Take 25 to Hollister

2012 Community Volunteer Fair

2012-01-27T02:38:00.000-08:00

Are you interested in becoming a volunteer?

Many opportunities are available in San Benito County in various areas. For instance, if you're into history, check out the San Benito County Historical Society or the SJB Plaza History Association. The arts? Mr. O's Academy of the Arts and the San Benito Stage Company are just two nonprofit groups that can use volunteers. And, if you would like to be a natures volunteer, think about being part of Pinnacles Partnership.

You can learn more about volunteer opportunities on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at the Community Volunteer Fair, which is sponsored by the Community Foundation for San Benito and the Sacred Heart Parish School. About 40 local nonprofit groups will be there. The event will take place from 12 to 4 p.m. in the Sacred Heart School Gymnasium at 670 College Street in Hollister. For more info, visit the Community Foundation Web site or call its office at 831-630-1924.

365 + 1 Days

2012-01-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

Heading home on the Bolsa, aka Highway 25

With today's post, I have accomplished my personal goal: To post a daily photo of my hometown—Hollister—or county (San Benito) for one year and a day. Hurrah for me!

By the way, here's what I posted on the first day of my quest.

So, what's next? At least a few days away from the blog. See ya.

Once a 'Baler

2012-01-23T00:23:00.000-08:00

Always a 'Baler! Hollister Haybalers. Go 'Balers!

The sign? From a classroom window in the main building of the high school.

Another View of the Spire

2012-01-22T00:34:00.000-08:00

Yep. But, this time it's a close-up of the beautiful spire of Sacred Heart Church. Click here, here, and here for views of the church spire from afar.

Sacred Heart Church is one sturdy building. It was constructed in 1877, but not at its known location on the corner of Fifth and College Streets. That's right. According to Welcome to Historic Downtown Hollister, a brochure by Sharlene Van Rooy, the church was originally built on the corner of West and Sixth Streets. That's where the Dunne Park Clubhouse is today. The Gothic church was moved to Fifth Street in 1939.

Looking Up: Gable Eyes

2012-01-21T00:15:00.000-08:00

Hot-looking Mediterranean revival eyes, don't you think?

You'll find this red tile rooftop on the colorful building at 910 Monterey Street, which was once upon a time the original Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital.

Dancing at the Veterans Memorial Building

2012-01-20T00:12:00.000-08:00

One of the unique outdoor details of the Veterans Memorial Building

Here's something different and special to do in Hollister, come February: Listen and dance to the big band sound of Mark Russo and the Classy Cats with vocalist Mary Blaser.

Click to enlarge flyer

Jovenes de Antaño, the local senior citizens center, is holding a dinner and dance fundraiser on Saturday, February 12, 2012, 5 to 11 p.m., at the Veterans Memorial Building. The tri-tip dinner will be served at 6 p.m. and the band will perform from 8 to 11 p.m.

The event is open to the public. Tickets are $45 per person. They can be purchased at the door or bought beforehand at:

Jovenes de Antaño, 300 West Street (cross street Third Street)
She's, 620 San Benito Street
Penny-Wise Drugs, 549 San Benito Street
Postal Graphics, 1760 Airline Highway

To hear Mark Russo and the Classy Cats in action, check out the band's sample song list on its Web site.

Looking Up: Courthouse Detail

2012-01-19T00:39:00.000-08:00

This part of the San Benito County Courthouse can be seen from the driveway between the courthouse and the building that houses the San Benito County Office of Education. It's so different from the rest of the courthouse that I wonder if this is actually the old Hall of Records. Anyone know?

The Barn on Line Street

2012-01-18T00:20:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid, many years ago, Line Street was the western boundary of downtown Hollister. Between South Street and Nash Road, orchards mostly lined Line Street. Today, this barn and the surrounding empty field, which was once full of trees, are the last remnants of that era.

Living in Town

2012-01-17T01:14:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid, I thought it would be cool to live in town. I tell the husband that and he replies, "You do."

Technically, yes. We live within the city limits. But, my mind remembers when much of what is now city was county and the neighborhood where we live today was once part orchard and part chicken farm.

I still think it would be cool to live. . .uhm. . . in historical downtown Hollister.

Rain, Rain, Come Our Way

2012-01-16T00:40:00.000-08:00

January, 2011: Green hills and mountains (view from Fremont Peak)

The mountains and hillsides should be sporting some green by now. Let us hope that rain will be making its way soon. According to wunderground.com, our area has a slight chance of getting rain on Wednesday and maybe a better chance on Friday. But, that's it. I hope that changes. The sunny days have been nice. Some rainy days just would be nicer.

Is this Hollister, California?

2012-01-15T00:34:00.000-08:00

It most certainly is.

The white building with the pinkish detail is Pat's Place at the corner of Sally and Fifth Streets.

Photo Opps in San Benito County

2012-01-14T00:12:00.000-08:00

These horseshoes are embedded in the sidewalk across
from the Plaza Stables on Second Street in San Juan Bautista

Hollister. San Juan Bautista. All of San Benito County, for that matter.

I am talking photo opportunities—landscapes, fauna, flora, historical buildings, parades, events, people, and so forth and so on. I ought to know. For the last 356 days (including today) I have been posting a daily photo. My personal goal is to do it for a year plus one day. So, almost there.

There are quite a few blogs and web sites where you'll find photos from around our sweet county. In fact, Take 25 reader Wanda G. sent me a link a couple of months ago that she thought would be of interest. It certainly is. (Wanda, I apologize for taking so long to post it.) Check it out: NoeHill Travels in California: Photographs of historic sites and points of interest in San Benito County.

Here are a few other links I've found that are interesting.
Travel: San Benito County by Nic Coury

Aerial Photograph Collection–San Benito County Index, University Library, UC Santa Cruz

Debi Shearwater's Journeys: San Benito County Birding

Hemming's Blog: Hollister, CA mid-1950s

Do you know of other cool sites? Please share the links in the comments section.

The Marentis House

2012-01-13T00:38:00.001-08:00

The Marentis House in San Juan Bautista is designated a national historic building. A private residence, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. The house was built in 1873 by the original owners, Pedro and Claudia Marentis. Their son, John Marentis, served as the city treasurer for 51 years. San Juan Bautista

Pat's Place

2012-01-12T00:24:00.000-08:00

Lots of stuff here to check out. Don't be fooled when you first walk in. There is a lot more. Quite a lot more in the other room.

Pat's Place opened in 2009 for the specific purpose of raising money for the Community Food Bank of San Benito County. Check out this article from the Free Lance for the details.

Pat's Place is at the corner of Fifth and Sally Streets. For older locals, it's the building that was once the Model French Laundry.

Quien Sabe

2012-01-11T00:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, the view was from Union Road. Today, the sweet view is looking up Quien Sabe Road from the North side. Yep.

A View from Union Road

2012-01-10T00:47:00.000-08:00

One of the sweetest views in San Benito County is from Union Road, just pass the intersection at Airline Highway (aka Highway 25). This is just a bit of that view.

How Do You Enter the Parking Garage?

2012-01-09T00:48:00.000-08:00

The four floor parking garage, as viewed from San Benito Street.

Parking at the Briggs Building parking garage on Fourth and San Benito Streets is free. There are yellow banners on the San Benito Street side of the building that shout Free Parking. You can read them when you're standing in front of the building, but not when you're driving your car and trying to figure how to get into it.

So, I ask again: How do you enter the parking garage?

Fourth Street view.

From Fourth Street?

No.

From San Benito Street?

Nope.

From Monterey Street?

Uh-uh.

From Fifth Street?

Kinda.

Briggs Alley?

Bingo!

You enter the parking garage via Briggs Alley, which you access by driving through the small public parking lot between the Vault and the Granada Theater that is on Fifth Street.

Huh?

Yeah.

So, if anyone says to you during the Farmer's Market season (May through September) that you can conveniently park in the parking garage, know this: Be sure you get there before the farmers and vendors set up their booths and tables.

Update: I forgot to mention that Briggs Alley is one-way. I have been told that on Farmer's Market Day, people are allowed to drive the reverse way on Briggs Alley so that they can enter the parking garage. Seems to me the powers-that-be ought to make that change permanently.

That gap between the garage and the other building
(Granada Theater) is Briggs Alley.

Costumes?

2012-01-08T00:12:00.000-08:00

They—the costumes—can probably be bought at Lost Treasures on 5th Street. (Cross street is Sally Street.) But, one never knows. They may be available at Maverick Welding Supply. It's difficult to say which building the sign post is on. That's how it looked last week.

Things to Watch for at the Airport

2012-01-07T01:17:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite "caution" signs is over at the airport. It's an essential sign, no doubt about it. It also brings up silly thoughts as well. You can find the sign near the new dog park.

Skateboard Dancer

2012-01-06T00:42:00.000-08:00

This photo was luckily clicked as the skateboarder, unaware, gracefully zoomed down the sidewalk.

A Traditional Barber Shop

2012-01-05T00:55:00.000-08:00

The B&R Barber Shop is a very old-time establishment in Hollister. You'll find it on Fifth Street, between East and San Benito Streets.

A Good Reason to Close on Sunday

2012-01-04T00:26:00.000-08:00

I like the store hours of Second Tyme Around, the vintage furniture store at the corner of Fifth and East Streets. The store opened last summer.

New Fire Station Going Up

2012-01-03T00:46:00.000-08:00

Until construction of the downtown fire station at the corner of Sally and Fifth Streets is complete, the Hollister Fire Department is temporarily located in the vacant lot on Fourth Street, behind the west end Briggs Building Garage.

The old station was demolished earlier this year. Being built is a two-story facility with twice the space of the old station, which was a converted tractor garage. According to this local news article, the station should be completed within one year's time.

Evening Approaches

2012-01-02T00:34:00.000-08:00

Above Sunnyslope Road

You never know what you may see while walking just before sunset.

Onward and Forward Through 2012

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Whoo-hoo! 2012! Here we are heading north on Union Road, crossing the bridge.

Salud! to you, dear Take 25 Readers. May we each forge confidently forward through another year.

Happy New Year! ~ Su-sieee! Mac

Glancing into Back Yards

2011-12-31T00:47:00.000-08:00

I turn away from the historical hoosegow in the San Juan Bautista State Historic Park. Voila! An enormous-looking barrel is in my sight. Of course, I had to click the camera.

Christmas Decor in San Juan Bautista

2011-12-30T00:33:00.001-08:00

This is one of the beautiful panels that are part of the Christmas decorations that line the main drag of San Juan Bautista. I think most, if not all, of the panels of of the saints for which the California missions are named.

Fancy Brickwork Leads to Burritos

2011-12-29T00:57:00.000-08:00

You'll find this patch of brick pavement in front of La Villa de Jerez Taqueria at 512 San Benito Street in downtown Hollister. The taqueria serves yummy burritos by the way.

The year 1924 must mean when the pavers were laid. I've wondered whether this shop was the only one with a brick entry way. Anyone know what business was there then? I think the storefront was a shoe store during the 1960s. But, I could be confusing it with a shop in Salinas.

The name "Simons" may refer to the Simons Brick Company, which was a Los Angeles company that manufactured bricks during the 1920s.

Looking Up: Just Hanging

2011-12-28T00:21:00.000-08:00

Birds like hanging out at coffee shops too. These birds were sitting above Mars Hill Coffeehouse. The drivers who made sure not to hit me as I was taking their photo from the street most likely thought I was nuts. Thanks for not hitting me. :-)

By the way, cool building work.

100 Things I Like: Hollister!

2011-12-27T01:22:00.000-08:00

Today's post is my last of the 100 things that I like about living in Hollister. There are more than 100 things, of course. Much more.

I was born in Hollister at the old Hazel Hawkins Hospital on Monterey Street. I went to the local schools and after several decades continue to be friends with many of the kids I grew up with. In fact, the 1971 Balers offer a scholarship to graduating seniors. At 19, I moved to San Francisco to attend college and, except for a couple short moves back to Hollister, I lived in SF and the East Bay for about 30 years. I've visited my family regularly through the years, but I honestly never thought I'd move back.

When the husband and I moved to Hollister 8 or 9 years ago, I did not realize how much I missed the area—the open spaces, the expansive sky, the surrounding mountains, the farm lands, the back roads, and the cute downtown. As a kid, other than school stuff, I took part in few of the local activities, including the San Benito County Fair. That has changed. For instance, one of my goals has been to win a ribbon in something at the fair. Checked!

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Veterans Memorial Auditorium

2011-12-26T00:57:00.000-08:00

The Veterans Memorial Building on San Benito Street and Seventh Street was built in 1927 in honor of the Veterans of World War I. For more details about the history, click here. Today, the building is rented for both public and private events.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Walking the St. Francis Retreat Grounds

2011-12-25T01:59:00.000-08:00

The St. Francis Retreat was part of San Justo Rancho, the Mexican land grant that eventually was divided and became San Juan Bautista and Hollister. The retreat is up in the hills above San Juan Bautista. Originally the grounds was home to the Flint and Bixby families who bought the land grant with Colonel Hollister. There is a lot of history about the place. Click here to read about it.

Happy Christmas, dear readers!

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Christmas Lights

2011-12-24T02:31:00.000-08:00

Of all the houses decorated with Christmas lights, Santa Clauses, and nativity signs, this one was my favorite.

My wish to each and every one of you is Peace, Joy, Love, and Happiness. Merry Christmas!

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Snow on the Range

2011-12-23T00:22:00.000-08:00

This was taken two years ago. Click here for the original post.

If it was raining right now, I'm sure it would be snowing in the Diablo Range.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Seeing What's at the Back

2011-12-22T00:53:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered what was in the back of the buildings in downtown Hollister? This photo, for instance, shows the back of part of this, the east side of San Benito Street, near Fourth Street.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Main Street

2011-12-21T02:32:00.000-08:00

Heading north on San Benito Street

Until I moved back to Hollister several years ago, I rarely, if ever, referred to the main drag through town by its actual name. Now, I'm in the habit of saying San Benito Street, and it's weird whenever I say Main Street or even hear it as such.

A few interesting things about the main street of ours:
• San Benito Street (north end) turns into San Felipe Road at Santa Ana Road.
• Until the 1980s, the south end of San Benito Street stopped at Nash Road, by the high school. Today, it runs south for a mile or so more to Union Road
• San Benito Street is originally part of highway 25. Technically, it may still be highway 25. The city of Hollister built the 25 bypass a few years ago so that it can claim the main street as its own. The move is part of the plan to revitalize downtown. So far as I know, Caltrans hasn't completed the transfer.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

P.S. Thank you, Mr. Arrmac for pointing out my grammatical errors, which dear readers, who're reading this P.S. will never know.

100 Things I Like: The Library

2011-12-20T01:31:00.000-08:00

I shall always think of the San Benito County Free Library as The Library. It is, after all, the first library from which I ever borrowed books and was introduced to so many exciting worlds and possibilities.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Sunsets

2011-12-19T00:29:00.000-08:00

I caught this one as the husband and I were driving home on Bolsa Road, aka Highway 25. Of course, I was in the passenger seat.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Filipino American Community Christmas Ball

2011-12-18T02:14:00.001-08:00

The Buffet Line

Last night was the annual Christmas Ball of the Filipino American Community of San Benito County. The social club has been around since 1976.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Southside Road

2011-12-17T00:47:00.000-08:00

Southside Road is one of the back roads that run from Hollister to Tres Pinos. It kinda runs parallel, albeit meanderingly, to Highway 25. It's a more pleasant car or bicycle ride than the highway, that's for sure.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: When Leaves Change Color

2011-12-16T02:16:00.000-08:00

This was taken from Vineyard Estates above Southside Road. What a view, don'cha think?

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Lone Tree Road

2011-12-15T00:38:00.000-08:00

Lone Tree Road in the spring.

Pedaling my bicycle up and down the whole length of Lone Tree Road is definitely on my bucket list. What a satisfying ride that will be. Until I get myself in shape, I shall happily take the jaunt by car.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Ella's Italian Restaurant

2011-12-14T02:45:00.000-08:00

Ella, the lovely owner of Ella's Italian Restaurant, taught me the best way to drink espresso—with a sliver of lemon peel. It's details like that which bring the husband and me back to dine time and again.

And, of course, there are the yummy factor, the creative menu, and the use of local ingredients. The other night, for example, we ended our meal with Candy Cap mushroom ice cream. Yep, that's a photo of it. The mushroom grows exclusively in Northern California. The first bite reminded me of black walnut ice cream. I could be satisfied just having a dish of the ice cream for dinner. Yes, I would. Yummm.

Ella's Italian Restaurant is located at 1709 Airline Highway (Highway 25), in the Heritage Plaza Shopping Center on the southeast corner of Airline and Sunnyslope Road.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

Note to FCC: I wasn't paid or given anything to write what I just wrote. Unless it counts that my dish of Candy Cap mushroom ice cream and a cup of espresso on the house the other night because it was my birthday. Still, I've been to Ella's countless of times before then. So, there.

100 Things I Like: The South View from Quien Sabe Road

2011-12-13T01:07:00.000-08:00

Misty. A bit of rain. That's how it was yesterday afternoon when I took this photo from that almost last bend before the straightaway down to Highway 25 and Tres Pinos. I like this view anytime of the year. But, on a clear day when the hillsides and mountains are green—wow!

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Sacred Heart Church Spire

2011-12-12T02:05:00.000-08:00

In the early 1970s, downtown Hollister was still surrounded by orchards, orchards, and more orchards. During the spring, I liked to go up to Park Hill and see the forest of green, which included the trees lining the residential streets. Peeking over the trees was the white spire of Sacred Heart Church.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Post Office Mural

2011-12-11T01:39:00.000-08:00

The wooden mural, created during the 1930s Depression, is a beautiful piece of work. But, I also like that mural because every time I see it, I'm reminded of when the mural was hanging in the post office on Fifth Street. I always felt transported to another place when I entered those doors. It always seemed so dark in there. A sense of reverence, too.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Heavenly Bakery

2011-12-10T00:35:00.001-08:00

Lemon cake, lemon cupcake, and ciabatta bread. Heavenly. The bakery's cinnamon roll, yum.

Heavenly Bakery is open 7 days a week. Yaay!

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The View from the Garage

2011-12-09T02:53:00.000-08:00

December 2009

I admit it. I have yet to park in the Briggs Building parking garage on Fourth Street, which you access via Briggs Alley. That you get to via the small parking lot between the Granada Theater and the Vault on Fifth Street.

Hmmm, I wonder how many people don't park in the garage because they can't find the way in. You can't turn onto Briggs Alley from Monterey Street, because the alley is one way, heading west. And, there's no entrance from Fourth Street. That's too bad. The garage really would be an idea place to park when it's the Farmers Market Day.

But, I digressed. The husband and I like to climb up the four or five flights to the top for the exercise and the view. Also, the art.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Street Festival & Car Show

2011-12-08T04:08:00.001-08:00

It's chilly. That's a good enough reason to mention a Hollister event that takes place in the summer. Memories of heat to warm things up, you know.

The Annual Street Festival and Car Show is sponsored by the Hollister Downtown Association. Click here to check out its photos of this past summer's event.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Serendipity Gift Shop

2011-12-07T03:18:00.001-08:00

Serendipity's window display in 2010

Haven't stepped into the shop at 616 San Benito Street yet? It's a happy chance you'll like what you see. I can usually find something for the sister-in-law there. And, she's quite a difficult person to shop for, I tell you what.

Instead of me telling you what joy and fun you'll find at Serendipty, check out the shop's Web site. Better yet, check it out in person.

A note to FTC: I wasn't paid or given anything to write what I just wrote. So, move along.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Ross Building

2011-12-06T02:53:00.001-08:00

The Ross Building is such an anomaly among the other historic buildings on the Fifth Street block between San Benito and Monterey Streets. There it stands confidently oblongish, low, and "soft" among the straight and sharp angles of the much older and taller buildings. The Ross Building makes me think of space aliens and ice cream. Not both at the same time, of course. That would be weird.

At the back of the building is a freight elevator. Obviously, it doesn't go up, unless it's a portal to another dimension. See, space aliens. If only. According to what I've been told, the original owner designed the structure so that it could be converted into a supermarket or a warehouse in case it failed as an office building. Hmmm, that's a lot of ice cream one could haul to the basement.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

Looking Up: What Do You Think You're Looking At?

2011-12-05T03:24:00.001-08:00

Here's another not-so-common view of a building we so frequently see when we wander in historical downtown Hollister. If you're a local, I know you recognize it.

Today's post is Day 316 of my personal challenge to post everyday for a year. I don't know about you, but I'm impressed.

100 Things I Like: Signs

2011-12-04T02:20:00.001-08:00

This sign just makes me wonder if anyone does park their car downtown, between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m., on Sundays. But, not so much that I need to actually go and find out.

Here are a few other signs that have made me think of the absurd: Sign 1, Sign 2, Sign 3, and one more.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: 5th & San Benito Streets

2011-12-03T01:42:00.001-08:00

Represented here is architectural design from late 1800s,
1930s, and 1990s (the Briggs Building behind the Vault).

On the four corners of Fifth and San Benito Streets stand some of the oldest and tallest buildings in Hollister.

The Vault is located on the NW corner. Built in 1931, it was originally the Bank of America. Lots of Art Deco going on with that building, both in and out.
The Italianate building on the NE corner went up around 1874. Its first owner was William Palmtag, one of the founders of Hollister.
The old Elks Lodge building stands on the SE corner.
Standing empty, the old Pendergrass building is on the SW corner. A once-upon-a-time hotel and office building, its construction was completed in 1927. The building was owned by Jesse Pendergrass, a Hollister mayor.

Much of this information came from Welcome to Historic Downtown Hollister, a walking tour brochure, which I obtained from the San Benito County Chamber of Commerce. The brochure was put together by Sharlene Van Rooy.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Old Elks Lodge Building

2011-12-02T00:26:00.001-08:00

The old Elks Lodge building on the southeast corner of San Benito and Fifth Streets is an absolute beauty. The folks who remodeled it several years ago did a great job bringing out the details. Look at those golden decorative pieces under the eaves, which glow even more with the reflection of the setting sun. And, how about that slim ornamental column embedded in the corner of the building.

One of these days, I'll find out the five W's about the building, such as: Who designed it? When was it built? What materials were used? How long did it take to build? Where did the Elks actually meet in the building? Why did they decide to leave it?

Based on the little that I've seen of the inside, I'd say beauty is more than skin deep with this building.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Using Fresh, Local Products

2011-12-01T00:21:00.001-08:00

Can you really make butter by shaking cream in a jar?

Yep. I tried it yesterday with much success.

Step One: Buy Claravale Farm Cream at Bertuccio's. Located in Paicines, Claravale Farm sells certified raw milk, which they get from Jersey cows. Yeah, there is a difference in taste.

Step Two: Find someone to shake cream into butter with you. Alternatively, wait until another person is hanging out in the kitchen or nearby. For me, it was after breakfast, while the husband was still reading the newspaper. He kinda had an idea of what was happening.

Step Three: Get a clean jar with a lid. Pour whatever amount of the cream that you want into the jar. Screw lid on tightly. I experimented with about a 1/3 to 1/2 jar full of cream.

Step Four: Shake. Shake. Shake. Maybe do a little dance as you shake. After a minute or two, hand jar off to your captive butter-shaking partner. Watch him shake. Shake. Shake. Take turns until you hear no more sloshing in the jar—about seven to 10 minutes.

Step Five: Open the jar. You should see a coagulation of yellow. That's butter. Close jar again and shake vigorously. You should get some liquid. That's buttermilk. Carefully pour the buttermilk into another container.

Step Six: Add a bit of water to the jar, and shake again to remove any more buttermilky stuff from your butter. Pour liquid into your receptacle. There you go, fresh unsalted butter. And, fresh buttermilk!

The next time I make butter, I'll be sure to have a loaf of bread from Heavenly Bakery on hand.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

First Annual San Benito Holiday Cheer

2011-11-30T01:02:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, December 3, many of the local businesses of Hollister and San Juan Bautista will be participating in the First Annual San Benito Holiday Cheer. It is a local shop hop. To add to the fun, each business will be raffling a basket or bowl full of goodies. Sounds great!

For more info, check out the flyer below, which was distributed by the Hollister Downtown Association. Double-click on it for a larger version. If you still can't read it, click here to download a copy of the flyer.

By the way, San Juan Bautista will be holding its annual Holiday in Lights Parade on Saturday evening. Click here for more details.

Annual Winter Magic Bazaar and Luncheon

2011-11-30T00:23:00.001-08:00

The ceiling at the old Hazel Hawkins Hospital building on Monterey Street

Today is the holiday bazaar that the Hazel Hawkins Hospital Auxiliary puts on every year. Some handcrafted goods, some vintage items from the Hazel Thrift Store, some new items, and a lot of good cheer.

The place: The Veterans Memorial Building on San Benito Street (corner of Seventh Street). The time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch will be served between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

100 Things I Like: Walking Around San Juan Bautista

2011-11-29T00:49:00.001-08:00

April, 2010: The San Juan Cemetery also known as the Larios Cemetery

Strolling the shops in San Juan Bautisa is fun. So is roaming the grounds of the mission and the San Juan Bautista State Historic Park. Next time you're in the Mission City, enjoy wandering outside the usual tourist perimeter.

For instance, take a walk up to the cemetery at the northwest end of the city. You'll see some glorious views from up there. And, if you're into wandering cemeteries, you won't be disappointed. You'll find eroding wooden crosses marking the grave sites of unknown pioneers as well as elaborate monuments of city notables. On on the way up or down, you may see a very cool red adobe house that looks like it belongs in Santa Fe. Don't ask me which street because I don't remember. That's the surprise of wandering.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Fremont Peak State Park

2011-11-28T01:22:00.001-08:00

This was taken in January 2011 from Fremont Peak State Park.
I'm looking towards the northwest. That light stretch of blue beneath
the Santa Cruz mountains is Monterey Bay. For a look-see of the
southeast, click here.

From Fremont Peak, the Pacific Ocean looks like it's not so far away. Ha! Fremont Peak stands over 3,100 feet tall, one of the tallest mountains in San Benito County. It's so worth a drive up to this small state park, which is near San Juan Bautista. The hike up to the highest point is only half a mile from the parking lot. There are a few other trails to explore as well.

Before heading up, check out the Fremont Peak State Park web page to be sure it's open. California has been closing some of its parks due to lack of funds.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: After the Parade

2011-11-27T04:15:00.001-08:00

The Clock Tower

One of the fun things about the Lights On Celebration parade is being downtown after dark. When the parade is over, people spill out to the middle of San Benito Street and stroll up and down for a while. For a look-see of parade photos, check out the album at Take 25's Facebook page. Here's the public link to it.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Downtown Holiday Night Lights

2011-11-26T00:46:00.001-08:00

2010 Downtown Holiday Night Lights

Tonight will a great night to see them for yourself, as well as the 2011 Lights On Celebration Parade that will start at 5:30 p.m.

If you don't know by now, the 2011 Lights on Celebration is an all-day event. Click this link for the schedule.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

Looking Up: Corner of Third and San Benito Streets

2011-11-25T01:45:00.001-08:00

Here's another angle of the Clock Tower that I bet many of you haven't ever noticed. For other angles, check out this link.

100 Things I LIke: The Countryside

2011-11-24T02:28:00.001-08:00

Living and working in this beautiful countryside is one of the many things that I appreciate.

I am also thankful to you dear Take 25 readers for your virtual visits. Happy Thanks giving to you and yours.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

Shop Locally: Small Business Saturday

2011-11-23T00:43:00.001-08:00

From inside San Benito Bene during the summer

Small Business Saturday will be this Saturday, November 26. It's a wonderful alternative to Black Friday. You support the shops and restaurants of Hollister and San Juan Bautista. You don't have to drive out of the county. And, if you commute daily, you get a chance to spend quality time in one or both cities.

For a listing of Hollister and San Juan businesses, check out these links:

Hollister Downtown Association Member Directory
San Benito County Chamber of Commerce Member Directory
San Juan Bautista: Shop San Juan!

By the way, this Saturday will also be the Lights On Celebration in Hollister, which runs from 10 a.m. to until Santa and Mrs. Santa call it a night. There'll be a holiday boutique at the Veterans Memorial building from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The parade starts at 5:30 p.m.

100 Things I Like: The Knife & Fork Cafe

2011-11-22T02:11:00.001-08:00

A bit of greenery and the mural reflects in a glass of wine.

The Knife & Fork Cafe on San Benito Street is a great place to meet up with friends, new and old, to eat some fine food and drink a glass (or two) of wine. Sitting either indoors or outside in the alleyway is both enjoyable.

Two words: lemon cake! Droooooool.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Penny Wise Drug Store

2011-11-21T01:09:00.001-08:00

My five top reasons for shopping at Penny Wise Drug in downtown Hollister (east side of San Benito Street, between 5th and 6th Streets):

5. Every time I enter Penny Wise, I remember the aroma of the hot popcorn that was available for sale when the store used to be Roscoe, one of the five & dime stores in Hollister when I was a kid hundreds of years ago. The other one was Cornet, which is now Muenzer's on Fifth Street. I used to go out the back door of one shop, cross Wentz Alley, and enter the back door of the other shop.

4. I can usually find fun, creative, and unique gift items at the drug store, from scarves to jewelry to singing bears to jigsaw puzzles to glass giftware to baby clothes.

3. Penny Wise Drug is a local business run by the Rosati family since 1948. It's the only independent pharmacy in San Benito County. I like to shop locally as much as possible.

2. Customer service! One Wednesday, I went in to buy over-the-counter iron pills, but the kind I wanted had run out. Joan told her brother, Stephen, the pharmacist, to order them. I came back the following Monday to buy the pills. As I was walking towards the counter, Joan asked, "Did you remember to get the iron pills?" I went in for something else on Tuesday, and just before I walked out, pharmacist sister Jeanne called out, "Did you get your iron pills?"

1. Joan, Jeanne, Stephen, and Marie Rosati!!!!

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

Note to FCC: I wasn't paid or given anything to write what I just wrote. So, move along.

100 Things I Like: Proximity to Monterey Bay

2011-11-20T01:23:00.001-08:00

The Pacific Ocean is about 40 minutes away. Maybe less, depending on the traffic and who's driving.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Lights On Celebration Parade

2011-11-19T00:05:00.001-08:00

2010 Lights On Celebration Parade

The 21st annual Lights On Celebration Parade will be next Saturday, November 26, 2011, in downtown Hollister. Sparkle, sparkle. Dear readers, take note, this year, the Lights On Celebration is a whole day and evening event, culminating with the parade.

10:30 AM to 8:30 PM: Holiday Boutique, Veterans Memorial Building
During the day: Holiday Car Show
4:30 PM: Pre-parade Entertainment
5:30 PM: The Parade
Post-parade Time: Photos with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus

Thank you, Hollister Downtown Association, for putting this all together for our town!

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Swaying Garlands Up High

2011-11-18T01:30:00.001-08:00

The Christmas garlands were strung up above San Benito Street yesterday. Early, no doubt. But, so what? We all need some cheer these days.

The Hollister Downtown Association (HDA) is preparing for the Lights On Celebration on Saturday, November 26. This year's going to be an all day affair. There will be a car show during the day, the parade in the evening, and a holiday boutique happening throughout. Click here, for more details at the HDA's Web site.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Country Rose Gallery & Frame

2011-11-17T01:16:00.001-08:00

Have you ever been in the Country Rose Gallery & Frame on San Benito Street? That shop right next to the gas station on the corner of San Benito & Seventh? No, I didn't think so.

You don't need to be an artist or have something to frame to want or need to walk through the door. I'm not an artist, though I wish. It's the art supplies that lure me in. I'm such a sucker for pastel chalk.

Christmas is around the corner. If you're willing to think outside of the box, you can find lots of great ideas for gifts or stocking stuffers there. Trust me.

Note to FCC: Honestly, I wasn't paid or given anything to write what I just wrote. So, move along.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Irrigation Pipes

2011-11-16T02:33:00.001-08:00

A farm at the southern end of Cienega Road

Yes, irrigation pipes.

My dad irrigated fields for many of the farmers in San Benito County, from after WWII to the early 1970s. When I was a small kid in late 50s and early 60s, I used to go to the fields with him. He trusted me to close the irrigation pipe's water gate to a row when he held up his shovel on the other side of the field and waved it to tell me the water had reached the end of that row. He also had faith in that small kid's tiny fat hands to tightly close the valve on the water pump at the end of the work day.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Livin' the Green Dream

2011-11-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Livin' the Green Dream is a cute little shop in San Juan Bautista that sells eco-friendly products, such as glasses made from wine bottles, purses from recycled candy wrappers, soaps from goat milk, and green cleaning products. Many of the items are made in the USA, with some from the local area. I don't know about you, but I like that. I can head over there first before ordering online or driving out of the county.

Livin' the Green Dream is located at 33 Washington Street, next to the Chinese restaurant. For more info, check out its Web site or its Facebook page.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

Late Shopping Night in San Juan Bautista

2011-11-14T00:56:00.001-08:00

San Juan Bautista is always a great place to wander when you're into shopping for gifts. This Wednesday evening, November 16, 2011, many of the shops and restaurants in San Juan Bautista will be open from 5 to 8 p.m. to give Christmas shoppers a head start. According to a flyer I saw, many of the businesses will be offering discounts.

Shops that will be open on "Late Shopping Night" Wednesday are:

Aggie's Porch
Attic Angels
Bear Flag Gallery Mall
Bear's Hideaway
Bluebird Antiques and Collectibles
Class Connection
Dreaming Tree
Fools Gold Vintage Collectique
Guatemalan Boutique
It's Shabby and Chic
La Dolce Vita
Little Red Barn
Livin' the Green Dream
Mission Clocks
Mrs. B's Treasures at the Plaza
Nicky's Fair Trade
Nooks-N-Crannies
Paloma Paloma
San Juan Bautista Antiques
Seasons Handcrafts
Southwest Roundup
Sweet Envy
Sweet Pea Antiques
Tops A Rock Shop
Vintage Corner

100 Things I Like: When Green Happens

2011-11-13T02:19:00.000-08:00

Spring 2011, above Sunnyslope Road

It has begun. The gradual transformation of our hillsides into green.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

2011 Veterans Day Parade

2011-11-12T02:15:00.000-08:00

Thank you, Veterans of the U.S. military, one and all, for your service to protect us and our democracy!

Yesterday was a cold and windy day. But, that didn't stop this year's Veterans Day Parade. For more parade photos, click over to the photo album at Take 25's Facebook page.

100 Things I Like: That Dancing Pig

2011-11-11T00:45:00.000-08:00

The dancing pig stands on the corner of Tres Pinos Road and Highway 25 on some Friday afternoons. She/he bounces and shimmies and shakes her/his sign at passing traffic to let folks know that they can pick up some yummy tasting Mansmith's BBQ for dinner.

The Mansmith's BBQ truck is in Hollister only on Friday afternoons. The truck is not where the dancing pig is, but about a half-mile or so south on Highway 25 from where the dancing pig stands. The truck is in a gravel parking lot on the right side. Don't worry, you can't help but notice it.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Whimsical

2011-11-10T03:57:00.000-08:00

Do you think this is how E.T. would've transferred money to his home planet?

Hollister is full of whimsy. There are the robot, Sideshow Bob, a bunch of Sideshow Bobs, and that man in the tree, for instance.

As for the money transferring satellite, you can see it in the shopping section with Goodwill on Tres Pinos Road.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Veterans Day Parade

2011-11-09T02:54:00.000-08:00

Veterans Day Parade, 2010

The 9th annual Veterans Day Parade will take place in downtown Hollister this Friday, November 11, at 1:30 p.m. To learn more about the parade, including its history. head over to this page at the Veterans Coalition of San Benito County Web site.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Alleys of Hollister

2011-11-08T01:22:00.000-08:00

The husband and I like walking or pedaling our bikes through the alleys of Hollister. Wentz Alley is probably the most familiar of all the alleys in downtown Hollister. What? Can't place it. That's the alley where the biker mural is painted on the side of Johnny's Bar.

Main, Elmore, Furlong, Hodges, Canal, Convent, Long, Swope, Grubb, and Smith Alleys are a few of the other alleys in town. Try to find them, why don't you?

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Recology San Benito County

2011-11-07T01:51:00.000-08:00

Recology San Benito County offers a comprehensive garbage and recycling system, which I have taken for granted. Hazardous waste, yard waste, recyclable items, electronic waste, you name it, Recology can probably pick it up or tell you where to drop it off. Here's its Web site link to access a lot of info about recycling and garbage collection.

By the way, check out the sides of the Recology garbage trucks for student art work that won in its annual poster contest.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Super Taqueria

2011-11-06T01:18:00.000-07:00

The first time the husband and I walked into Super Taqueria, we walked right back out. The garbage can was overflowing and flies were buzzing around it. Gracias, pero no. That was eight years ago.

Earlier this year, we needed nutrition quickly and craving burritos. since Super Taqueria was nearby, we decided to give it a try. All this time, we could've been eating yummy burritos at a rather affordable price. As for the trash problem. None that I can see.

Super Taqueria is located at 460 Tres Pinos Road (north side).

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Robot

2011-11-05T01:06:00.000-07:00

When I'm walking, I discover things I've missed when I'm driving, or even riding my bicycle. Who knows how long this robot has been residing down at the cannery? I wonder how many times I have quickly glanced down that driveway on San Benito Street and just saw nothing but tanks.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Pinnacle Farm Stand

2011-11-04T02:14:00.000-07:00

Fresh, organic, and yummy-licious locally grown vegetables and fruit. That's why the husband and I like to head over to the Pinnacle Farm Stand in San Juan Valley almost every Saturday. The farm stand is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I LIke: Seeing New Heights

2011-11-03T01:07:00.000-07:00

I have always wondered what it looks like inside the old Elk Lodge on Fifth and San Benito Streets. It only took me several decades to finally find out. Well, at the least the stairways.

Yesterday morning, the husband and I stepped inside and climbed the stairs to the top floor. This is part of the front stairway. Beautiful, huh? It reminds me of the stairways of the old buildings on Market Street in San Francisco. The back stairway is all carpeted and modern looking. Of course, I prefer huffing and puffing up the magnificent front stairway.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

Coming Up: Live Music at Mars Hill

2011-11-02T02:50:00.000-07:00

Just got word that Bluegrass Duets from the Bay Area, as well as local musician Rich Mortela playing at Mars Hill (San Benito and Sixth Streets) this Saturday evening, November 5.

100 Things I Like: Tres Pinos

2011-11-02T02:20:00.000-07:00

Tres Pinos is an unincorporated town in San Benito County, which is about 5 miles south of Hollister. Population of Tres Pinos is 476, according to Wikipedia. Once upon a time, Tres Pinos was a large shipping center for hay. The Southern Pacific even ran a railroad line to the town. Click here for more history about Tres Pinos. Today, Highway 25 runs through the town.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I LIke: The Trap Door

2011-11-01T00:12:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like wandering into a building I've been in more than once and seeing something I hadn't noticed before, especially when it was staring right at me each and every time. This time it was the trap door in the Galeria Tonantzin in San Juan Bautista. Duh! And, of course, I went gaga over it.

Fortunately, the woman hanging out at the front counter was happy to tell the husband and me something about what was behind the trap door. It opens to a once-upon-a-time tunnel system beneath the mission city. She was told that the other end of the tunnel came out in the building where the priests live at Mission San Juan Bautista. It just made me want to know more. How about you?

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Frazier Lake Road

2011-10-31T01:00:00.000-07:00

The husband and I often take Frazier Lake Road back from Gilroy so we can enjoy the countryside even more unhurriedly. As you can see, it's a great road to catch the sunset, and, I bet, a sunrise.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Cienega Road

2011-10-30T00:57:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about living in Hollister is that it doesn't take long to drive to the middle of nothing but hills, trees, total nature. Funny thing about Cienega Road is that time seems to go slower driving from south to north, then north to south.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Mission San Juan Bautista

2011-10-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

Mission San Juan Bautista is over 200 years old. Amazing, huh. For more about the mission, start here.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Wapple House Museum

2011-10-28T02:12:00.000-07:00

This is part of the WWII display that was shown back in December 2009.
Thank you San Benito County Historical Society for allowing me
to take photos that December afternoon.

The Wapple House Museum, also known as the San Benito County Historical Museum, is located at the corner of Fifth and West Streets. It's open every weekend. The hours are 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Community Band Concerts

2011-10-27T01:01:00.000-07:00

2010 Pacific Brass Band Concert

It'll soon be that time of the year again when we'll have a chance to listen to the Pacific Brass Band and the Watsonville Community Band. Both bands are composed of musicians from San Benito, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Monterey counties.

The Pacific Brass Band will perform a concert on Sunday, November 13, 2011, at 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church. This is a fundraiser for the local YMCA.

The Watsonville Community Band will perform its Holiday Concert on Sunday, December 11, 2011, at 2 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Building.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Hollister Haybalers

2011-10-26T01:29:00.000-07:00

Haybalers—Balers, for short—is the nickname for San Benito High School, aka Hollister High School. The most coolest high school nickname around. But, then, being a former Baler, I am quite biased. Want to know more about the unique nickname? Click here to read a Sports Illustrated article written in 1986 by Bruce Anderson, also a former Baler.
By the way, the Baler Homecoming Parade is this Friday afternoon, October 28. As always, it'll start at the high school and make its way to downtown Hollister. According to the high school Web site, it'll begin around 2 p.m.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Agricultural Machinery

2011-10-25T01:58:00.000-07:00

A bunch of birds running en masse down Cienega Road?

No, a tractor.

Just as cool to imagine or to see slowly making its way.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The View from Cienega Road

2011-10-24T00:48:00.000-07:00

This is looking northwesterly from the high point on Cienega Road. Until this moment, as I'm looking at the photo, I realize that way down yonder beyond the hill tops (mountain tops?) is more than just San Juan Valley. Here's how the view looks during the Spring.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: Santa Ana Mountain

2011-10-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

That's a view of Santa Ana Mountain on a late afternoon. The husband and I are on John Smith Road, the curvy part through the hills before you come out to the wow! view of Santa Ana Valley.

When I used to not live in Hollister, and came to visit my family, I knew I was home the moment I saw Santa Ana Mountain from the Bolsa. This mountain peak was what I saw in the near distance from our back yard everyday when we lived on Hillcrest.

For different views of Santa Ana Mountain, please click here. For a look upclose from Lone Tree Road, please click here.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

100 Things I Like: The Growing Cycle on the Bolsa

2011-10-22T01:46:00.000-07:00

As you drive in or out of Hollister on the Bolsa (Highway 25), you can see food grow right before your eyes. For real. Day in, day out. All year round.

Sometimes, like yesterday, you can see plowed fields ready to be sown. . .

while nearby fields are being harvested. . .

We're rather fortunate.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.

A Scar-y Tree in Hollister

2011-10-21T00:45:00.000-07:00

It doesn't take much to scare me. This tree's scars, for instance. Sure, I stopped and took a photo. But, it was in broad daylight and the husband was with me. Where is this tree? In the neighborhood on the southwest side of Park Hill.

100 Things I Like: No Traffic Jams

2011-10-20T01:39:00.000-07:00

Absolutely none. So what, if I have to wait through another cycle of lights to turn left from San Benito Street onto Tres Pinos Road, or from Sunnyslope Road onto Highway 25. That totally beats the 30 minutes, sometimes 45 minutes, of driving four or five blocks in San Francisco to get onto an exit to the Bay Bridge during the early afternoon commute, which I used to do for a short while many years ago. I won't even grumble about the stop and go traffic on the bridge. So, yes, when it comes to traffic, we have it made in Hollister.

For more 100 Things I Like About Living in Hollister, click on that link.