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Each November, Santa's elves can be found busily toiling away behind the scenes at all hours of the day and night to get everything ready for the wondrous Christmas Bazaar that will be held in the heart of Gilroy next on Saturday, Nov. 23.

The San Martin Animal Shelter, which operates through funding from Santa Clara County and donations, is waiving the usual adoption fees for dozens of animals that have been impounded since Aug. 1 as part of an ongoing promotion to find forever homes for some of the shelter's more veteran residents.

The "Battle for the Bell" concluded Friday with CHS's victory over GHS.  A highlight video is  available at the link below:

This time each year a convergence of sorts happens: practicing random acts of kindness and Veterans Day which is Monday, Nov. 11. It reminds me that as Americans we have the opportunity to deliver random acts of kindness because of the noble sacrifices made by those who have or are serving in the armed forces. They have delivered us our freedoms. When you see a soldier or a veteran, thank them for their great service. Buy them a cup of coffee, breakfast or a beer in the airport if the opportunity arises. And remember, those random acts of kindness. They’re good karma, and they will come back to you.

Expecting a window of good fall weather, in mid-October I headed to Emigrant Wilderness – a place I had never visited. Set between Highway 108 and the northern border of Yosemite National Park, Emigrant Wilderness is nearly the last gasp of the polished granite alpine country characteristic of the High Sierra.

During the last several years of writing this column and meeting with the local wine community, one person's name always comes up in conversation. In revered tones, people ask me, “Have you heard of Steve Beck?” or “You really need to meet Steve Beck!”