Holiday Gift Guide 2019 - South Valley & San Benito

Holiday SPECIAL MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

GIFT GUIDE 2019

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY P4 | CALENDAR OF EVENTS P12 | LOCAL GIFTS P16

Call 408.767.2868 cafe152@charter.net Food for the How many from 10 to 100 Tell Us We’ll work with your budget MADE

Holidays

CATERING EASY! Made Easy!

Enjoy

Drop Off Free in Gilroy On Site at Cafe 152 Bread Co.

Call cafe152@charter.net

408.767.2868 Here are some ideas!

Assorted Gourmet Sandwiches How many from 10 to 100

Tell Us

Mini SandwichesWe’ll work with your budget Variety of Market Salads Drop Off Free in Gilroy

Enjoy

Site at Cafe 152 Bread Co. Audrey’s FinestOn Chocolate Chip Cookies and many other Desserts Here are some ideas!

Here are some ideas!

Exceptional Breakfast • Assorted gourmetAssorted sandwiches Gourmet Goodies • Mini sandwiches Sandwiches

Pastries and Coffee • Variety of market salads

Mini Sandwiches

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

Audrey’s Finest Chocolate

EDITOR’S NOTE

Keep it local Whether we are ready for it or not, the holiday season is here. That means shopping, waiting in line, fighting traffic and dealing with overwhelming stress.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

In this issue, we’ve made it easy for holiday shoppers to not only stay local but support their local community. Our annual Holiday Gift Guide presents a list of various local

establishments, broken down into a variety of categories to help residents find gifts for the thrill seekers, bookworms and more.

We also focus on Small Business Saturday, a growing movement after Black Friday that aims to benefit local mom-and-pop establishments.

ERIK CHALHOUB

Editor, South Valley and San Benito

• 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 Bread Co. Cafe 152 - BYOW BYOW Pastries and Coffee

Office parties and events

408.767.2868

Catering

MAGAZINE

Fall Harvest Small Bites Menu Sliders - Burger Bar Buffet Dinner for drop off

MAGAZINE

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Appetizer Party at Cafe 152 Bread Co. BYOW

408.767.2868 • cafe152@charter.net

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

Dan Pulcrano

Catering

Associate Publisher

Jeannette Close Editor

408.767.2868 • cafe152@charter.net

Saturday, December 7 Schedule: Doggie Dress-up 2:30 pm Vendor Booths 2:30pm-7pm Performances 3pm-5pm Holiday Parade 5:30 pm Tree Lighting 6:30 pm

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Santa photos 7pm

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Erik Chalhoub

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Tia Sundberg Contributing Writers

Jenny Arbizu, Wallace Baine, Ron Erskine, Kimberly Ewertz, Cheryl Huguenor, Laura Ness, Susan Rife, Kate Russell

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Cover Story

Advertising Account Executives

9

Crush

Design Director

10 Theater

For more information find us on Facebook & Instagram at: Gilroy Downtown Business Association

12 Calendar

nancy@downtowngilroy.com

16 Gift Guide

408-842-0005

Calendar Editor

14 Wine

19 Home of the Week 23 Real Estate

Carrie Bonato, Scott Harvey, Eileen Katis, Cynthia Runyon Kara Brown Production Operations Manager

Sean George Editorial Production Manager

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

TO PLACE AN AD Email:

advertising@newsvmedia.com Phone:

408.842.9404

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

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Robert Eliason

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

SHOP SMALL Local retailers are hoping to attract holiday shoppers during Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30.

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BIG SMALL BUSINESS Day after Black Friday devoted to the mom-and-pops BY ERIK CHALHOUB

B

lack Friday. Cyber Monday. Gray Thursday (also referred to as that fairly well-known holiday, Thanksgiving).

It seems that nearly every day of the week toward the end of November has a color or adjective attached to it. But over the last decade, that list of days cannot be written without adding one more: Small Business Saturday.

American Express created the Small Business Saturday campaign in 2010, occurring the day after Black Friday, as a way to bring awareness to the small

mom-and-pop stores in a season dominated by big box and online retailers.

The campaign has become a phenomenon. According to a study by American Express and the National Federation of Independent Business, customers who shopped at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday in 2018 across the United States reported spending $17.8 billion that day. Since its founding, customers have spent $103 billion.

Small business is big business in San Benito County and southern Santa Clara County.

According to the Gilroy Economic

Middle & right: Erik Chalhoub

“When you support a local business, you’re also supporting your city,” said Gary Walton, president of the Gilroy Downtown Business Association. “Businesses pay sales taxes to our city, which are in turn used to support public schools, parks, roads and sidewalks, as well as fund public service workers, like firefighters.”

According to Walton, studies have shown that roughly 48 percent of each purchase at a local business recirculates back into the community, compared to less than 14 percent of purchases from chain stores.

“It is pretty clear that small businesses are key contributors to

a community’s quality of life and help reduce the city’s need to ask for additional taxes from the community, because more of your dollars are recirculated in the local economy compared to the national chains,” he said.

Corey Shaffer, executive director of the Hollister Downtown Association, said small businesses offer personalized service, something not seen at big box retailers.

“Small Business Saturday is a chance for a small business to really promote their business and the uniqueness of shopping at a small, one-on-one business,” she said.

Walton said Small Business ➝ 6

“When you support a local business, you’re also supporting your city.”

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Development Corporation, Gilroy has roughly 2,200 businesses that employ fewer than 100 people each, accounting for more than 13,000 jobs in the city, or 70 percent of all jobs.

In Morgan Hill, 1,267 firms have fewer than 100 employees each, according to the California Employment Development Department. A total of 981 of those have fewer than nine employees each.

San Benito County has 1,429 businesses with 20 or fewer employees. A little more than a thousand of those have fewer than four employees each.

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BIG SMALL BUSINESS

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Erik Chalhoub

LOCALLY INSPIRED Kathina Szeto’s business, San Benito Bene, has

participated in Small Business Saturday since its inception.

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Saturday is an awareness campaign that will hopefully encourage shoppers to return to local businesses throughout the year.

“The GDBA encourages the community to support our local small businesses as part of your regular routine throughout the year,” he said. “They may be small business but they do have a big impact on Gilroy’s uniqueness and strong sense of community.”

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Business to business Many small businesses from Morgan Hill to San Benito County will be open on Small Business Saturday, offering various discounts and other perks to entice shoppers to walk through their doors.

Downtown Hollister businesses, for instance, will mark Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30 by organizing a “downtown shop hop,” encouraging shoppers to visit by offering raffles and prizes.

Kathina Szeto, owner of San Benito Bene at 615-B San Benito St., proudly displays a list, titled “10 Ways Small Businesses Benefit the Local Community,” near the front door of her downtown Hollister business: 1. Community identity 2. Community involvement 3. Community health 4. Environmental benefits 5. Increasing the tax base 6. Local jobs ➝8 7. Entrepreneurship

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NOVEMBER 29, 2019

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BIG SMALL BUSINESS

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for the

The most wonderful time of the year!

Downtown Ice: Nov. 15 - Jan. 12 Winter Wonderland: Nov. 27 - Jan. 5 Christmas in the Park: Nov. 29 - Jan. 5 Santa Run: Dec. 15

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Find Your Go-To Spot at ParkSJ.org 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.

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Erik Chalhoub

sjdowntown.com/holidays SWEET TREATS San Benito Bene offers a variety of chocolates for sale.

8. Innovation and competition 9. Less Infrastructure and low maintenance 10. Diverse, locally made products and services “This is what guides me,” she said.

The cozy, 700-square-foot business offers a variety of local products such as olive oils, pottery, soaps and spices. A map posted on a wall at San Benito Bene displays some of the many local establishments that have products for sale inside the business, such as Pinnacle Organic Produce, Mansmith’s Gourmet, Uvas Gold Apiary, B&R Farms, Christopher Ranch and more.

Spices, gourmet mustards,

smoked ketchup, tea leaves, apricot preserves, local honey and olives are also sold.

Bath products include goat milk lotions, body butters and healing bath salts. There are also toys made in Hollister, and locally made jewelry and chocolates.

“My favorite part about collaborating with local growers and artisans is hearing about how they're doing,” Szeto said, “how their product is coming along during the seasonal changes, and learning about their innovative ways. I enjoy sharing these stories with our customers and in turn hear more about the history of San Benito County.”

O& A

OUT & ABOUT

ANNUAL TEA

Celebrate the holiday season with friends and family while enjoying freshly brewed tea and cakes in Morgan Hill Dec. 6.

MORGAN HILL

HOLIDAY TEA The Morgan Hill Historical Society’s 10th annual Holiday Tea will be held at the Hiram Morgan Hill House. Guests will enjoy freshly brewed tea, cakes and complimentary champagne, as well as raffle prizes, silent auction items and more. This annual fundraiser supports maintaining Villa Mira Monte for educational programs and community enjoyment. Children are welcome; seating is limited. Friday, Dec. 6, 11:30am-3pm at Morgan Hill House at Villa Mira Monte, 17860 Monterey Road. For reservations, visit morganhillhistoricalsociety.org.

MORGAN HILL

POST-THANKSGIVING HIKE Open Space Authority docents will host a moderate walk for “Hike Your Pie Off.” The 4.3-mile hike will traverse the Mayfair Ranch Trail to the Longwall Canyon Trail to take in sweeping vistas of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Dress in layers, wear sun protection and bring water. Friday, Nov. 30, 9am-noon at Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 4289 Casa Loma Road. For information, visit openspaceauthority.org.

HOLLISTER

LIGHTS ON The Hollister Downtown Association will hold its 29th annual Lights On Celebration. This family-friendly, all-day community event features a holiday car display, Dec-A-Tree Contest, food vendors and live entertainment. A free “Christmas Traditions”-themed parade begins at 5:30pm. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for pictures at 7pm in front of the Veterans Memorial Building. Saturday, Nov. 30, 10am-7pm on San Benito Street. For a complete list of events and more information, visit downtownhollister.org.

MORGAN HILL

The Grinch (2018) will be screened at the Downtown Amphitheater. Guests are invited to pack a dinner, wear their pajamas, cuddle up in blankets and enjoy the show.

This free showing is presented by Engenius Learning Center of Morgan Hill along with the City of Morgan Hill. Saturday, Nov. 30, 5-7pm at 17000 Monterey St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/y5zg6smm.

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

OUTDOOR MOVIE

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THEATER REVIEW

Photo by Elizabeth Mandel

STEEL MAGNOLIAS South Valley Civic Theatre’s production runs through Dec. 7.

Gossipy gatherings ‘Steel Magnolias’ is a whirlwind of emotions BY SUSAN L. RIFE

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

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on’t be deceived by the light and fluffy interactions between a group of women who convene for haircuts and manicures at Truvy’s beauty salon in small-town Chinquapin, La. There are powerful emotions pulsing beneath the snipping of hair scissors, the hum of hair dryers and the painting of nails as the women exchange gossip, hide and then share their feelings, endure the slings and arrows of life, and celebrate and mourn together.

South Valley Civic Theatre’s production of “Steel Magnolias,” Robert Harling’s 1987 tribute to a sister who died from complications of diabetes, took a few scenes to get into gear on opening night, but by

the climactic close, the cast, well directed by Bill Tindall and Tiffany Goller, is firing on all cylinders.

That is particularly true of Myra Kaelin as M’Lynn Eatenton, the doyenne of Chinquapin, whose relationship with her diabetic daughter Shelby (Becca Snook), forms the centerpiece of the play.

Kaelin gives full rein to her maternal pain when Shelby, defying her doctor’s advice that she not become pregnant, loses her battle with the disease that has defined her life.

M’Lynn’s agony is shared by her supportive circle at the salon, led by the vivacious Truvy (a sassy and delightful Adrianne Wilkinson), the former mayor’s wife Clairee (a solid and grounding Marion Pintello), crabby neighborhood eccentric Ouiser (a snappy and funny

Suzi Sellers), and novice hairstylist Annelle (who undergoes a dramatic transformation from abandoned wife to party girl to born-again Christian), convincingly portrayed

by Marisa Lopes.

There’s a nice bit of undercurrent in the relationship between the overprotective M’Lynn and Shelby, who is eager to get out from under her mother’s supervision and truly grow up. The first act is set as the women prepare for Shelby’s wedding, and the tension between the mother and daughter is well executed by Kaelin and Snook, who might be a shade young for the role but captures a certain note of defiance in the set of her jaw.

Directors Tindall and Goller also designed the set for the show, which takes place entirely within

the confines of Truvy’s, a garage converted into a two-station salon.

Overstuffed sofas and chairs give the room a sense of the kind of homey, comfortable ease where a group of friends spend time together.

Terri Miles’ costumes are well suited to the show, from Truvy’s leopard-print pants and bedazzled jacket to the all-pink, everyday ensembles favored by Shelby (whose wedding colors are “bashful” and “blush”).

“Steel Magnolias” continues through Dec. 7 at South Valley Civic Theatre in the Morgan Hill Community Playhouse, 17090 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill.

Tickets are $18-$28. To purchase tickets, visit www.svct.org or call (408) 842-SHOW.

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

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O& A CALENDAR

File Art

HOLIDAY PARADE

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

The Annual Morgan Hill Kiwanis Holiday Lights Parade and Tree Lighting is a free event that has been a highlight of the holidays in Morgan Hill for decades. Floats from community organizations will parade through downtown Saturday, Dec. 7, 5:30-7pm on Monterey Road from First Street to Fifth Street in Downtown Morgan Hill. The parade ends as Santa’s Magic Ship leads the crowd to the ceremonial tree lighting at the corner of Dunne Avenue and Monterey Road in Downtown Morgan Hill. For information, visit morganhillkiwanis.org..

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GILROY GARDENS HOLIDAY Gilroy Gardens’ 26 acres of trees and gardens come alive with sparkling light displays and holiday treats

during Gilroy Gardens Holiday.

Attendees can ice skate, visit with Santa, ride favorite rides and more. Select nights, Nov. 29-Dec. 30, 4-9pm and Dec. 31, 4pm-midnight at Gilroy Gardens

Family Theme Park, 3050 Hecker Pass Highway. For information, visit gilroygardens.org.

CHOCOLATE & WINE The Stomping Ground is hosting two nights of chocolate and wine pairings. Alara Cellars and JasonStephens Winery have teamed up with Heritage Chocolates to present this decadent experience.

Friday, Nov. 29 and Saturday, Nov. 30, at 6pm each day at The Stomping Ground, 6500 Brem Lane. For information, visit thestompingground.com.

BOUTIQUE FUNDRAISER Live Oak Adult Day Services presents its Holiday Boutique, featuring home-baked goods, jewelry,

holiday decor, ornaments, clothing and more. All items are offered at low prices, and proceeds will benefit Live Oak’s non-profit center. Monday-Friday, Dec. 2-23, 9am-3pm each weekday at 651 W. Sixth St., Suite 2. Attendees are encouraged to bring items from their own closets or garage that are no longer needed to be sold at the event. For information, call 408.847.5491.

COMMUNITY MEETING Join the conversation and give input about parks and recreation at City of Gilroy Recreation’s upcoming community meeting. Participant feedback will shape future public recreation opportunities. Food and

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HOLIDAY KICK-OFF

Ring in the holiday season in true small-town America style at the Downtown Gilroy Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting. Live entertainment and activities begin at 2:30pm including the annual Doggie Dress-Up, a variety of vendor booths, and main stage performances. The parade starts at 5:30pm and the tree lighting begins at 6:30pm at Fifth Street and Monterey Road. Photos with Santa at Executive Realty will round out the evening. Saturday, Dec. 7, 2:307pm in Downtown Gilroy. For information, visit downtowngilroy.com.

child care will be available, and participants may enter to win a raffle prize. Two meeting times are available, Thursday, Dec. 5, 5:306:30pm or 7-8pm at Gilroy Senior Center, 7371 Hanna St. Spanish translation will be provided at the 7pm meeting. For information, visit recreategilroy.com.

MORGAN HILL DUELING PIANOS Dueling Pianos International will perform with two grand pianos playing classic rock, country, hard rock, Top 40 and more. Attendees will also enjoy dinner by the Live+Love+Leal culinary team. Saturday, Nov. 30, 6-10pm at Granada Theatre, 17440 Monterey St. For information, visit liveloveleal.com.

CHRISTMAS PARTY The Lazy Susans cover band will perform at Christmas at the Running Shop and Hops. Enjoy live music and support the community at this fun Christmas Party. Ugly sweaters are encouraged, and Santa will

Families are invited to celebrate Hanukkah at this year’s Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose Hanukkah cultural celebration, Menorahs and Miracles. Guests will take part in activities including sculpting clay dreidels, playing dreidel games for Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins), tasting latkes, making celebratory candles, performances by the Yavneh Day School and more. Sunday, Dec. 8, noon-4pm at the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, 180 Woz Way, San Jose. For information, visit cdm.org.

be on hand for pictures with the kids. Sunday, Dec. 1, 3-6pm at The Running Shop and Hops, 17500 Depot St. For information, visit tinyurl.com/vlj5swe.

DISCUSSION GROUP Morgan Hill Round Table, a free discussion group, will discuss local and national issues and current events.

The group’s goal is not to reach consensus or agreement, but to become better informed and hear differing perspectives. Materials in the form of videos or readings will be distributed or shown to support discussion focusing on the topic of “Repairing America’s Infrastructure.”

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 6:30-8pm at Morgan Hill Library, 660 W. Main Ave. For information, visit sccl.org.

WHITE ELEPHANT Bike

Therapy presents its annual Ladies’ Night White Elephant Party. Guests are highly encouraged (but not required) to bring a gift valued at $25 or less for the white elephant gift exchange game. Wednesday, Dec. 4, 7-9:30pm at Bike Therapy, 17540 Depot St. Space is limited.

For information or to reserve a spot, visit tinyurl.com/v3cfvj7.

TOT SHABBAT Children of all faiths are invited to have some Chanukah fun at Tot Shabbat at BookSmart Morgan Hill. The event will feature activities, games and projects as well as some Chanukah treats. Friday, Dec. 6, 5:30-6:30pm at BookSmart of Morgan Hill, 421 Vineyard Town Center. For information, call 408.778.6467. ➝ 15

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

TOY DRIVE The Neon Exchange and Mt. Madonna YMCA will hold a holiday open house and toy drive before and during the Gilroy Holiday Parade festivities.

Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn, as well as photo opportunities with Santa. Guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy donation to support the YMCA’s annual holiday giving campaign. Saturday, Dec. 7, 3:307pm at The Neon Exchange,

7365-7371 Monterey Road. For information, call 669.239.0007.

HANUKKAH CELEBRATION

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WINE

Laura Ness

WELCOME The flight of the day at Church Creek Cellars.

Varieties galore at Church Creek Winery nabs Double Gold award By LAURA NESS

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

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hen I dropped in at Church Creek Cellars on a warm November Saturday, the parking lot was near full and the place was filled with many happy patrons being served by a welcoming staff. Among them were three gents named Carl, Ray and Rich, who make the wine at Church Creek Cellars.

Here, 21 acres of 21-year-old vines are planted to 11 varieties, much of which is sold to about 10 local wineries. Property owner Carl Borsody made three different rosĂŠs this year, from cabernet sauvignon, merlot and sangiovese.

He snagged a sample of the former from tank. Pale as dawn from 35 minutes of skin contact, it was pure perfumey deliciousness, brimming with guava, watermelon and peach.

Borsody says yields were really down on the merlot this year, as it was flowering just as May rains

hit. He was stoked to be awarded a Double Gold at the Orange County Fair for his 2013 merlot.

Those who crave the abyss of dark tannins will fancy the 2014 petite sirah, swimming in dark cherry and chocolate. The 2016 tempranillo is big-shouldered and smooth as a white T-shirt, but it’s amply packed with roasted plums and a super smooth mouthfeel. The 2017 pinot noir, from 200 vines scattered among a field blend in one corner of the vineyard, packs cranberry and orange peel around a cinnamon stick of tannin that is slowly resolving. They are still hanging fruit for their thoroughly addictive solera-style dessert wine.

Patience will be rewarded.

Church Creek Cellars is located at

11495 Center Ave. in Gilroy.

For information, visit churchcreekcellars.com.

O& A CALENDAR

13 stepping back to the early days of San Juan. Enjoy craft and cooking demonstrations and see historic horse-drawn vehicles inside the Plaza Stables, along with Victorian furnishings in the Plaza Hotel and Zanetta Family home. Taste an old-fashioned soda in the historic Plaza Hotel Saloon. Saturday, Dec. 7, 11am-4pm at San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, 19 Franklin St. For information, call 831.623.4881.

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HOLIDAY OF LIGHTS

The 14th annual San Juan Bautista Holiday of Lights Parade, sponsored by the Rotary Club of San Juan Bautista, features the theme, “San Juan Bautista’s 150th Anniversary Grand Finale.” Attendees will enjoy holiday floats, marching bands, dancers, classic cars, horses on parade and more. The celebration will also feature visits and pictures with Santa to remember the 2019 Holiday Season. Saturday, Dec. 7, 6-8pm beginning at San Juan School and traveling down Third Street in downtown San Juan Bautista. For information, visit rotarysanjuanbautista.com or call Jill Ortiz at 831.801.3920.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

BREAKFAST FOR SUPPER The Gilroy Lions Club presents the 45th annual Omelet & Pancake Supper, the club’s major fundraiser, with 100 percent of the profits benefiting sight preservation in the South County area. Made-to-order omelets, pancakes, coffee and Tang will be available at this all-you-can-eat event. Friday, Dec. 6, 5-7:30pm at Gilroy Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 6000 Miller Ave., Gilroy. For information or tickets, call 408.500.8626.

LIVING HISTORY Meet mountain men, Civil War soldiers, Victorian ladies and more while

EXHIBITION AND RAFFLE The San Benito County Arts Council presents its newest exhibition, “Small Works: An Exhibition & Raffle of Small Scale Artwork.”

This exhibition features original artworks—no larger than 7 inches by 9 inches, created by more than 30 local artists and including paintings, pottery, ceramics, photography, prints and more. This exhibition will be held through Dec. 6, concluding with an Art Party and Live Raffle Friday, Dec. 6, 6:30-8:30pm at ARTspace ANNEX, 217 Fifth St., Hollister. For information, visit sanbenitoarts.org.

VICTORIAN HOMES Tour Hollister’s historic homes on the Second Annual Victorian Christmas Home Tour. Attendees will tour multiple historic homes of Hollister and enjoy specialty food, wine and handcrafted desserts provided by a variety of Hollister’s local restaurants and wineries. All proceeds benefit the Hollister Pregnancy Center.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 5-9pm, tour check in and registration begins

HOLIDAY CONCERT South Bay Singers will celebrate the season at “Heaven and Nature Sing–A Holiday Concert.” Enjoy a rendition of “Gloria” by Francis Poulenc in the first half of this festive concert and an array of familiar carols in the second half.

Purchase tickets for $20 at the door; children under the age of 10 are free. Saturday, Dec. 7, 2pm at Gilroy Presbyterian Church, 6000 Miller Ave., Gilroy. For tickets, visit southbaysingers.com.

HOLIDAY BALL The Granada Theater presents a Holiday Party with a welcome reception and cocktail hour, live music, dancing and a seated dinner. A professional show by the Arthur Miller Dance Team will also be presented.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 6-10pm at Granada Theater, 17440 Monterey St., Morgan Hill. For information and tickets, visit tinyurl.com/rvx8g3y.

CHRISTMAS CAROLS Enjoy festive holiday music in four-part harmony as The Friends of the Morgan Hill Library present Live Holiday Music by Resounding Achord Caroling. Selections will include traditional carols and new arrangements of holiday classics.

Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7pm at Morgan Hill Library, 660 W. Main Ave., Morgan Hill. For information, call 408.779.3196.

EVENING WITH SANTA Spend and evening with Santa Claus at the Morgan Hill Community & Cultural Center enjoying holiday treats and a complimentary photo.

Guests are invited to consider bringing a new unwrapped toy for the annual toy drive. Photos will be provided by Deborah Nagai Photography. Wednesday, Dec. 11, 5-7:30pm at Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey St., Morgan Hill.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/ uo3wd5b.

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

CHRISTMAS CONCERT Mezzo soprano Laure de Marcellus will perform at Mission San Juan Bautista in “Heaven’s Light: A Christmas Concert.” De Marcellus will perform with her longtime collaborator Alberto Urroz in this special Christmas program.

Space is limited, and proceeds will benefit the Mission Parish.

Saturday, Nov. 30, 7pm at Old Mission San Juan Bautista, 406 Second St. For tickets and information, visit tinyurl.com/ y6mltg5z.

EVENTS

HOLIDAY GATHERING Verde Vineyards’ Holiday Gathering includes food, wine, live music and more. Guests will be treated to food catered by the Milias Restaurant, chocolate and wine pairing station and barrel tastings with George Green. Live music with Larry Baushey will also be featured, as well as a holiday photo booth and raffle. Friday, Dec. 6, 6-8:30pm at 2143 Buena Vista Ave., Gilroy. Ages 21 and over only.

For tickets and more information, visit verdevineyards.com.

at Hollister Pregnancy Center, 483 Fifth St., Hollister. This is an adult only event. For tickets and information, visit home-tour-2019. ticketleap.com/hpc.

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GIFT GUIDE 2019

Gifting accomplished

Robert Eliason

GIFT OF READING Viggo Swarts shows off his copy of Robin Riding’s “Mermaids Fast Asleep,” available at BookSmart in Morgan Hill.

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Shopping local for the holidays is a meaningful journey

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S

houldn’t the journey for that perfect gift be its own gift?

Shoppers looking for quick, often meaningless, gifts will click and tap their way through the bottomless pit of the internet. But that experience is as cold as the color emitting from those screens.

Those wanting to give joy not only to others but to themselves need only look in their backyards. The South Valley and San Benito regions are rich with unique boutique shops, specialty food hotspots, and awe-inspiring destinations. It’s an adventure worth taking, and much more satisfying than staring at a screen while sitting in a rigid office chair.

In this guide, we make it simple to find a local gift for everyone on those shopping lists, from the bookworms to the thrill-seekers, and especially those who seemingly have everything.

BOOKWORMS Bill’s Bullpen Baseball Cards & Comics 207 Fourth St., Hollister, 831.636.1180 tinyurl.com/billsbullpen

Bill’s Bullpen is family-friendly hobby store, serving San Benito County and Central California since 1987.

BookBuyers 7541 Monterey Road, Gilroy, 408.767.2929, bookbuyers.com

Located in downtown Gilroy, Bookbuyers & Grassroots Learning Center offers one of the largest selections of used books and media in the Santa Clara County region.

BookSmart Morgan Hill 421 Vineyard Town Center, Morgan Hill, 408.778.6467 mybooksmart.indielite.org

BookSmart fills many retail needs

including books and educational toys, greeting cards, magazines, coffee, ice cream, candy and café food items.

Thinker Toys 311 Vineyard Town Center, Morgan Hill, 408.779.5260, thinkertoys.com

Thinker Toys features special toys, games, children's books, arts and crafts projects, stuffed animals and more.

CRAFTY CREATIVES Family Threads Quilt Shoppe 107 D The Alameda, San Juan Bautista, 831.623.0200 familythreadsquiltshop.com

Grass Farm/Garden Accents

File photo

Family Threads Quilt Shoppe offers hundreds of bolts of 100 percent cotton fabrics, a wall of notions including rulers, needles, thread, marking tools and a large rotating rack of buttons.

SWEET ORANGE Blenheim apricot grower B&R Farms in Hollister offers dried apricots,

chocolate covered apricots, sun-dried apricot seeds, preserves and more.

11155 Lena Ave., Gilroy, 408.846.4555, grassfarm.com

Nimble Thimble

B & R Farms

Grass Farm/Garden Accents provides sod lawn to homeowners and landscape contractors, as well as plants, fountains, statuary, garden art, gifts and more.

7455 Monterey St., Gilroy, 408.842.6501, nimblethimble.com

5280 Fairview Road, Hollister, 831.637.9168, brfarms.com

The Last Stitch Quilting Design Studio & Gallery 107 B/C The Alameda, San Juan Bautista, 831.623.4330

The Last Stitch Quilting Design Studio and Gallery offers 4,000 patterns to choose from, access to a rental machine for quilting, and handmade items from the community and pattern design services for special quilts to tell a personal story.

FOODIES Andy's Orchard 1615 Half Road, Morgan Hill, 408.782.7600, andysorchard.com

Andy’s Orchard is a fruit grower specializing in tree-ripened stone fruit. Visit a tasting or orchard tour event or the retail Fruit Stand and Country Store that offers food, gifts and mail order items.

Casa De Fruta

160 Briggs Road, Hollister, 800.588.3886 debritochocolate.com

DeBrito Chocolate Factory’s original factory store features gourmet chocolates and crisp and fresh caramel apples made daily.

Fairhaven Orchards

10021 Pacheco Pass Highway, Hollister, 408.543.1702 casadefruta.com

1448 Bolsa Road, Hollister, 831.637.4221 fairhavenorchards.com

Casa De Fruta sells fresh-off-thefarm fruits and vegetables, premium dried fruits and nuts, and unique condiments. It also offers gourmet groceries and a full-service deli section at Casa de Wine and a candy lover's paradise at Casa de Sweets.

Fairhaven Orchards has been family-owned and operated since 1958 and offers Bing, Royal Hazel and Rainier Cherries, and fresh and dried Blenheim Apricots. ➝ 18

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

stores.laststitchquiltingdesignstudio.com

The Nimble Thimble offers a unique resource for all things quilting, from inspiration to binding, and supports crafters and sewists of all types. It also features many unique gift items, sewing machines and sewing furniture.

B&R Farms has grown and processed Blenheim apricots on their ranch in Hollister since 1929. The farm offers dried Blenheim apricots, chocolate covered apricots, sun-dried apricot seeds, preserves and toppings, gifts and more.

DeBrito Chocolate Factory

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GIFT GUIDE 2019

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File photo

BE CREATIVE Linda Williams, owner of the Nimble Thimble in downtown Gilroy, shows off the variety of fabrics the store offers crafters of all kinds.

The Farm Bertuccios 2410 Airline Highway, Hollister, 831.636.0821 thefarmbertuccios.com

The Farm Bertuccios is a small town market with fresh fruits and vegetables in addition to dried apricots, and chocolate-covered apricots and walnuts.

The Garlic Shoppe

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

4310 Monterey Highway, Gilroy, 888.328.4275 garlicdude.com

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The Garlic Shoppe offers high quality California grown foods, sauces and gadgets.

Garlic World 4800 Monterey Highway, Gilroy, 800.537.6122 garlicworld.com

Garlic World offers a selection of

garlic products including garlic braids, fresh garlic, pickled garlic, garlic seasonings, dehydrated garlic, garlic olive oils and more.

Pinnacle Organic Farmers 400 Duncan Ave., San Juan Bautista, 831.623.9422, pinnacleorganic.com

Pinnacle Organic Farmers grow cool season crops such as lettuce and cabbage on 50 acres in San Juan Bautista and hot season crops like sweet corn, bell peppers, garlic and onions on 200 acres near Hollister.

Wineries Throughout South Valley and San Benito, santaclarawines.com, discoversanbenitocounty.com/foodand-wine/wineries-and-craft-beers/

The southern Santa Clara County and San Benito regions are home to dozens of wineries and tasting rooms.

THE HARD-TOBUY-FOR Ashford’s Heirlooms 7547 Monterey St., Gilroy, 408.842.8236 facebook.com/AshfordsHeirlooms

Ashford’s Heirlooms stocks a collection of antiques, household goods, sewing, vintage vinyl, Native American jewelry and vintage furniture.

The Barn at Hoey Ranch 2480 Hecker Pass Highway, Gilroy, 408.309.1179 thebarnathoeyranch.squarespace.com

Visitors will find everything from iceboxes to jukeboxes, from vintage furniture to farm equipment inside this 130-year-old barn. Open select

weekends and by appointment only, be sure to call ahead.

Bella Charm 835 Prospect Ave., Hollister, 831.636.7757 bellacharmshop.com

Bella Charm is a boutique in a rustic old feed mill that features a selection of everything from western swag to customized jewelry.

Garbo’s Antiques 7565 Monterey St., Gilroy, 408.842.7373 tinyurl.com/garbosantiques

Find collectibles and rarities at this downtown antique mall with eight shops and an ever-changing storefront window.

File photo

A BETTER SEAT Mike Corbin has been manufacturing motorcycle seats for more than 50 years. His workshop in Hollister offers ride-in service where patrons can have a custom motorcycle seat made.

Jewel Box Morgan Hill, LP. 17190 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill, 408.776.9444 jewelboxofmorganhill.com

The Jewel Box offers fine jewelry, diamonds, custom jewelry designs, estate jewelry, onsite jewelry and watch repairs and more.

Morgan Hill Wine Shop & Cigar Co. 16375 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill, 408.776.7667 morganhillcigar.com

San Benito Bene 615 San Benito St., Hollister, 831.638.1188, sanbenitobene.com

San Benito Bene is a “OneStop” gift shop and an artistic

THRIFT-MINDED Corner Thrift Store 54B East San Martin Ave., San Martin, 408.872.8835 sanmartinthriftstore.com

Corner Thrift is a one-stop vintage and antique shop in San Martin specializing in individualized service.

Goodwill Thrift Store Hollister 1703 Airline Highway goodwillsv.org

More than 2,000 one-of-a-kind items are introduced onto the sales floor each day. Revenue generated at Goodwill funds employment training and job placement services for people in the community. ➝ 20

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Fine cigars and fine wine are available in this wine and cigar bar featuring wines from more than 25 local wineries.

environment with locally inspired, customizable gifts.

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GIFT GUIDE 2019

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File photo

ANTIQUE COLLECTION Linda Ashford of Ashford’s Heirlooms in

Gilroy is shown with a variety of the store’s vintage goods.

Hazel’s Thrift Store 898 San Benito St., Hollister, 831.638.0526 hazelsthriftshop.org

Hazel’s Thrift Shop is run by volunteers of Hazel Hawkins Hospital Auxiliary with proceeds going toward the purchase of equipment and materials related to patient care.

Murphy’s Mercantile 17337 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill, 408.779.5400, murphysmercantile.com

Murphy’s Mercantile features items handpicked from estate sales and antique shows across the Bay Area.

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Bike Therapy is a full-service family bike store that aims to help everyone between the ages of 2 and 99 to discover the joys of pedaling, on the trails or on the road.

Corbin Workshop 2360 Technology Parkway, Hollister, 831.634.1100, corbin.com

The Corbin factory offers ride-in service where patrons can have a custom motorcycle seat made

while they wait or have a pre-ordered Corbin Fairing and/or Saddlebags installed.

Gilroy Gardens 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy, 408.840.7100, gilroygardens.org

Billed as California’s only horticultural theme park, Gilroy Gardens features roller coasters, circus trees, paddle boats and more.

Memberships are always on sale.

Off the Chain Bikes, Inc. 101 McCray St, Hollister, 831.636.0802, offthechainbikes.com

Off the Chain Bike Shop offers road bikes, mountain bikes, BMX, beach cruisers, cross cycle and children’s bicycles, as well as components, accessories, clothing and shoes.

Skydive Hollister 234B Skylane Drive, Hollister, 800.386.5867 skydivehollister.com

Skydive Hollister is a full-service skydive drop zone. Skydivers can choose their height, from 8,000 feet to 18,000 feet, or 15 seconds to one minute of free falling.

HOME OF THE WEEK

Hazel Hawkins Hospital Auxiliary More than 20 vendors!

Saturday, December 14 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Veteran’s Memorial Building

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

Downtown Hollister

Lunch available 11:00 am - 3:00 pm New menu with Hot Dogs, Chips, Sodas, Cookies and more!

Bring the Whole Family!

CROSS-FENCED This Gilroy home sits on more than two acres.

Solar-powered horse property Rural Gilroy home features barn, sand area and remodeled kitchen floors are throughout, as well as alder and walnut custom cabinets and walnut crown moldings.

The property, which is powered with solar by Tesla, is crossfenced with a sand area and twostall paddock.

The home is listed at $1,449,999

by RE/MAX Real Estate Services.

For information, visit tinyurl. com/wgohyee.

• 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

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

W

ith a four-stall barn and tack room, there is plenty of horse property at this home in the Day Valley area of rural Gilroy.

Located at 2805 Day Road, the 3,021-square-foot home includes three bedrooms and three baths.

The home, built in 1978, features a remodeled granite kitchen and bathrooms. Hickory hardwood

Located in Historic Downtown Gilroy

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We hope this Thanksgiving holiday brings an abundance of hope and happiness to your table.

We’re so very thankful for friends and customers like all of you, and we wish you the best at Thanksgiving and always.

Showcase, REALTORS®

Corner-Lot Mediterranean

Open Saturday Noon-3pm Hosted by Ana Milenewicz (831) 595-2036 Open Sunday Noon-3pm Listed by Charline King (831) 801-5464 Six-years new in the heart of Hollister on a corner lot! Single-story 3Br/2Ba boasts pride of ownership! Living room w/cozy fireplace & open to spacious dining area for easy entertaining. Light & bright kitchen w/island, area for a dinette table; & lots of granite counters, stainless steel appliances, stainless sink & lots of cabinets. The kitchen flows into the family room w/easy access to the backyard for family BBQs & entertaining. The spacious master suite can accommodate your large furnishings, has a walk-in closet w/builtin shelves, & master bath w/large soaking tub & stall shower. Easily maintained backyard w/hardscape & artificial lawn. Close to stores and school. This home is ready for you!

1990 Morning Glory Drive, Hollister

Offered for $609,000

The real estate market is hot and inventory is low! Give us a call to find out what your home could sell for in today’s market!

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

We are an award winning company offering superior services across Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties!

Sponsored by Hollister Downtown Association

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

C H R I S TMA S T R AD I T I O NS

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Alexis Winder Financial Advisor 615 San Benito St. Suite C Hollister 831-634-0694

Diana Brenneise Financial Advisor 8060 Santa Teresa Blvd.

Suite 140 Gilroy 408-846-7748

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2019 Holiday Car Display

10 am to 2 pm Seventh & San Benito Street

Featuring 2019 Street Festival Winners

Central Coast Muscle Cars & Classics of Hollister

Dec-A-Tree All Day - Veteran’s Plaza

25 Trees decorated by local nonprofit groups.

Donated to San Benito County families in need

by Bourdet’s Christmas Tree Farm

Lights O n Parade

Begins at 5:30 pm - San Benito Street

Christmas Traditions

Photos with Santa & Mrs.Claus

7pm - Veterans’ Memorial Building $10 per photo (no pet photos please)

REAL ESTATE APARTMENT/ CONDO RENTALS

$1,850 Month/$2,350 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath 2 Story Townhouse 1 car garage HOA AVAILABLE MID DECEMBER

BELLAGIO VILLAS

$2,550 Month/$3,050 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath Located at Ridgemark G&CC All new everything gardener included in rent.

2 Bedroom Apartments starting at $2245.

Pool. Park like setting.

Contemporary Landscaping.

1129 Monte Bello Drive Gilroy, CA 95020

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

Great neighborhood , near shopping and schools AVAILABLE DECEMBER 1ST

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

Publish

$2,750 Month/$3,250 Deposit 3 Bed 2 Bath Country living on a cul-de-sac.

Easy access to Hwy 25 and 156 Water and garbage included in rent.

AVAILABLE NOW

HOLLISTER-RENTAL-PROPERTIES.COM

Your Business or Service Ad Here

FINISHED LOTS

HOLLISTER HOME RENTALS

RENTALS

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

$2,200 $2,500 $2,600 $2,400 $2,300

1/1 2/1.5 2/1.5

$1,200 $1,600 $1,900

3/2

$2,000

2/2

$2,400

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

HOLLISTER APARTMENT RENTALS

airparkbusinesscenter.com 831.684.0802

HOLLISTER DUPLEX/TRIPLEX RENTALS SAN JUAN BAUTISTA APARTMENT/DUPLEX RENTALS

HOLLISTER INDUSTRIAL LAND

OFFICE SPACES AVAILABLE Adam Square Business Complex 330 Tres Pinos Rd. Executive Suite available and 1388 Sq. Ft. office with great exposure

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

northpointebusinesscenter.com

831.637.4297

For more information Contact 408.842.5066

HOLLISTER RENTAL PROPERTIES

or email classifieds@newsvmedia.com

For more information, call

831.637.1691

330 Tres Pinos Rd. Ste. B-1

831.637.7337

www.pivetticompany.com Lic# 429006

HOME & GARDEN SERVICES CONCRETE

DOORS

HAULING

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

FENCES

J. Casalegno Concrete

All Residential

South County Cleanup, Demo & Hauling LOW RATES • FREE ESTIMATES CLEAN UP-Yards, homes, properties, rentals & garages DEMO-Bathrooms, kitchens, decks, patios, small buildings HAULING-Garbage, yard waste, rock, sand & mulch POWER WASHING 408.430.3560

Humberto Montes Tree Services

Soares Lumber P.S.G. Fencing

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

408.279.8036

Installed • Finished Repaired • Entry • Patio Closet Pocket And More Call Adam at 408.710.4556

cccraftsman@gmail.com craftmansdooservices.com

CONSTRUCTION

HANDYMAN

Rianda Construction

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

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Quality • Integrity New construction Additions & remodels

408.847.1490 Lic: #649968 Credit cards accepted

408.394.6824

Lic: #7921 Fully Insured

MAGNOLIA LANDSCAPE AND CONCRETE, INC. Specializing, Pavers, Concrete, Irrigation, Sod, Cleanups, All Landscape Construction Serving the Bay Area since 1992 Call for Free Estimates Licensed, Bonded and Insured 408-309-2973 License # 962540

Redwood Fencing Chain Link • Decks Arbors • Hole Drilling

408.842.0260 831.726.2002 Lic. #606051

GARDENING

Gregg’s Complete Gardening Service Wood fences • Clean ups Tree work •Sod Sprinklers • Maintenance Free estimate

Please call or text 831.537.5205

NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Lic# 381833 Bonded & Insured

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

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