Santa Cruz Farmers Markets

In 1946 Frank Gonzales returned from World War II and bought 10 acres of apricot trees in the Hollister area. He and his wife Mary Gonzales began farming in Hollister when they were married over 55 years ago. They raised three children on the 120 acre ranch. Frank and Mary's son, Gary Gonzales, returned from the Peace Corp in 1972 and began to work the apricot orchard with his father. He has now been managing it for decades. Until 1992 the family sent 60 tons of dried, unpacked fruit to two large wholesalers, Del Monte and Mayfair. When Turkish imports began to flood the market, they had to revision their business strategy. Apricot King began to sell at the farmers' markets, little ones in tow.

Companion bakeshop is a welcoming community gathering space located on the westside. They offer live bluegrass music on weekends, monthly baking classes, bi-monthly parent education classes and a mandolin workshop series. Their space is also used weekly to host H &H fish CSA pick up, Live Earth Farm CSA pick up, Free Wheelin Farm CSA stand and Fogline Farm CSA pick up.

Rodoni is a third generation farm and has transitioned into the organic market over the last 10 years. They now have over 100 acres certified organic by CCOF and currently grow brussels sprouts, leeks, artichokes, beets, peas, beans and pumpkins.