SVM1834

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF MORGAN HILL, GILROY & SAN MARTIN

AUGUST 24, 2018

Gilroy Gold A supplement to the Gilroy Dispatch & Morgan Hill Times

Linda Pulido and her winning team P4

CASINO NIGHT P10 | GRIGNOLINO ROSÉ P17 | HIDDEN SIERRAS P18

890 Sunset Drive, Building A, Suite 2-A

930 Sunnyslope Road, Suite C-4

AUGUST 24, 2018

Our highly skilled, comprehensive team of orthopedic specialists and physical therapists use the most advanced options available for joint repair, joint replacement and physical therapy.

2

Both specialty centers are programs of:

www.hazelhawkins.com

Contributed

4

GOOD FIGHT Gilroy’s Linda Pulido and her team took home

the gold in Lisbon, Portugal.

MAGAZINE

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

10

Publisher

Dan Pulcrano Associate Publisher

Jeannette Close Editor

Debra Eskinazi Calendar Editor

Tia Sundberg Contributing Writers

18 4

Cover Story

9

Crush

Jenny Arbizu, Wallace Baine, Janet Enright, Ron Erskine, Kimberly Ewertz, Susan Rife, Colleen Grzan, Cheryl Huguenor, Emanuel Lee, Laura Ness, Kate Russell, Neera Siva Advertising Account Executives

Kelly Been, Carrie Bonato, Vanessa Ashford, Scott Harvey Design Director

Kara Brown Production Operations Manager

Sean George

10 Community

Editorial Production Manager

12 Calendar

Published by New SV Media Inc., Gilroy, CA Entire contents © 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form prohibited without publisher’s written permission.

18 Getting Out

TO PLACE AN AD Email:

advertising@newsvmedia.com Phone:

20 Real Estate

408.842.9404

AUGUST 24, 2018

17 Wine

Katherine Manlapaz

3

Training worl AUGUST 24, 2018

FINE FIGHTERS Five athletes at Pulido’s Pro-Fitness Gym headed to Portugal to participate in July’s Global Stick and Blade Alliance competition.

4

Pulido’s Pro-Fitness Gym athletes earn five spots in Portugal BY KIMBERLY EWERTZ

T

he location was Lisbon, Portugal, and the event was the Global Stick and Blade Alliance (GBSA) competition, where opposing competitors battled hand-to-hand in the hopes of winning a world championship title.

ld champions Contributed

Pro-Fitness at 30 Third St, is also a recent inductee into the Grandmaster Martial Arts Hall of Fame, but she wasn’t the only Gilroy delegate. Edwin Lopez and Dylan Lazaro, both 13, joined her. Dylan’s mom, Delyn Noir, Lazaro, rounded out the four-member team.

Pulido believes practicing martial arts instills confidence. In addition to eskrima, her gym offers Tae Kwon Do and numerous other

forms of martial arts, including fitness training.

“It teaches you about not giving up,” Pulido said.

For both of the boys, their journey began eight years ago when they joined Pulido’s gym to learn Tae Kwon Do. “I wanted to start martial arts because at first I thought it would be fun,” Dylan said.

Edwin’s parents encouraged their son to join because they

thought it would be “a good fit for discipline and self-defense.”

The boys, both seventh-graders at South Valley Middle School where Noir teaches, were eager to sign up for eskrima classes when Pulido offered them for the first time last year. Later in the year each of the boys competed in the Regional GSBA contest in Union City.

“For Regionals, since it was my first completion, I was kind of ➝6 worried because I didn’t

AUGUST 24, 2018

The GSBA championships is the World Series for competitors of the martial art of eskrima, the national sport of the Philippines. Eskrima emphasizes weapon-based fighting using sticks, knives and bladed weapons.

This year Team USA sent a 45-member contingent to the competition, which took place July 18-22.

Team member Linda Pulido, owner of Pulido’s

5

Located in Historic Downtown Gilroy

PULIDO’S PRO-FITNESS GYM

5

• 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 Open daily 8:00am for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 8am-1pm 7400 Monterey Street, Gilroy • 408.842.3454 www.oldcityhall.biz

CALLING ALL SINGERS Contributed

FIRST PLACE Owner of Pulido’s Pro-Fitness Gym, Linda Pulido is a

recent inductee into the Grandmaster Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

All singers welcome Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Bass REHEARSALS BEGIN

WHEN:

Monday, August 27 7:15 pm

AUGUST 24, 2018

WHERE:

6

Christ Fellowship Church 2066 San Benito Street, Hollister

FOR MORE INFORMATION 408-497-4958 • orianachorale.com

N AUD O ITIO N REQ UIRE S D

know how others were going to be,” Edwin said. “Then I won and I felt pretty accomplished.”

He followed the Regionals with another first-place win at the Nationals competition in Wisconsin.

“I had a bit more of an offensive style; that worked really well,” Edwin said. “My trainer (Pulido) said if I just believe in myself and do it and train enough and have overall confidence, that I can achieve it.”

Dylan, who recently earned his black belt in Tae Kwan Do, followed right behind Edwin, coming in second in both competitions.

Those wins secured the boys a place in this year’s GSBA

Worldwide competition. Eskrima, which shares similarities with Tae Kwan Do, adds the use of weapons, elevating the skill level of the sport.

To excel in this particular form of martial arts you have to train, and train hard.

“Being able to keep your stamina, keeping your stick as fast as possible, hitting with power, moving, dodging, making sure you’re not getting hit, that’s the key,” Pulido said.

“Technique is also important because technique and speed create the power at the end of the stick; it’s like a whip.”

Pulido’s training more than paid off as the four Gilroy competitors took gold in each of their categories

Contributed

TEAM USA This year a 45-member contingent was sent to the Global Stick and Blade Alliance competition in Lisbon, Portugal.

also placed gold in a third category, one she had no prior training in. Pulido had a last-minute cancellation in the team event, Chicks with Sticks, and drafted Noir for the sparring competition.

“I went there just to shoot for two medals, and then I come home with three medals,” Noir said. “It took me to a different, higher level of self-empowerment. I was just amazed and pleasantly surprised.”

Noir was extremely proud of her son’s accomplishments and also those of her teammate, Edwin.

“Edwin is from east Gilroy and he represents east Gilroy, and a lot of people in the community...sponsored him,” Noir said, adding, “I’m just so proud that we three (are) all world champions and we’re all representing east Gilroy, because we come from South Valley Middle School. So, we’re proud world champions, but we’re also proud Tigers as well.”

“I just want to show the world and everyone, that no matter who you are, you can achieve anything if you just believe in yourself and if you believe, you can do it,” Edwin said.

AUGUST 24, 2018

and weight divisions, proving what Pulido had always told her students. “The training is the hard part, not the competition.”

“She was right,” Noir said.

Pulido placed first place in all five categories she competed in: single stick, double stick, Chicks with Sticks, padded single and open division.

“I maintained all five,” Pulido said with a grin.

Dylan competed in the Junior Boys and Girls Single and Double Stick Lightweight categories.

“I fought against two people in the same division for the single and double,” Dylan said. “It was Germany and Norway, and I came in first in both.”

Edwin competed in the Juniors Boys and Girls Single and Double Stick Heavyweight category.

“My parents were really proud,” Edwin said, adding that they told him, “We can call you champ now.”

“These guys were amazing, and I was so proud of them and everyone complimented them,” Pulido said.

Noir took first place in both single and double stick competitions in her weight division. She

7

8 AUGUST 24, 2018

O& A

CHILL TIME Relax

at Solis Winery with wine and cigars on Saturday, Aug. 25.

OUT & ABOUT

GILROY

CIGARS & WINE Cigar aficionados and wine enthusiasts are invited to Solis Winery for Cigars Under the Stars. Enjoy an evening of relaxation and conversation as Solis wine and port selections are combined with two special cigars.

Saturday, Aug. 25, 7-10pm at Solis Winery, 3920 Hecker Pass Road.

Space is limited. Visit soliswinery.com.

SANTA CRUZ

BEACH BOARDWALK Enjoy Free Friday Night Bands on the Beach at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk as the legendary Starship featuring Mickey Thomas hits the stage. The show will feature an expanded set list that includes hits from Jefferson Airplane, Jefferson Starship and well known favorites from Starship including “We Built This CIty” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.” Enjoy two free shows Friday, Aug. 24 at 6:30pm and 8:30pm at the Boardwalk’s Beach Bandstand. 400 Beach Street. Visit beachboardwalk.com.

GILROY

BARN DANCE Enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner, entertainment, silent auction and raffle and help raise funds for a cause at the Gilroy Compassion Center Dinner and Barn Dance Fundraiser. Attendees will receive instruction in Western-style line dance. Proceeds benefit programs serving the Gilroy homeless. Saturday, Aug. 25, 6:30-10:30pm at the Gilroy Compassion Center, 3465 Susie Lane. This is an 18-and-over event. Visit tinyurl.com/ybf9emfl.

HOLLISTER

QUEEN TRIBUTE AUGUST 24, 2018

Relive the magic of the band Queen as Queen Nation, a Tribute to Queen takes the stage at Hollister Concerts at Pepper Tree Ranch. Queen Nation is a tribute act with a mission to pay homage to the golden age of Queen.

Opening performance by the Ultimate Stones Tribute to the Rolling Stones. Barbecue items, beer, wine and soda will be available for purchase.

Saturday, Aug. 25, 6:30-9:30pm at Pepper Tree Ranch, 500 John Smith Road. For information and tickets, visit hollisterconcerts.com.

9

COMMUNITY

TEXAS-HOLD-EM San Benito Stage Company hosts Casino Night theater benefit Saturday, Aug 25.

Double down on theater AUGUST 24, 2018

San Benito Stage Company hosts second annual Casino Night

10

W

hat happens in Hollister, stays in Hollister.

At least when fund-

raising is involved.

And it doesn’t hurt when casino games are, either.

San Benito Stage Company (SBSC) is hosting its second annual Casino Night on Saturday, Aug. 25 at the Odd Fellows Hall. Proceeds from the event go back to the SBSC to provide quality community

theater events and productions, and to encourage the growth of the organization’s offerings.

San Benito Stage Company, a non-profit organization, will attain gypsy status in February 2019 when its lease at the Granada Theatre is up.

At last year’s Casino Night at the Granada Theatre, SBSC Board Vice President Derek Barnes says, the company made about $5,000 in profit and sold more than 100 tickets.

“We’re hoping to improve on it this year, thanks to a more spacious location,” he says of the event’s move to the Odd Fellows Hall.

In a casino-style setting, guests can expect an array of gaming tables, a full bar and local wines.

Raffle prizes and silent auction items (A’s box tickets, karate lessons, dance lessons and more) will be available to bid on. Savory appetizers and dishes will be served, and two live performances are scheduled.

By JENNY ARBIZU

Presale tickets for the event are $35 and can be purchased at brownpapertickets.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $40. Raffle and drink tickets as well as silent auction items will be available for purchase.

SBSC’s Casino Night is Saturday, Aug. 25, 6-10pm at the IOOF Hall, 330 Fourth Street in Hollister. For more information, visit sanbenitostage.org, facebook.com/ sanbenitostagecompany, or call 831.636.0122.

AUGUST 24, 2018

191 San Felipe Road, Suite P • Hollister

11

O& A CALENDAR

AUGUST 24, 2018

BLUES FESTIVAL

12

All ages are welcome at the Second Annual Morgan Hill Blues Festival featuring a family friendly atmosphere and full day of Blues. This free event highlights local artist and headliner Maxx Cabello Jr, and great performances by Ladee Chico, Henrik Martin, Alvin Draper, Kaye Bohler, Burnin Vernon Davis, Tony John & The Lucy Street Project and AJ Crawdaddy. Coolers and outside food and alcohol are prohibited; food and drink will be available to purchase onsite with proceeds supporting the festival. Saturday, Sept. 1, 10am-10pm at Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center Amphitheater Stage, 17000 Monterey St, Morgan Hill. Visit tinyurl.com/2018MHBluesFest.

GILROY COMEDY THEATER Don’t miss Pintello Comedy Theater’s production of the comedic

thriller Hypnosis! by David Tristram. Watch as washed-up hypnotist Gordo gets a strange proposition from a cop and sets his sights on the cop’s wife,

leaving everyone guessing who will end up under a spell. Friday, Aug. 24 and Saturday, Aug. 25, 8-10pm at Pintello Comedy Theater, 8191 Swanston Lane.

For information and tickets, visit pintellocomedy.com.

TEEING OFF The Knights of Columbus invites the community to join in on its second annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser.

Enjoy single player or multiplayer team packages, contests, raffles and prizes, a barbecue dinner and more with all proceeds going to scholarships and local charities.

Saturday, Aug. 25, Registration at 7:30am, Tee Off at 9am at the Gilroy Municipal Golf Course,

2695 Hecker Pass Road. For information and registration, visit kofc2469.org/golf2018.

FAMILY CAMP The whole family is invited to camp overnight at Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park for Labor Day Weekend.

Campers will enjoy dinner, a movie, free popcorn and overnight camping in South County Picnic Grove on Saturday night and breakfast, a barbecue lunch and admission to the theme park the following day. Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 1, 4pm-Sept. 2, 6pm at Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, 3050 Hecker Pass Highway.

For tickets and information, visit gilroygardens.org.

Provided

AROMAS DAY

DISCOVER ARTS

MORGAN HILL

at the final Morgan Hill Summer Fun in the Park event for summer 2018. The entire family will enjoy activities including face painting, animal balloons, children’s games, music and more. All activities are free. Enjoy summer fun in the park Thursday, Aug. 30, 6-8pm at Galvan Park, 17666 Crest Ave. For more information, call 408.782.0008.

All are welcome to step back in time to experience the small town celebration of Aromas Day. Enjoy free admission, a home-grown parade, live music, food and vendor booths and the always popular Garage Sale Alley. Aromas Day also features a country-style breakfast, beautiful handmade Art in the Park with the Aromas Hills Artisans, classic cars on display and a kids zone full of fun and activities. Sunday, Aug. 26, 7am - 4pm on Carpenteria Road, Aromas. For information and schedule of events, visit aromasday.com.

MYSTERIOUS OAKS Learn about some of the oldest and most majestic living beings in Santa Clara Valley at “Meet Our Mysterious Oaks.” Join Open Space Authority on a shady walk through the oak woodland and discover the inner workings and incredible importance of these trees Thursday, Aug. 30, 8am-noon at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, 550 Palm Ave. Registration is free and space is limited. For more information and to register, visit openspaceauthority.org.

PARK FUN Join the festivities

WATSONVILLE DOG HIKE Play a nice game of Follow the Leader and venture out to enjoy the outdoors with that special canine companion at the Follow the Leader Dog Hike at Mt. Madonna. Wear layered clothes

and sturdy shoes. Saturday, Aug. 25, 7-9pm at Mt. Madonna County Park, meet a ranger and her canine companion at the Redwood Grove Group Area, 7850 Pole Line Road. For information, call 408.842.2341.

HOLLISTER CANOPY COURSE WEEKEND Retired Army Ranger Greg Windmiller, national champion, world medalist and multiple record holder in canopy piloting, will conduct a Canopy Course Weekend at Skydive Hollister.

Saturday’s Essential Skills Courses feature a canopy course, packing class and B License test; ➝ 15

AUGUST 24, 2018

POLITICAL PRESENTATION Join speaker Steven Pifer, former ambassador to the Ukraine, as the American Association of University Women presents “What Does Russia Want? How Should America Respond?” Pifer is a retired Foreign Service officer with more than 25 years in the State Department, and is currently a nonresident senior fellow and arms control and non-proliferation initiative director at the Brookings Institution’s Center on the United States and Europe, with a focus on nuclear arms control in the Ukraine and Russia. Tuesday, Aug. 28, 6:30-9pm at Morgan Hill

Library, 660 W. Main Ave. Visit sccl.org.

Join City of Gilroy Recreation and Rotary Clubs of Gilroy at the Kids Discover Arts event. Children ages 5 to 11 years will enjoy 18 different workshops and hands-on art activities conducted by local art professionals.

Children should wear paint-friendly clothing, apply plenty of sunscreen and be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, please no pets or strollers. Saturday, Aug. 25, 9am-1pm outdoors in the grassy Paseo south of the Gilroy Library, 350 W. Sixth St, Gilroy. Visit cityofgilroy.org.

13

14 AUGUST 24, 2018

▪ ▪

O& A CALENDAR

13

NATURAL SCIENCE

Help the Open Space Authority learn how life on the Open Space Preserves changes over time by collecting valuable scientific research data on a smartphone or tablet. Join OSA staff and docents for a fun and engaging citizen science experience and learn how to identify and catalog plants and animals in the iNaturalist application. Sunday, Aug. 26, 8-11am at Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 4289 Casa Loma Road, Morgan Hill. For more information and to register, visit openspaceauthority.org.

EVENTS CHICAGO BLUES Aki Kumar, master of the Chicago Blues sound and the first professional blues

harmonica player to hail from India, takes the stage in San Juan Bautista. Enjoy 18 different beers on tap, 18 different varietals of both red and white wine and oldschool blues passed down from the harp legends of the ’50s and ’60s Friday, Aug. 24, 6:30-9:30pm at 18th Barrel Tasting Room, 322 Third St, San Juan Bautista. Visit akikumar.com.

DAHLIA CENTRAL Enjoy dahlias galore at the 2018 Monterey Bay Dahlia Society’s annual show. Experience hundreds of spectacular dahlia varieties, from single stem and multi-bloom

This presentation will provide insight on payroll and California regulations, including who is an employee, which employees are exempt or non-exempt, breaks, overtime, minimum wage and more. Wednesday, Aug. 29, 7:3010am at Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy, 6070 Monterey Road, Gilroy. For information and to register, visit tinyurl.com/ybey78ao.

MOONLIGHT TRAIN PARTY Enjoy an evening of fun and relaxation at Roaring Camp’s Moonlight Dinner Train Party.

Attendees will start with a hearty barbecue dinner followed by a leisurely train ride aboard vintage railway cars. At the Bear Mountain stop guests will be charmed by a glowing campfire, hot cider and entertainment. Guests will be greeted upon their return to Roaring Camp with hot apple pie and a live band. Saturday, Aug 25, 5:30-10pm at Roaring Camp, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton. Visit roaringcamp.com.

TIME FOR WINE Clos LaChance continues its Thursday night concert series that has grown over the years into a very popular event for locals. Guests will enjoy incredible vineyard views and a variety of complimentary live music acts at “Time for Wine.” The concert season will finish out on Thursday, Sept. 6 with a performance by Superbad from 7-10pm at Clos LaChance, 1 Hummingbird Lane, San Martin. For more information, visit clos.com.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Help young students in Morgan Hill build their reading skills for success in school and in life by becoming a community volunteer, reading one on one with a child at Morgan Hill’s Boys and Girls Club Reading Hour beginning in September. This weekly program is facilitated by local educators’ organization Gamma Alpha Chapter and will be held Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30pm; volunteers can choose their participation dates.

A required volunteer orientation is set for Tuesday, Aug. 28, 6-7:30pm at the new Boys and Girls Club Clubhouse, 17666 Crest Ave, Morgan Hill. For information or to RSVP, email cindy.miller@ cbnorcal.com.

EMPLOYER ADVISORY SEMINAR Employers are invited to join the Gavilan Employer Advisory Council and the California Employment Development Department to discuss important implications of recent employment trends at Payroll and California Regulations.

POLO PLAY Head to The seventh annual Garlic Cup polo tournament and watch three USPA Tournament games while enjoying a delicious barbecue lunch. There will be several levels of play, from novice to professional battling it out for the coveted Garlic Cup at South Bay Polo. Also enjoy a traditional Champagne Divot Stomp between matches. Saturday, Sept. 8, 11am-5pm at South Bay Polo Club, 1290 Masten Ave, Gilroy. Visit southbaypolo.com.

CITYWIDE SALES Help the environment and give used items a second chance by participating in the 16th annual Second Chance Week. It all begins with the Morgan Hill/San Martin Citywide Garage Sale on Sept.

8-9; the deadline to apply is Friday, Aug. 31. This is followed by a full week of events designed to repurpose unwanted stuff and ends with the Gilroy Citywide Garage Sale Sept. 15-16; the deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 7. Visit secondchanceweek. com for complete details and an application.

AUGUST 24, 2018

and are designed for participants to smoothly move into Sunday’s Advanced Canopy Course that teaches advanced techniques and is designed for jumpers that have already been through a basic canopy course. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 25 and Aug. 26, 7:45am check in each day at Skydive Hollister, 234 B Skylane Dr. Visit tinyurl.com/yal8z8jn.

displays to seedlings and hot new introductions. Enjoy free seminars, classes and demonstrations on making flowing arrangements, judging basics and the perfect growing techniques. The show will be held Saturday, Aug. 25, noon-5pm and Sunday, Aug. 26, 11am-4pm at the Museum of Art and History, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz. Visit mbdahlias.org.

15

Alexis Winder Financial Advisor

Diana Brenneise Financial Advisor

615 San Benito St. Suite C Hollister 831-634-0694

8060 Santa Teresa Blvd.

Suite 140 Gilroy 408-846-7748

Best Deli/ Sandwich Shop 3 years in a row

AUGUST 24, 2018

60 4th Street cafe152breadco.com 408.767.2868

16

Best Burger 5 years in a row

Best Fries 8401 Church Street cafe152burgerco.com 408.767.2055

WINE

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

DR. TOMMY TONG

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

Laura Ness

TANNIC PROFILE The 2017 Guglielmo Grignolino Rosé exhibits tea rose and apricot aromas and is earthy, with crisp apple and tart acidity.

Edgy aroma Guglielmo Nails Grignolino

By LAURA NESS

N

and red wine out of the variety. Winemaker George Guglielmo says they planted seven acres of it on their estate in the mid-1970s. Grignolino means “little pips” or seeds: The abundant seeds contribute to its tannic profile, making it an ideal food companion.

The 2017 Guglielmo Grignolino Rosé exhibits tea rose and apricot aromas and is earthy, with crisp apple and tart acidity. It received a bronze medal at the Experience Rosé competition and would pair well with chicken curry. The 2016 Grignolino red is vivacious and edgy with attractive floral aromas. On the palate, it exudes raspberry, cranberry and baking spices, making it a perfect complement to turkey burgers topped with apricot cranberry chutney or spaghetti with feta and olives.

AUGUST 24, 2018

ot the easiest varietal to pronounce, so make sure you don’t have a mouth full of spaghetti when you ask someone to pass the Guglielmo Grignolino, a sassy red wine that will spice up any summertime repast, pasta or no.

This is an unusual grape in California, and it’s not that common in Italy, either. Known for its light color, high tannin and abundant acidity, it hails from the Monferrato region of Piedmont, home of the Guglielmo family’s ancestors, where Nebbiolo is “the bomb.”

Heitz Cellars and Guglielmo are among the few wineries that make this summer-perfect red in California. Less than 50 acres of it exist statewide.

Guglielmo Winery makes both rosé

17

GETTING OUT

Hidden in the Sierras

Ron Erskine

WATER RUNOFF The South Fork of the Merced River cascades over granite just south of Yosemite.

Traversing mountain passes AUGUST 24, 2018

By RON ERSKINE

18

T

he most visited Sierra playgrounds are alongside mountain passes traversed by the main highways that cross the range. Donner Summit, Echo Summit and Carson Pass are examples that come easily to mind. These areas offer special sights to be sure, but often in close company with other highway travelers. Where is that sweet spot? Where can I enjoy easy access to Sierra mountain beauty beyond the hum of highway traffic?

East of Highway 41 between Oakhurst and the southern entrance to Yosemite National Park and south of the park

boundary lays a vast region honeycombed with Forest Service roads. On a weekend in June, I came to this area with my friend Dan, who has climbed many of the many granite domes there and knows it well. Like any backcountry wanderer worthy of the name, Dan loves to browse topographic maps looking for a corner of the wilderness that calls for a closer look. He found one.

Several miles north of Oakhurst on Highway 41, we turned right on a poorly marked Sky Ranch Road, one end of the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, and our entry point into the Forest Service road labyrinth. It quickly became clear that

navigation here is a chancy prospect without a copy of the Sierra National Forest map (available from the US Forest Service). How else could one make sense of a split in the road marked with two narrow strips of plastic lath; one indicating 6S10X, the other 5S39?

Our hike began at the very end of Sky Ranch Road. Steps from the car, we crossed Chiquito Pass and entered Yosemite National Park. A mile farther and 1,000 feet lower, we arrived at the South Fork of the Merced River miles above its arrival in Wawona. The river was rowdy with runoff, alternately cascading over granite erratics and resting in quiet pools.

Here, we left the trail and followed the river downstream.

Yosemite’s garden was in full bloom. Mountain pride penstemon, phlox, paintbrush and star tulip were a few of the performers.

After a couple miles, the forest and soft footing gave way to a ravine of hulking granite with flowers and contorted pines eking out a living in the narrowest of cracks.

The map showed a trail back up to the road, but we couldn't resist the 1,300-foot scramble directly above us—an invigorating climb and the right choice. Over four million people visited Yosemite last year. We saw no one.

Our six-mile adventure was grand, but it was only one part of the story. Around every bend in the web of forest roads, there was a reason to pull over. I have rarely seen such a gaudy floral display out my car window: dogwood and azalea by the creeks; Douglas irises beneath the pines; meadows bathed in bistort and shooting stars by the thousands.

Down Minarets Road we made our way back to ordinary, but not before a stop at Mile High Vista— by itself well worth the trip. On the distant horizon, close to Mammoth Lakes, rose Mt. Ritter and the Minarets.

AUGUST 24, 2018

19

REAL ESTATE APARTMENT/ CONDO RENTALS BELLAGIO VILLAS 2 Bedroom apartments starting at $2,145.

Pool. Park like setting.

Contemporary landscaping.

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

HOLLISTER MASTER BEDROOM FOR RENT Includes 2 rooms, private bath, mature female preferred.

Rent $900 per month Call 800.400.0219

RENTALS

Country Home 2 Bed/1 Bath

$1,000

2 Bed/1 Bath Apartment

$1,600

2 Bed/1 Bath Duplex

$1,000

COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE 600 sq. ft.

$800

STORAGE UNITS 127 sq. ft. to 790 sq. ft.

Margaret L. Pidd, BROKER Professional Property Mgmt. & Sales

AUGUST 24, 2018

20

3BD/2.5BA $2,150 Condo in Ridgemark Available NOW

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

Contact Marilyn Ferreire BRE 00409787 831.635.6700

1/1 2/2 3/1

3/2

airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802

HOLLISTER INDUSTRIAL LAND

$3,000

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

330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1

northpointebusinesscenter.com

831.637.7337

HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES

831.637.4297

www.pivetticompany.com

For more information, call

831.637.1691

Lic# 429006

HOME & GARDEN SERVICES CONCRETE

FENCES

HAULING

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

J. Casalegno Concrete

Soares Lumber P.S.G. Fencing

South County Cleanup, Demo & Hauling

Redwood Fencing Chain Link • Decks Arbors • Hole Drilling

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

Humberto Montes Tree Services

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

408.279.8036

Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured

408.842.0260 831.726.2002 Lic. #606051

HANDYMAN

www.professionalpropertymgt.com

Rianda Construction

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

ALWAYS CONSULT A REALTOR

$1,725 $2,300 $2,000

HOME RENTALS

CONSTRUCTION

WHEN BUYING OR SELLING A HOME

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

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

339 Seventh St., Ste. B, Hollister

CALL 831.637.9273

FINISHED LOTS

HOLLISTER HOME RENTALS

CONDO FOR RENT

- 35 years experience -

Quality • Integrity New construction Additions & remodels

408.847.1490 Lic: #649968 Credit cards accepted

408.430.3560

Publish

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

classifieds@newsvmedia.com

• 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

Tierra at Monte Bella is Now Selling!

Limited-time Incentive* Visit our Sales Office Today 1208 Campania Way, Salinas, CA centurycommunities.com (831) 800-3964 Se habla español

Tierra at Monte Bella is NOW SELLING! Visit our sales office and ask our sales team about special limited-time buyer incentives.

Tierra at Monte Bella, Century Communities’ newest community, offers five distinct 1 and 2-story floor plans that range in size from 1,543-2,853 square feet with base prices starting from the mid $400’s.

To be the first to know about new releases, go to centurycommunities.com and sign up for the interest list.

AUGUST 24, 2018

*Any incentives, credits or other seller contributions offered herein are effective on the date of publication and expire on 8/31/2018, unless otherwise determined by Seller. Offered for sale by BMC Realty Advisors, Inc. CA Broker License #01920450.

General Contractor License #971581. Seller reserves the right to make changes or modifications to plans, amenities, maps, plan specifications, materials, features, and colors without notice. Maps, plans, landscaping and elevation renderings are artist’s conceptions, are not to scale, and may not accurately depict the homes or lots as they are built. These illustrations may depict options and features that are not standard on all models. Optional features may be included in the purchase, and if included, will vary according to size and location of the lot. Exterior treatments, square footages, window locations, and room configurations may vary with elevation. Model home interior decorating, options, landscaping, fencing, and other amenities are for display purposes only. All marketing material is for illustrative purposes only and not a part of a legal contract. Square footages are approximate. All prices, plans, standard features, specifications, options, availability and estimated delivery dates are subject to change without prior notice. Additional restrictions may apply. See a New Home Counselor for further details. Depictions of homes or other features are conceptual. Decorative items and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. Persons in photos do not reflect racial preference and housing is open to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. ©2018 Century Communities.

21

Showcase, REALTORS® Featured Agent

NEW LISTING

Fantastic End-of-Court Location SUNNYSLOPE AREA ~ Well maintained 3Br/2Ba. Open concept family room, dining area & kitchen w/breakfast bar. Addl den/office. Great backyard w/covered porch, patio & newer lawn.

Call Today for a Private Showing! $549,999 Hollister (831) 245-0321 NEW LISTING

Open Sun Noon-3pm SPANISH COVE ~ Barely 2 years new 3Br/2Ba. Nice open floor plan, granite kitchen counters, beautiful laminate flooring. Upgraded/ oversized awning. Big outside storage shed.

2600 Senter Road #302, San Jose $321,000 Theresa Myers (408) 607-6011

Breathtaking View From Every Window ENTERTAINER’S DREAM ~ Open concept family room/kitchen leading to deck w/stunning views. 3Br/2.5Ba, large master suite w/fireplace, French doors to deck w/spa. 3-car garage.

Call About Heatherwood Estates Hilltop Home $849,000 Hollister (831) 245-0321

Deana Lopez

Mobile: (831) 359�5652 REALTOR® DRE #01957307

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 “hands�on” 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.

Featured Property NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

Great Yard for Kids & Pets to Play AFFORDABLE IN SJ ~ 3Br/2Ba located close to schools, stores & for commuters. Large driveway to park multiple vehicles & gate access to back. Family room/kitchen combo.

Interested? Call for More Details! $709,900 San Jose (831) 245-0321

AUGUST 24, 2018

NEW LISTING

22

Truly One of a Kind QUALITY BUILT ~ Main: 5Br/5Ba, each floor w/master, laundry, addl BRs. Family/theater/rec room. Gorgeous kitchen. Guest: 2Br/1Ba, kitchen, dinette, laundry. 4-car 800sf garage. RV hookups.

For a Private Showing, Give Us a Call! $2,949,800 San Jose (831) 245-0321

Gorgeous and Solar Powered

This spectacular home located in Hollister is ready for you! The home is in a cul-desac on a very large lot. Walk up to the pathway through easy-to-maintain gardens & creek bed. The living room is a spacious place for entertaining & to sit by the cozy fireplace. The dining room is a lovely area to gather & enjoy the view of the side yard w/mature plants & a variety of fruit trees.

The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, granite countertops & “L” shaped dining bar. Adjacent to the kitchen is a dinette area & family room. Upgraded tile flooring & carpet throughout. Well-designed backyard with low maintenance. Solar is owned.

Offered for $679,000 (831) 245-0321

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

330 Tres Pinos Road, Suite D1, Hollister (831) 245�0321 1544 Constitution Blvd, Salinas (831) 800�7341 534 Abrego Street, Monterey (831) 648�7271 237 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley (831) 438�8400 13117 Highway 9, Boulder Creek (831) 338�2125 or 338�2184

705 SOUTH RIDGEMARK DRIVE OPEN SATURDAY 12-3 PM & SUNDAY 2-4:30 PM

RIDGEMARK GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 17TH FAIRWAY Fresh paint inside and out, private inner court patio.

Open plan, 2,128 S.F. Oversized Living Room with cathedral ceiling, fireplace, with access to new Trex deck and bench to enjoy our wonderful warm evenings. AEK, including refrigerator, tile counters and breakfast bar and large eating area that opens to a retreat.

Hardwood floors, new carpets. Inside utility room with sink and storage. 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. The home SPARKLES! 36x24 oversized garage with cabinets, new garage doors. The Home is very inviting.

Enjoy the amenities of GOLF COURSE LIVING AT IT’S BEST!

List Price: $638,800

Discover Cerrato in Hollister!

Tour Five Beautifully Decorated Model Homes Now selling! This new community in Hollister features solar homes that are rich in character and filled with innovation.

Choose from 3 single-story or 5 two-story plans that range in size from 1,616 – 3,183 square feet. With 8 exciting plans to discover, Cerrato provides many options to find your dream home in Hollister!

To be the first to know about new releases, go to CerratoNewHomes.com and sign up for the interest list.

Visit our Sales Office Today

705 Valencia Way Hollister, CA 95023 (located by Highway 25 and Meridian Avenue) (831) 313-0999 centurycommunities.com AUGUST 24, 2018

Price, plans and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Depictions of homes or other features are conceptual. Decorative items and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. Persons in photos do not reect racial preference and housing is open to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. Š 2018 Century Communities.

23