Find your Fantasy!

Journey back in time to the Northern California Renaissance Faire, taking place each weekend from Sept. 17 through Oct. 16. Join us at Casa de Fruta, near Hollister, where the grounds are transformed into Willingtown, a village under the rule of Queen Elizabeth I. Find your fantasy, join the merriment, get into character and explore a fantasy-world rife with exotic performances, activities and music.

Attendees can capture the Renaissance aesthetic by donning costumes and dressing as a character of the time. The Belrose costume rental store offers the chance to dress as a person of any social status: a peasant, gypsy, pirate, knight, merchant, nobility or even royalty! There are also nine clothing vendors who have costumes that you can purchase, allowing you to take your fantasy home. Be sure to complete the look with face painting, hair braiding, garlands, hats, jewelry and other accessories.

The Renaissance … READ MORE

Morgan Hill’s Annual Street Bash Returns for 27th Year

Ten years ago Carol Kromer opened The Little Gym of Morgan Hill, and she’s been participating in Taste of Morgan Hill ever since.
Connecting with community has always been important for Cheryl Kromer and other local business owners.

By Kimberly Ewertz

What’s unique about the city of Morgan Hill? It’s the people, and their endless commitment to the community they love.

Carol Kromer, owner of The Little Gym of Morgan Hill, is one of these people. A mother of four and former gymnast, it’s not surprising that Kromer combined her two passions to open the gym 10 years ago. Her connection with Morgan Hill has only grown over that time, in part through events like Taste of Morgan Hill, which will celebrate its 27th year as it takes over parts of downtown Sept. 24-25.

The first Taste was held on a … READ MORE

Buying new construction

LENDING OPTIONS When buying in a new development, homebuyers can choose between builder financing or a third party lender.

Benefits of going with an in-house lender
By Jayson Stebbins

New developments and new homes are going up fast all over the county. Most builders will recommend that you use their mortgage company, whether it is a subsidiary of the builder or a partnership with a major mortgage banker.

What are the benefits of using the builder’s in-house lender to finance your home? Well, it is simple dollars and math. A builder will offer some incentive to keep you with the in-house lender. That incentive can be credits toward closing costs, buying down the rate or in the form of home upgrades.

These are attractive options, but don’t forget to watch the rates and fees as well. It’s always a good idea to compare the total package the … READ MORE