SBM1902

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF SAN BENITO COUNTY

A supplement to the Hollister Free Lance

JANUARY 11, 2019

Off the Beaten Path Top 5 local outings for 2019

FAREWELL GRANADA P10 | VISIONS SHOP P12 | EARLY GRAFFITI P13

PATHS LESS TRAVELED Top San Benito County destinations for 2019

JANUARY 11, 2019

BY DEBRA ESKINAZI

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W

ith 2018 squarely in the rearview mirror, many might be reviewing things they wish they’d accomplished in the last year.

San Benito magazine has rounded up five of the best activities in and around San Benito County that are sure to please the adventurous wanderer. From hiking and history to spas and stargazing, there’s something for everyone’s bucket list.

Cal State Gem Mine Adopted as the state gem in 1985, benitoite is among the rarest in the world. The gemstone was first found in San Benito County in 1907 while James Couch was prospecting in the New Idria Mercury mining district.

Although the New Idria Mine is closed today, the Cal State Gem Mine located just miles south of the San Benito County line in Coalinga still offers the public a

chance to get their hands in this rare gem.

According to a 2015 Forbes article, benitoite is one of the top 12 most expensive gemstones in the world.

Cal State Gem Mine co-owner John Shriner says the stone fetches $8,000 per carat for a flawless round.

Shriner and his staff collect material from the local mine and invite people to participate in a real prospecting experience.

OUT AND ABOUT San Benito magazine has rounded up five fun not-to-be-missed outings to put at the top of your bucket list.

for, the indicators and stuff to get your on your feet, and then we give you a quart-size bag and anything you can fit into that bag you can keep,” he says. “There is not guarantee of finding benitoite, though the majority of people do.”

Shriner says the largest piece to come out of the mine in recent years was about 50 carats.

“That went home with the customer because it fit into the bag,” he says. “Fifty carats is probably only the size of half of your thumb.”

The fun of the hunt is the most exciting for guests says Shriner.

“Getting out and getting your hands dirty spending time with family,” he adds.

Cal State Gem Mine is located at 48242 Los Gatos Creek Rd, Coalinga, CA. For information and to make reservations visit: calstategemmine.com or call 559.287.4096.

Fremont Peak Observatory Opened in 1986, the Fremont Peak Observatory is located 11 miles south of San Juan Bautista in Fremont Peak State Park and offers scheduled viewings and educational programs.

Operated by the 100-member, all-volunteer Fremont Peak Observatory Association, the observatory has been a favorite stargazing destination for more than 30 years.

JANUARY 11, 2019

“We actually aren’t doing tours to the mine itself,” he says. “We pull material and we take it to an offsite location. We don’t look through it before we put it out there and we don’t salt the piles. We wanted it to be an actual experience.”

The mine is accepts groups of up to 15 and is open by reservation only. Panning outings begin at 9am and continue until 3pm.

Shriner says they show prospectors what to expect.

“We will show you what to look

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SAN BENITO BUCKET LIST

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JANUARY 11, 2019

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HOT SPRING Once bottled and sold in pharmacies, the water from these therapeutic springs runs between 102-106 degrees.

Perfect for amateur astronomers, the association offers evening multimedia presentations and permits guests to gaze at the night’s sky through a 30-inch Challenger Telescope.

According to state park history, more than 50 Ohlone villages were located in the area before their lives were interrupted by Spanish missionaries and soldiers. Named after army captain John. C. Fremont, the peak was first established as a fort in 1846, when the area was still part of Mexico.

Due to negligible conduct in war, Fremont was “arrested, court-martialed and found guilty of mutiny, disobedience.”

The charge of mutiny was later dropped, and Fremont went on to become a U.S. senator.

The 159-acre park off State Highway 156 offers day and overnight use including hiking, biking as well as tent and TV camping activities.

Mercey Hot Springs

pharmacies, the water from these therapeutic springs runs between 102 and 106 degrees.

In addition to the 20 outdoor hot tubs, Mercey Hot Springs offers its guests other therapeutic benefits at its eco-friendly retreat.

“We have a dry sauna and a warm swimming pool, which in the winter now is 90 degrees,” says assistant manager Jerzy Aust. “In the summer the pool is mid-70s to low 80s.”

Aust says the 144-acre property offers a great weekend trip with opportunities for hiking, bird watching and stargazing.

“There are also nine cabins here,” Aust adds. “Three of them are just finished recently.”

Besides the cabins, Mercey also has two airstream trailers available for rent and a house that sleeps seven.

For the eco-conscious, Mercey promises affordable luxury with an Earth-centered focus. The resort uses solar panels to provide nearly 80 percent of its power and ecofriendly soaps and cleaning products on the premises.

Mercey offers more than sights and soaks at its resort, providing massages and springtime yoga classes. Aust says they will be opening a cafe sometime in spring 2019.

Located along a former stagecoach route in Firebaugh, just east of San Benito County, Mercey Hot Springs is a tranquil getaway for those who appreciate the soak.

Once bottled and sold in

Visit Mercey Hot Springs at 62964 Little Panoche Road, Firebaugh, CA. For more information, call 209.826.3388 or visit merceyhotsprings.com. ➝6

For information and directions to Fremont Peak observatory, including its 2019 evening program schedule and weather notices, visit fpoa.net.

O& A

TERRARIUM WORKSHOP

Drop in to make and take a stylish terrarium filled with tillandsia at the GardenShoppe on Jan. 13.

OUT & ABOUT

HOLLISTER

TERRARIUM WORKSHOP Discover tillandsia air plants, one of the few plants that can actually live indoors with little light, at Terrariums and Tillandsias, an hourlong drop-in class where attendees will create their own terrarium. The terrarium, air plants, rocks, moss and sand are included in the $35 price, with various styles and colors available. Additional accessories are also available for purchase. Snacks are allowed, but no outside beverages are permitted. Sunday, Jan. 13, 2-4pm at the GardenShoppe, 364 Seventh St. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/y8ukrgtp.

HOLLISTER

BOOK SALE Support the Friends of the San Benito County Free Library at its monthly book sale. The Friends are a nonprofit organization made up of volunteers working to promote the welfare and growth of the library, enrich the library’s resources and more. At book sales, held the second Saturday of each month, you’ll find literary treasures and support a great cause. All sales support library programs. Saturday, Jan. 12, 10am-noon at 470 Fifth St. Visit sbcfriends.org.

SAN JOSE

THREE KINGS Head to the the 21st annual El Dia de los Tres Reyes Magos, a celebration of Latino culture. The Three Kings are widely celebrated by many cultures throughout the world. Enjoy live performances, tortilla making and tasting, sampling traditional Three Kings pastry, Rosca de Reyes, and Mexican arts and crafts including papel picado, crown-making and corn husk dolls. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 12-13, noon-4pm each day at Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, 180 Woz Way. Visit cdm.org.

MORGAN HILL

Head to Granada Theatre for a night of laughter, dinner and music.

Guests will enjoy the comedy of Johnny Peña, dinner and dessert by the live+love+léal culinary team and dance to the live music of the Chicano All Stars Band. Guests must be 21 or older to attend, and dress to impress with collared shirts and no ball caps. Enjoy a night of comedy Saturday, Jan. 12, 6-10pm at Granada Theatre, 17440 Monterey St. For tickets and more information, visit liveloveleal.com.

JANUARY 11, 2019

COMEDY NIGHT

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SAN BENITO BUCKET LIST

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TALUS ROCK Pinnacles offers 26,606 acres of nature for visitors to explore

in activities ranging from birding and hiking to camping.

Food for the

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JANUARY 11, 2019

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

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Audrey’s Finest Chocolate • Pastries and coffee Sliders - Burger BarChip Cookies and many • Burger sliders other Desserts Buffet Dinner for drop off • Buffet dinner for drop off Appetizer Party at Exceptional Breakfast • Appetizer party atGoodies Cafe 152 - BYOW

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Pinnacles National Park Established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Pinnacles National Park is a historic monument made of natural volcanic formations.

The 26,606-acre park is a natural wonderland for wildlife and adventurers.

Home to the endangered California condor, Pinnacles also is a haven for prairie and peregrine falcons and golden eagles.

Hikers and campers will find plentiful grasslands, varied chaparral and oak woodlands to walk about.

“Pinnacles is a beautiful, beautiful park,” said Beth Hudick head of interpretation and education in a May 2018 interview with San Benito magazine. “What I really love about it is the diversity. We have five different ecosystems with tremendous biodiversity. There’s so much to see here.”

The large park, with two entrances, caves and interesting flora and fauna is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, camping and birding.

Pinnacles National Park is located at 5000 Highway 146, Paicines, CA. For more information call 831.389.4485 or visit nps.gov/ pinn/index.htm.

San Juan Bautista Historic Walking Trail First occupied by the Mutsuns, San Juan Bautista was founded as a mission town in 1797, when Franciscans

monks settled there for its fertile countryside and ample supply of potential converts.

Though the Mutsun are long extinct, the town remains a microcosm of early California history with 49 historic sites densely packed into an area less than three-quarters of a square mile.

Beginning at the Mission San Juan Bautista, the self-guided walking trail offers residents and visitors an opportunity to explore Native American history as well as Spanish and Mexican influences into early 19th-century America. Structures include adobe, stone, wooden and western false front-style commercial architecture popularized after the California Gold Rush.

Visitors along the trail will find Plaza Hall, originally a single-story adobe building designed to house unmarried Indian girls of the mission. Later purchased and rebuilt by Angelo Zanetta, the building eventually became the family home.

Other notable structures and homes include, a town jail, livery, the Honeymoon House—formerly used as a bordello—the Rozas house, which is still used as a residence today, and the Castro/Breen Adobe, named after the Castro family, the home’s original owners, and later occupants the Breens—who were among the surviving members of the Donner party.

For more information visit, historicwalkingtrail.com or pick up a walking trail brochure at the Welcome Center, 319 Third St.

Campus Tour January 24, 10:30 am

Join us for a tour and stay for a preview show!

Preschool – 12th grade

CAIS & WASC accredited Nonsectarian Independent, nonprofit school 355-acre campus among a redwood forest and hilltop meadows • Bus transportation available

408-847-2717 MountMadonnaSchool.org

JANUARY 11, 2019

• • • • •

the musical

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O& A CALENDAR

JANUARY 11, 2019

ECOFARM CONFERENCE

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Join the 39th annual EcoFarm Conference, “Resilience is Fertile,” the nation’s premier organic and regenerative farming conference. EcoFarm is a prime networking and educational hub for ecologically minded farmers, ranchers, and all who work to support their success in growing a healthy food system and world. The 2019 conference features more than 70 workshops, intensives, keynotes, farm tours, an exhibitor marketplace, tastings and more. Also enjoy a seed swap, live entertainment and an organic culinary fair. Wednesday, Jan. 23-Saturday, Jan. 26 in Pacific Grove. For more information, conference schedule and registration, visit eco-farm.org.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA FIRE SAFETY Join the San Benito Fire Safe Council at its

Monthly Business Meeting.

Fire safe councils are grassroots community-based organizations sharing the objective of making California's communities less

vulnerable to wildfire. The San Benito Fire Safe Council works with the Community Foundation of San Benito County to make promote fire safety. This monthly meeting is open to the public, and attendees can learn how to make their homes safer. Thursday, Jan. 17, 5-6:30pm at San Juan Fire Department, 24 Polk St. For information, visit sbfsc.org.

Saturday and Sunday, Apr. 13 and 14. Applications are being accepted from local artists, crafts people and other creatives in all media who wish to participate at their own site or at one of the many group sites available in Hollister, San Juan Bautista and Aromas. Applications are due Friday, Jan. 18, 5pm. For applications and information, visit sanbenitoarts.org.

SAN BENITO COUNTY

GILROY

ARTIST INVITATION San Benito County Arts Council invites artists to join the 2019 Open Studios Art Tour. Open Studios is a self-guided tour of artists’ studios taking place throughout San Benito County

PHOTO EXHIBITION The social issue photography exhibition “Homeless Voices” features the work of Kirti Bassendine on view at the Gilroy Center for the Arts through Jan. 26, with a reception Saturday, Jan. 12, 2-4pm. This

LUNAR ECLIPSE

The entire family is invited to observe the full lunar eclipse with ghe San Jose Astronomical Association and Open Space Authority. View the eclipse through telescopes and binoculars with everything needed to view the eclipse provided.

Dress in warm layers and note that rain will cancel. Sunday, Jan. 20, 7-10:30pm at Little Uvas Open Space Preserve, Morgan Hill. Directions provided upon registration. Space is limited and registration by the number of cars each group is required. For information and to register, visit openspaceauthority.org.

wines from the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail. Celebrate Gilroy Restaurant Month through Jan. 31 throughout Gilroy. For a full list of participating restaurants, visit gilroyrestaurantmonth.com.

RESTAURANT MONTH Celebrate California Restaurant Month in Gilroy as the artistry of the city’s restaurants is displayed and feasting is made even more accessible than ever.

Guests are invited to relax and treat themselves to great dining as Gilroy restaurants offer “Fit and Sip” specials all month long, pairing lighter foods with local

SPACE ODDITIES Join the Wings of History AIr Museum as it presents a special event on the “Oddities of Being in Space.”

Learn about the oddities that are a surprise, and sometimes very different, from life on Earth at this approximately one-hour presentation. Also enjoy a space launch simulation demonstrated with a water-powered bottle

SAN MARTIN

Enjoy a reading of The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit at the kick off of the admission free storytime and craft series at the National Steinbeck Center’s newly renovated store, Pigasus Bookshop. Children of all ages are welcome, but storytime is geared toward children between the ages of four and eight and children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver.

Tuesday, Jan. 15, 4-5pm at National Steinbeck Center, 1 Main St, Salinas.

For information, call 831.775.4721.

rocket in the museum courtyard, weather permitting. Saturday, Jan. 12, 1pm at Wings of History Air Museum, Museum Meeting Room, 12777 Murphy Ave. General admission is $5, and all attendees must reserve a seat prior to the event. For more information and to register, email museum1903@gmail.com.

in balance and rest. After yoga, head to the tasting room and try reserve wines. Dress for the outdoors and bring a yoga mat and water bottle. Sunday, Jan. 13, 9:30-10:30am at Clos LaChance, 1 Hummingbird Lane. For more information visit clos.com.

WINERY YOGA Experience beautiful views and lush vineyards while enjoying outdoor yoga at Clos LaChance, a certified, sustainable wine grower. Participants will breath and open, gently stretch and unwind, move through flow and twists and become grounded

VIRTUAL LAWYERS Virtual Lawyers in the Library will be offering free legal advice at Morgan Hill Library Virtual Legal Advice Clinic. Video and internet technology will connect participants for a 20-minute legal consultation with an attorney.

Advice will be offered on ➝ 11

MORGAN HILL JANUARY 11, 2019

exhibit shows how the homeless population lives in order to survive and how this social issue can no longer be ignored. 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. Visit kirtibassendine.com.

CHILDREN’S STORYTIME

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THEATER

CURTAIN CALL San Benito Stage Company holds its Members Choice Awards Jan. 12.

Final Bow JANUARY 11, 2019

San Benito Stage Company bids farewell to Granada Theater

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s celebrities begin their walks down Hollywood red carpets, the local actors of San Benito Stage Company are doing the same.

San Benito Stage Company (SBSC) is holding its annual SBSC Members Choice Awards on Saturday, Jan. 12 at the Granada Theater, where it will honor performers and productions from the company’s 2018 season.

For these local celebrities, however,

it will be their last walk down the Granada’s carpets of a different color.

“Our lease at the Granada is up,” says SBSC Board Vice President, Derek Barnes. “So we wanted to host our Members Choice show as a way to celebrate our last season with our members, actors, and community members.”

SBSC Members Choice Awards will be given out for actors in the youth, teen and adult categories, as well as best costume, show, sets, props, choreography, and director

(vocal, music, and stage). Awards special to SBSC will also be given out, in recognition of its volunteers, businesses, and scholarship recipients.

Guests will also get a sneak-peek into the 2019 show line-up, hear special announcements from the SBSC Board, and have an opportunity to become members of SBSC. Future prospects of San Benito Stage Company will also be discussed, as Barnes assures there is a plan in place for 2019 (and future) shows.

By JENNY ARBIZU

"We have secured a number of venues in Hollister to help us continue putting on quality shows and events," Barnes says.

San Benito Stage Company invites past performers, volunteers and audiences to its Members Choice Awards on Saturday, Jan. 12 at the Granada Theatre, 336 Fifth Street in Hollister. Doors open at 6:30pm where dessert will be served, followed by the show’s start at 7pm. For more information, call 831.636.0122.

O& A CALENDAR

9 coffee. For information and to register, visit girlsrock-mtb.com.

BINGO NIGHT Enjoy a fun night of bingo weekly on Friday nights.

Early bird games begin at 6pm, regular games at 6:30pm, and flash games are available with prizes ranging up to $1,199. Also enjoy the snack bar with tasty specials each week. Baler Bingo proceeds support student athletes and Haybaler athletic teams at San Benito High School. Friday, Jan. 18, 4-10pm at Baler Boosters, 221 Fifth St, Hollister. Entrance is located on Wentz Alley. For more information, visit balerboosters. org/balerbingo.

ROSE CLASS

Those who love plants are invited to learn about rose pruning practices and procedures at a class taught by ARS Certified Consulting Rosarians. Also learn about pruners and tools, safety, integrated pest management, fertilizers and more. Attendees are welcome to bring their own rose plants for pruning and to receive additional tips on proper care. Saturday, Jan. 19, 10-11:30am at Alladin Nursery & Gift Shop, 2905 Freedom Blvd, Watsonville. Visit alladinnursery.com.

EVENTS GIRLS ROCK Girls Rock Women’s Mountain Biking invites women riders of all levels to a ride at Fort Ord hosted

by Monterey Off Road Cycling Association. Participants can expect pre-ride coffee and breakfast bites and a raffle featuring fabulous prizes.

Also, be sure to bring food and drink along for a post-ride tailgate party. Sunday, Jan. 13, 9am-2pm at the Fort Ord National Monument, Creekside Terrace Trailhead Parking Lot, Marina. Please note that parking is limited and carpools are encouraged, E-bikes are not permitted at Fort Ord, and attendees are asked to bring along a reusable cup for morning

MISSION 10 RACE Register now for the 36th annual Mission 10 Race, sponsored by Hollister Rotary Club. With four different races, including a one mile kids fun run, TAC Distance Certified Half Marathon and 10 miles and a 5k, there is something for everyone. Each race will run through the scenic Anzar Hills through rural farm land 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. Join the 2019 Mission 10 Race Saturday, Jan. 26 at Mission Plaza, Second St, San Juan Bautista. Register now at tinyurl.com/y9973eb6.

FINDING RAPTORS Explore the backroads of San Benito County with the Sequoia Audubon Society in search of raptors. Search for

CRAB FEED Eat up! Come to a fun night of all-you-can eat crab and a raffle drawing at the Operation Freedom Paws (OFP) Annual Crab Feed.

Enjoy crab, pasta, salad and garlic bread with all proceeds benefiting OFP. This non-profit organization matches disabled veterans, adults and children with rescued dogs and trains them together. Head to the Crab Feed Saturday, Jan. 26, 6-9pm at Old City Hall Restaurant, 7400 Monterey St, Gilroy. For tickets and more information, visit operationfreedompaws.org.

WHALEFEST MONTEREY Celebrate the return of gray whales to the Monterey Bay during Whalefest Monterey. This family-friendly event features live entertainment, face painting, educational exhibits, historic walking tours, chalk art and much more. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 26-27, 10am-5pm both days at Monterey Old Fisherman’s Wharf, 1 Fishermans Wharf, Monterey.

For more information, visit tinyurl. com/yazzhdqr.

COMEDY THEATER Save the date for Pintello Comedy Theater’s production of The Ladies Foursome. Experience 18 holes of friendship, secrets and laughter in this funny, fast-paced, heartwarming story, inspired

by Norm Foster’s popular play The Foursome. Sunday, Jan. 27, 2pm at Pintello Comedy Theater, 8191 Swanston Lane, Gilroy. For information and tickets, visit pintellocomedy.com.

JANUARY 11, 2019

a variety of subjects including immigration, civil law, divorce, child custody, consumer law, elder issues and small claims court. Tuesday, Jan. 15, 6:308pm at Morgan Hill Library, 660 W. Main Ave. Space is limited; for appointments, visit probonoproject.org/virtual-clinics.

DANCE PARTY Head to Clos LaChance for an After Dark Dance Party. Enjoy the music as the lights are dimmed, the sound is turned up and Hackjammers performs all evening long. Pizza prepared

by Chef Lou will be available for purchase. Please note outside food is not permitted, and attendees must be 21 or over. No tickets are required; just join the party Saturday, Jan. 19, 6-11pm at Clos LaChance Wines, 1 Hummingbird Lane, San Martin. Visit clos.com.

golden eagles, ferruginous hawks, prairie falcons and more on this Sequoia Audubon Field Trip.

Participants are asked to bring along lunch, something to drink and a scope if they have one.

Please note: Heavy rain will cancel this event. Saturday, Jan. 26, 8:30am-3pm. Meet at Immaculate Conception Catholic Community, 7290 Airline Highway, Tres Pinos. For more information, visit sequoia-audubon.org.

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SHOPPING

Jenny Arbizu

COLLECTIBLES Shoppers can find unique items at Visions including angels, quality candles and home decor.

Visions A store for all seasons • Certified Invisalign Orthodontist • Individually tailored financial plans

JANUARY 11, 2019

• Designer, invisible & small standard braces in a rainbow of colors

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Invisible Braces

DR. TOMMY TONG

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST MORGAN HILL • 779-4169 GILROY • 842-0314 370 W. DUNNE AVE. #6 7880 WREN AVE. #C132

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long Third Street, San Juan Bautista’s cozy, old-town main avenue, locals and tourists alike can find themselves in front of famous Mexican restaurants and unique gift shops.

One of these gift shops stands out among the others, especially during the winter months and holiday shopping season. Known for its holiday-themed decor and items, Visions of Christmas has captivated shoppers for 32 years.

But don’t be misguided by the store’s name: Visions is revered for its collectible angels and quality candles, and shoppers can also find unique items such as its Disney-themed cookie jars, vintage

By JENNY ARBIZU

jewelry (bracelets, brooches, necklaces and earrings) and home decor.

Owner Barbara Gonzales says even though the Christmas items were once a part of the store’s draw, its theme has now expanded.

“We carry all-holiday items, all year-round,” says Gonzales, who is considering changing the store’s name from Visions of Christmas to just Visions soon.

Visions of Christmas is located at 108 Third St. in San Juan Bautista and is open Monday through Sunday from noon-5pm, with extended hours during the holidays. For more information, call 831.623.2115.

GETTING OUT

Immense skies

Ron Erskine

MONUMENTAL GRAFFITI Of the thousands of marks left on Independence Rock,

many have faded but many remain.

By RON ERSKINE

P

ause for a moment and truly consider the hardships endured by early settlers traveling west.

When set against the modern conveniences we enjoy, it is staggering. Exchange turning on the faucet for dragging two buckets up from the river. Instead of turning a knob on the stove, gather some wood and start a fire.

Every housekeeping task was monumental, and it was done after a 20-mile day guiding a yoke of oxen tied to a heavy Conestoga wagon.

As distant as that long ago time

may seem to us, there is a place where a careful visitor can spend an intimate moment among those early settlers: Independence Rock.

Each spring, after the muddy plains firmed up, settlers set out from St. Joseph or Independence, Missouri and headed up the Blue River to the Platte. Where the river forked, the route followed the North Platte until, in central Wyoming, it jumped to the timid Sweetwater River trickling down from the continental divide just ahead.

In a treeless sea of scrub and sagebrush, the round profile of

JANUARY 11, 2019

Settlers carved out a name at Independence Rock

Independence Rock protrudes like the back of a massive whale. If your wagon train was on schedule, you reached Independence Rock around the Fourth of July, Independence Day. Settlers paused here to rest, refresh their stock and perhaps carve their names on the rock.

The landscape at Independence Rock remains immense and solitary, allowing a present-day visitor to share the same delicate vulnerability that those early settlers must have felt. The 27 acres of rounded and gently sloped granite invite the scramble-prone visitor to explore now as they did then.

Around the base, but especially up top, names and dates, etched in elegantly serifed fonts, are everywhere. Of the thousands of marks left on the rock, many have faded but many remain.

T.H. Armstrong, July 12, 1862; W.L. Cannon, 1858; J.L Holland, 1862; J.L. Wallis. Wouldn’t it be nice to buy each of these fellows a beer, sit down and just listen? Tell me, where are you from? Why did you come? Where are you going?

And a question that could only be answered years later: How did it all turn out?

Sitting under the immense Wyoming sky on top of Independence Rock, the answers to those questions are left to the imagination. But one feels an intimate and palpable connection with the fellow who left that mark right there.

What an adventure and a challenge he and his family undertook!

Independence Rock isn’t handy to the traveler. It lies 20 miles east of Muddy Gap on the road between Rawlins and Casper, Wyoming.

But 170 years ago, it was on the main drag and 300,000 people passed this spot on the way to California and Oregon, each with their own story.

If your wanderings take you to Independence Rock, stop by and spend a moment beside a long-gone adventurer who passed this way.

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Beautiful End-Unit with Gated Entry PARADISE ~ Luxury beachfront 1Br/1Ba condo on the Monterey Bay w/city-light & ocean views.

Recent renovations: custom cabinets, hardwood floors, granite. Amenities: pools, fitness club, spa.

Make This Your Year-Round Vacation Home! $598,000

Monterey

(831) 648-7271

Price Reduction to $740,000

RIDGEMARK GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB LIVING WITH ACCEPTIONAL VIEWS! Located right on the fairway. 2550 sq ft, single level home with 3 bedrooms/3 baths on 10,000 sf lot.

Fresh exterior paint & new exterior light fixtures.

New flooring. Formal LR and, DR. Large FR with fireplace. Spacious and private master suite with large sitting area overlooking the fairway. Oversized garage with seperate roll up door for golf cart.

2 YEAR NEW HOME!

Offered at $679,500

3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home. Great location within the subdivision with large private patio and attached 2 car garage. Attractive and durable laminate flooring, granite counter tops, spacious master suite and indoor laundry room. Within walking distance to shopping, restaurants and schools.

Offered at $499,900 Call Augie or Calla

Augie CalBRE #01821492 Calla CalBRE #00966075

831.524.5400 office: 831.637.8400 www.bertao.com augie@bertao.com

611 B STREET OPEN SATURDAY 12-3

THIS HOUSE IS A MUST SEE!

Welcome Home Carmel-By-The-Sea POINT LOBOS VIEWS ~ Charming 3Br/2Ba on spacious corner lot. Refreshed & move-in ready!

Many improvements throughout offering a great opportunity & great location. Cheery open concept.

SPACIOUS LIVING

Great 5 bedroom home with 4100+ square feet. Fresh interior paint. Newly refinished hardwood floors. Bedroom and full bath on main level. Master suite with separate retreat.

Elegant formal living room/dining room area.

Large family room with fireplace and built-in cabinetry. Spacious kitchen with center island will delight any gourmet cook. 3 car garage.

Large backyard area. Within walking distance to high school, middle and elementary schools.

Open Sat 1-4pm Hosted by Jose Vargas (831) 524-1559 Open Sun 1-4pm Listed by Charlene King (831) 801-5464

Fabulous 4Br/2.5Ba on corner lot w/many custom features like no other! Backyard is all yours to create—a great space for pool & outdoor kitchen w/easy access for storage.

PLENTY OF ROOM FOR AN RV & POSSIBILITY OF AN ADDITIONAL LIVING UNIT. Price of ownership is evident. . Inviting & light living room w/ high ceilings & easy-to-care-for tile flooring. Kitchen has granite counters, S/S appliances & plenty of counter space for the chef in the family. The Master Suite is an owner’s dream! Kitchen & baths have upgraded sinks, fixtures & lighting.

500 Chardonnay Way, Hollister Offered for $620,000

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 534 Abrego Street, Monterey (831) 648Ͳ7271 237 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley (831) 438Ͳ8400 13117 Highway 9, Boulder Creek (831) 338Ͳ2125 or 338Ͳ2184

3 bd, 2 baths. 1699 S.F. Charming older home in a great location! Ready to move in! Recently painted inside.

New flooring throughout.

New kitchen countertops and appliances. This is on a large lot with a detached shed.

It will not last long.

Asking: $489,800 40 JOES LANE

1843 S.F., 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath Ridgemark townhome 2 master bedroom suites 2 ½ bath. Inner court entry, new laminated water proof floors in kitchen, nook w/access to deck. Laundry room w/extra cabinets. New carpets thru out, Formal Dining Room, and sunken Living Room with fireplace. 1843 S.F. of living area, 2 car garage. You will love Ridgemark Golf and Country Club. Clubhouse with full amenities, full restaurant, bar and pro-shop, Meeting rooms, a resort at your fingertips. No area can compete with our weather conditions. SOLD “AS IS”… Life will be more fun!

Asking: $445,800

REAL ESTATE APARTMENT/ CONDO RENTALS

BELLAGIO VILLAS 2 Bedroom apartments starting at $2150.

Pool. Park like setting Contemporary landscaping.

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

FINISHED LOTS

HOLLISTER HOME RENTALS

HOME RENTALS 4BD/2BA $2,950 Corner lot house in Gilroy Available NOW

HOLLISTER-RENTAL-PROPERTIES.COM

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

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

$1,800 $2,500 $2,000 $1,550 $2,600 $2,800 $2,500 $2,600 $2,600 $4,400

2/1

$1,450

2/1

$1,300

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

airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802

HOLLISTER APARTMENTS

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA APARTMENTS OFFICE SPACES AVAILABLE

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

Contact Marilyn Ferreire, BRE 00409787 831.635.6700

2 Executive Suites

in Adam Square Business Complex 330 Tres Pinos Road $325/Month $325 Deposit

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

northpointebusinesscenter.com

831.637.4297

330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1

HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES

831.637.7337

For more information, call

831.637.1691

Put Your Real Estate Marketing in the

Right Hands Online • Print • Email Call us for the marketing expertise you deserve!

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

ALWAYS CONSULT A REALTOR

Redwood Fencing Chain Link • Decks Arbors • Hole Drilling

408.279.8036

408.842.0260 831.726.2002

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

Lic. #606051

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

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

JANUARY 11, 2019

WHEN BUYING OR SELLING A HOME

Lic# 429006

HOME & GARDEN SERVICES

Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured

408.842.6400

www.pivetticompany.com

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