YOG A AT T HE W HI T E HOU S E | S TA RG A ZING | CONDOR S | D AV ID S CO T T
Journal PLUS JUNE 2011
MAGAZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST
HIKING THE CENTRAL COAST TRAILS
Serving the entire SLO County since 1978 Twila Arritt Broker-Associate
805-543-2172 www.farrellsmyth.com
www.3290Rockview1.com
Pamela Bliss Broker-Associate
www.439RennellSteet.com
Ridgepoint Condo on Rockview. Living room, dining area, kitchen and 1/2 bath on entry level; 2 bedrooms, full bath and laundry on lower level. Decks off living and bedrooms. Private patio/deck off lower level. 2 car covered car port. $277,500
Live or vacation in Morro Bay! Light, bright beach charmer with 3 bedrooms and two full bathrooms plus a double car garage. This cutie has cathedral ceilings, upgraded flooring and nice carpet. $369,500
www.1633Partridge.com
www.5847Tamarisk.com
Theresa Carroll REALTOR®
Patricia Garrison REALTOR®
Annette Mullen REALTOR®
Laura Rizzoli REALTOR®
SLO Pride-of-ownership home. Wonderful neighborhood, Gorgeous yard and grounds, Great floor plan and ALL single-level! 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,742 sq.ft. of turn-key SLO living, close to shopping, schools and services. Heads above the rest. Don’t miss this one! $499,000 www.347Branch.com
Lovely single-level Country Club Estates. 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home located on the 16th Tee, with beautiful mountain and golf course views. Charming, gated community. $929,000
Mary Rosenthal REALTOR®
www.406Ferrini.com
Janet Shaner REALTOR®
Vicky Hall REALTOR® Great 3 bedroom home w/ additional two - 1 bedroom units. Main house has been redone to reflect the period of the home. Hardwood floors wood sash arched windows. A real doll house. Each unit has washer/dryer hookups, on site parking. $749,500 Jennifer Hamilton Relocation Director
Stephanie Hamilton REALTOR®
Classic 1960’s Four-Plex half a block from the Highland entrance to Cal Poly. All two bedroom, one bath units, with large bedrooms and on-site laundry. Lower units have back doors to patio area and upper units have private decks. $829,000
21 Santa Rosa Street, Suite 100, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Conveniently located in the heart of San Luis Obispo. Our office is open 7 days a week.
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CONTENTS
16 Journal PLUS MAGAZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST
The People, Community, and Business of Our Beautiful Central Coast ADDRESS
654 Osos Street San Luis Obispo California 93401
PHONE
805.546.0609
slojournal@fix.net
WEBSITE
www.slojournal.com
CALIFORNIA CONDORS
EDITOR & PUBLISHER Steve Owens ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Erin Mott GRAPHIC DESIGNER Dora Mountain COPY EDITOR Susan Stewart PHOTOGRAPHER Tom Meinhold DISTRIBUTION Keith Malcomson
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18
PETER STERIOS
STARGAZING
PEOPLE
COMMUNITY
ADVERTISING Jan Owens, Kristen Hathaway CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Stewart, Natasha Dalton, Hilary Grant, Joseph Carotenuti, Dr. Julian Crocker, Sarah Hedger, Maggie Cox, Deborah Cash, Sue Scheel, Aurora Lipper, Chuck Graham, Jeanne Harris, Andrew Carter, Peter Sterios, Dori Stone, Bob Huttle, Gordon Fuglie and Phyllis Benson Mail subscriptions are available at $20 per year. Back issues are $2 each. Inquires concerning advertising or other information made by writing to Steve Owens, JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE, 654 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. You can call us at 546-0609, our fax line is 546-8827, and our e-mail is slojournal@fix.net. View the entire magazine on our website at www.slojournal.com JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE is distributed monthly free by mail to all single family households of San Luis Obispo and is available free at over 600 locations throughout the county. Editorial submissions are welcome but are published at the discretion of the publisher. Submissions will be returned if accompanied by a stamped self addressed envelope. No material published in the magazine can be reproduced without written permission. Opinions expressed in the byline articles are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE. Cover photo provided by Sue Scheel
8 DAVID SETTINO SCOTT 10 PETER STERIOS – Yoga at the White House 12 BRIAN ANDERSON & JENNIFER BRODIE
HOME & OUTDOOR 14 16 18 19 20 22 24
HIKING RESERVOIR CANYON CALIFORNIA CONDORS STARGAZING SUMMER MUSIC CAMP CO-OP FARMING IN NORTH COUNTY HOME DESIGN DISTRICT FOOD / AT THE MARKET
26 28 29 30 32 34 46
SLO ART SCENE HUTTLE UP DOG NEXT DOOR OUR SCHOOLS Dr. Julian Crocker HISTORY: SLO City Flag HOSPICE CORNER / SUDOKU PUZZLE ALMANAC – The Month of June
BUSINESS
37 DOWNTOWN SLO What’s Happening 42 THE BULLETIN BOARD 45 EYE ON BUSINESS
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Quality toys at discount prices
g a T Red nts u o c Dis ! e d i W e r o t S
Some examples of our great prices throughout the store:
Hot Wheels
89¢
Small World Toys
ress Dashboard Expfo r originally $49.99
$19.99
Small World Toys
Shopping Cartr originally $24.99 fo
$9.99
Let’s Bring Babry originally $19.99 fo
$7.99
Ryan’s Room Pirate Ship
originally $11 9.99 for
$29.99
ll Hoppity B9afo r
originally 26.9
$9.99
Small World T oys
Umbrella Stro ller originally $19 .99 for
$7.99
682 Higuera St. • San Luis Obispo • 541-2896 Santa Maria Town Center Mall • Santa Maria • 922-9700 Valid at both the SLO and Santa Maria stores. These prices good through 6/30/2011, no coupon needed. Not valid with any other promotion or offer.
Redu
c
o$ ed t
599
K!
From the publisher
I Highly sought after neighborhood in San Luis Obispo. Single level four bedroom homes are hard to find, especially with a pool. Newly landscaped front and back yards, refinished hard-wood floors, new interior and exterior paint, hallway bath remodeled, new fridge and cook top, new pool motor. Sunken living room with fireplace and a private entry courtyard. Go to www.680rancho.com for more details. Asking $599,000.
am proud to say that I have been on two local high school scholarship committees for the past several years. I co-chair the one for our Kiwanis Club and we gave four scholarships this year ranging from $1000 - $2500. I’m also part of the Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) High School Memorial Scholarship Committee. This year nine $1100 scholarships and two $1300 scholarships were awarded. The funds generated come from annual fundraisers which include a Chicken BBQ on Super Bowl Sunday and Founders Bank CEO, Tom Sherman receiving the Community Service Award an Auction in November. The from MLK President, Mary Matakovich. students fill out an application for each scholarship and committee members interview the finalists. It’s amazing what these students have accomplished at such an early age. They maintain a high grade point average, work at a job outside the home and still take time to do community service. There is no doubt that the future of this community MLK Jr. Boardmember, Ray Allen will be passed on to good hands. receiving the award for his volunteer work above and beyond the call of At at he MLK award ceremony, duty from Virginia Kennedy. Tom Sherman, CEO of Founders Community Bank received the Community Service Award for the bank’s continued support of the program. Boardmember, Ray Allen also received a special award for his volunteer work above and beyond the call of duty. Pictured below are eight of the eleven Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship winners.
BANKRUPTCY SALE! Estate Home approximately 6000 Sq.Ft. with 1800 Sq.Ft. 2nd residence with full gym. Giant shop with roll up doors with approx. 20 foot ceilings which has an additional 2400 sq.ft. residence with office behind. Ocean views, almost 5 acres completely fenced, very private, pool, pool house, wine cellar, space for RV, mature professional landscaping, enclosed parking for the car enthusiast. Tons of amenities and a total steal. Asking $1.625,000
Johnny Hough Owner / Broker
(805) 801-5063
johnny@realestategroup.com 962 Mill Street, SLO See more listings at www.realestategroup.com
Plenty of good reading again this month, including four outdoor related stories. We start out with our cover story on hiking the Reservoir Canyon Trail and move on to an update on the California Condors, then Stargazing on the Central Coast and finally Coop farming in North County. Enjoy the magazine,
Steve Owens
We’ve gone green. Now view our printed calendar of events entirely online. Visit our website today and find your way to the best seats in the house.
W W W . P A C S L O . O R G
UPCOM ING E V EN TS Thursday, June 2, 8 pm RSVP XVI: Duende
Cal Poly Music Dept.
Fri., June 24, 6:30 pm CICF: Opening Night Bash!
Vocal Arts Ensemble
Sunday, June 26, 1 pm CICF: Choir’s Choice Competition Vocal Arts Ensemble
Friday, June 3, 8 pm Cal Poly Arab Music Ensemble Spring Concert
Friday, June 24, 8 pm CICF: Ready, Set, Sing!
Sun., Jun. 26, 2 pm & 6pm DPAC Showcase 2011
Saturday, June 4, 8 pm Cal Poly Wind Bands’ Spring Concert
Saturday, June 25, 10 am CICF: Open to the Public
Sunday, June 26, 8 pm CICF: Grand Finale & Awards
Saturday, June 25, 3 pm Aladdin
July 16 & 23, 2 & 7 pm July 17 & 24, 2 pm Seussical the Musical
Cal Poly Music Dept.
Cal Poly Music Dept.
Sunday, June 5, 6pm Infusion Academy of Dance & San Luis Jazz
Wed., June 8, 7 pm Spring Choral Concert: LMS & SLO High Choirs Slo High Choir
805.SLO.ARTS Phone | 805.756.2787 Fax | 805.756.6088
WWW.PACSLO.ORG
Vocal Arts Ensemble
Vocal Arts Ensemble
Pacific Dance Center & Kelrik Productions
Saturday, June 25, 8 pm CICF: Folk Song Competition Vocal Arts Ensemble
Dellos Performing Arts Center
Vocal Arts Ensemble
Kelrik Productions
PEOPLE
david settino scott: a portrait of an artist By Natasha Dalton and Brett Dalton
D
avid Settino Scott has done some interesting things with his life, not least of which was a long stint in the film industry. The list of films he helped make is studded with the names of many Oscar winners, including Caddy Shack and Star Wars. The company he worked for created visual effects, and David’s job forced him to figure out things he’d never done before – or maybe nobody had done before – and make them look awesome. Most of the people David worked with at that time were excellent craftsmen. “Their big joy was doing the job, doing it really well, and finishing it as fast as they could,” David says. The crew had incredible skills, but it was often David’s artistic eye that made things come alive in the end. “Everybody else would be nitpicky, and do the work so neatly – but their work would look dead. Me, I somehow intuitively knew how to make things look good on film. When we needed to have trees in the scene, everybody wanted them to look like little trees, and it didn’t work. I wrapped some stuff on toothpicks and then went up and jabbed it here and there – and it looked perfect on film. It looked exactly like you were flying over the Swiss Mountains through the snow, over the trees, and saw the little train coming through.”
David Settino Scott with his portraits
his wall, he actually did have to hunt them down first. “They all have names; I exhibit them in my shows; people love them – but I’m reluctant to sell,” he admits. “They’re such a part of me now. They’re invaluable.” Each of these majestic creatures comes with its own life-story. Where else can you find something like that? Especially considering the fact that, according to David, he is the kind of an artist that cannot duplicate things. “If I sold any of these, I wouldn’t be able to make another one,” he says. Having a compelling story to go with the painting seems to be the only way to make David interested in embarking on a subject. In the summer of 1994, having accepted an invitation by Mary Steenburgen to spend a few weeks at her and her husband Ted Danson’s (of Cheers fame) house in Martha’s Vineyard, David immersed himself in painting ships. A former Navy sailor, he certainly knew a lot about them. To his surprise, just painting random ships didn’t bring the satisfaction he expected – until he stumbled upon the idea of painting slave ships. With that poignant story in his head, he says, “I couldn’t wait to get to the studio and paint.”
However, in spite of his obvious usefulness for Hollywood, “one task David’s friends shared through the ’70s was convincing him to stop being an artisan … and follow his heart and become an artist,” remembers Marc Norman, author and producer of Shakespeare in Love, and David’s close friend. This finally happened in the ’80s when David moved to the “It was like having a novel go through my brain,” he remembers. “I’m Central Coast and devoted himself full-time to art. “I was painting hard, thinking, what it would be like, to be torn from your village, and put seven days a week. I’d just get up and start working,” David remembers. on a ship when you haven’t been on the ocean before. Shackled! I For someone who spent a good portion of his life in Los Angeles – and painted 15 or 16 canvases thinking about this. That was the ‘juice;’ that was the inspiration. As I was doing this, I got all these books on whose work graces the collections of many Hollywood celebrities the slave trade and was also reading captains’ logs from the ships. And – David is remarkably non-commercial. Not because his work doesn’t I ended up making a sculpture, and it turned out to be so beautiful sell, but because he doesn’t. As a self-taught artist, he is more interthat I made two of them. One is now in my studio. And it’s one of my ested in moving up his artistic horizons, and at times, he becomes so best pieces.” It’s interesting to note that just a few years later Steven attached to his creations, he finds it hard to part with them. Spielberg released Amistad – his own cinematographic rendition of This happened with the “mythological creatures” David has grown so the slave-trade story. fond of. He now seems to half-believe that, before mounting them on History and the people who change it are a running motif in David’s work. He made a number of stunning polyptychs, following the medieval tradition of a pictorial elucidation of biblical themes. Then came a project dedicated to the Vietnamese monks who immolated themselves during the Vietnam War. It started as an experiment in making Egyptian style sculptures but grew into a contemplation of another chapter in history.
“I had to do a lot of research to understand why the monks did this,” David explains. “After all, their action couldn’t change the world; not immediately. They had to know that. But the people who saw this, they changed. You don’t change the whole world by one act, but you may enlighten some people. I’d like to think that.” David showed this installation in three museums, and, as it was in the case of the slave trade sculptures – in spite of the agonizingly difficult subject matter and dramatic presentation, which included J U N E
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crying. Right now the sculptures of the seven monks ‘reside’ in David’s studio in San Miguel; he doesn’t want to separate them by selling them one at a time. “It’s a complete show,” David explains. “Ideally, I’d like to find some sort of a sanctuary to give these sculptures a permanent home; a Peace Chapel, perhaps, in a botanical garden, so that people could go there and meditate.” These days, staying true to his need to stay emotionally connected with the subject of his work, David has turned to portraits. “I’m in my Lost Period,” he laughs, “I want to reconnect with my friends. Portraits and flowers are about all I’ve been painting lately.”
The Trophy Head of the Mythological God, Baeb
a large-screen video – the work was immediately embraced by the general public and critics alike. At Fresno Museum, where at the time of the show David was an Artist-in-Residence, he saw people sitting among his work and
David jokes about his work, but it is, in fact, yet another new turn in his artistic pursuits, and, as usual, he is taking it with skill and elegance. “I spend hours painting portraits,” he says. “They are all males. It’s an engagement with these people, the transfusion of energy that makes the work exciting. I want to know what it is like to be a man in our time. Who are we? What do we do? What is our common mission?” The artist Mark Bryan, a subject of one of David’s portraits, admits that when he watched
PEOPLE
David work, he was surprised at how casual and easy it seemed for him. “He just sat at his easel with a limited palette, some medium and his eye,” Mark comments. “He was very relaxed and didn’t seem too worried about how it would come out. I liked the confidence he showed… I did learn a lot by watching him. The most memorable for me, was to just let some things happen on their own, and forget about trying to control everything. The results can often be surprising. That’s probably sound advice for most things, really.” “I admire David’s courage to take on a project like this,” Mark adds. “I think portraiture is one of the most difficult things to attempt for an artist… to capture the appearance and most importantly the spirit of a particular person is truly a challenge.” You’ll have a chance to see David’s latest work at his upcoming show, which opens on July 1 at the Steynberg Gallery. Since David’s friends tend to be well-known, you’ll probably recognize a face or two. And then you’ll see for yourself what an amazing artist David Scott really is. To learn more, visit www.davidsettinoscott.com or www.steynberggallery.com
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Peter Sterios Teaching yoga at the white house By Peter Sterios
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got the call. Many get the call—the call to move, the call to go, the call to take action and change something in our lives. I’ve gotten the call numerous times, but this was different.
I literally got the call. Having spent the previous five days teaching a yoga retreat, deep in the woods, beyond the reach of cell towers, my coming out was greeted with a brief voicemail:
“Can you make time in your schedule to teach yoga at the White House?”
Sterios at the White House
In disbelief, I hit the replay key and listened again—same message, and no recognition of any tone to suggest a wayward April Fool’s prank from one of my slightly twisted friends who think they’re funny.
In two weeks, I was on a flight to Washington DC. I was one of 12 teachers from around the U.S. invited to teach yoga on the South Lawn at the White House’s 133rd annual Easter Egg Roll, the largest annual public event held in “America’s Backyard.”
This was the real deal. And in a schedule that is chronically overbooked, I frantically searched for my day planner buried in my bag, hoping that date was free. Amazingly it was—the only weekend free for months. It was meant to be.
If you think the growth of yoga in America is anything less than phenomenal, just imagine how many collective steps we have taken as a culture in a relatively short amount of time, for us to now have yoga officially sanctioned in the highest levels of society and government. Yoga at the White House is part of Michelle Obama’s transformation of the event into a day of fitness activities for kids and families, with yoga up front and (almost) center. The tag line for this year’s event was “Get Up and Go.” It was hailed as a central part of the First Lady’s Let’s Move! initiative. Let’s Move! is a national effort to combat childhood obesity with a focus on health and wellness, encouraging children to lead healthy, active lives.
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And get up and go we did. We awoke at 5:45 a.m., put on our new, generously donated Lululemon “official yoga uniforms,” and walked two blocks from the hotel to the White House Lawn entrance. There, we began setting up the Yoga Garden with 50 Easter-egg-colored, natural rubber yoga mats—courtesy of Manduka—in preparation for teaching to the first group of future yogis to arrive at 7:30 a.m. Most of the teachers didn’t even have time for Starbucks. Talk about being motivated! We downdogged and barked; we jumped like frogs
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Kids creating a tunnel
PEOPLE “Can you make time in your schedule to teach yoga at the White House?” croaking; we roared like lions; we rolled (& rocked) like Easter eggs; we swayed like trees, got blown over by the wind and—like life—got right back up again. We taught the kids how to say the Sanskrit “Namaste,” and they learned many meanings of the word. Their favorite was, “I am awesome and you are awesome.” There were no video games, no movies, no iPods, no cell phones and even the parents were digitally unplugged and fully present in the moment with their children. Now that’s awesome! Thirty thousand people received tickets to attend the event. Members of the public from all over the country had the opportunity to enter an online lottery for a chance to receive tickets. This year, over 200,000 tickets were requested, and guests from all 50 states and the District of Columbia were selected as winners.
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there is hope for the nation’s mental, physical and spiritual health. Peter Sterios is a yoga instructor and owner of m.BODY yoga & massage in San Luis Obispo, CA.
The day was divided into six sessions with 5,000 people entering the grounds for two hours at a time. We, the teachers, went nonstop for 12 hours. Each teacher took turns to teach or assist 10-15 minute classes for 30-50 kids at a time, with short breaks in between. The weather was perfection, as was the unfolding of the day. After finishing the last class, we all took a well deserved break to share the highs and even higher highs from the day before picking up and packing out. As I sat on the lawn, under the ground’s magnificent stately trees, I was overtaken by what had taken place that day—organic food, seed plantings in Michelle’s organic garden, yoga, story-telling, kids participating in exercise activities everywhere one looked. Everyone was having fun, especially our First Family, and I thought to myself: Wow, I am proud to be an American (yes, again), and
Early morning group posing in front of the White House
It’s About ExpErIEncE. It’s About pErsonAl sErvIcE. It’s About thE clIEnt.
L to R: Cary Adler, Dave Belmont, & Kevin Dye
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protEctIng our clIEnts’ futurE drEAms AgAInst tomorrow’s uncErtAIntIEs. Cary Adler, Dave Belmont and Kevin Dye work hard to support their clients and community. Years of experience means that they can put together the coverage you need and the service to back it up. If you are evaluating your business insurance needs, call Adler Belmont Dye and let them put their experience to work for you.
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805.540.3900
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mercy ships
Jennifer brodie and brian anderson ...serving the world’s poor, one volunteer at a time By Susan Stewart
A
uthor Donald Miller has written: “Life cannot be understood flat on a page; it has to be lived. A person has to get out of his head, has to fall in love, has to memorize poems, has to jump off bridges into rivers, has to stand in an empty desert and whisper sonnets under his breath … We get one story you and I, and one story alone. … It would be a crime not to venture out, wouldn’t it?” This year, two local people took Miller’s words to heart and ventured out—all the way to Sierra Leone, Africa. Brian Anderson and Jennifer Brodie have never met; their backgrounds and personalities are not at all similar. He’s a 32-year-old IT expert; she’s a 22-year-old aspiring nurse. Yet their experiences while aboard Mercy Ships this past year carry a common inspirational message that is practically impossible to resist. “I learned so much about patience and humility,” said Brodie. “I learned that even though I’m just an ordinary person, I have the opportunity to live an extraordinary life.” “I learned that it’s important to focus on what can be done, not on what can’t,” said Anderson. “And while it’s true that we, as individuals, cannot solve all the world’s problems, when it comes to individual lives, we can make a difference.” Founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships is an international charity providing medical and surgical relief, training, and sustainable development to areas of natural disaster or chronic need. Currently based in Garden Valley, Texas, Mercy Ships has
Brian Anderson in front of the Africa Mercy
offices in 15 nations, recruits thousands of professional volunteers every year, and has served more than a million direct beneficiaries. Its most recently acquired vessel, the Africa Mercy, is a 16,500-ton ship that was converted to a state-of-the-art hospital ship serving the nations of Africa. Its lower deck has six operating theaters, a 78-bed hospital ward, and an Intensive Care Unit. Its upper decks are home to the hundreds of professional volunteers who do everything from performing surgeries to emptying bed pans. San Luis Obispo’s Jennifer Brodie signed on to work in the kitchen, but was switched to housekeeping when the ship arrived in Sierra Leone. Also from SLO, Brian Anderson volunteered as an Information Services worker, helping maintain a broad range of computerized data and record-keeping programs. Jennifer served for three months; Brian for six. Terms of service can vary widely, from a few weeks to as many as ten years. All volunteers must raise their own funds to support their time aboard Mercy Ships. Their expenses include passport, immunization, and travel costs, insurance, and crew fees (or room-and-board). Each volunteer has found unique and imaginative ways to raise the needed funds, from establishing personal websites to partnering with their churches, schools, or service clubs. Three things motivated Jennifer Brodie: the ecstatic response of a friend who served on Mercy Ships the year before; her desire to become a nurse and the chance to see what that might be like up close; and a compelling drive to do something different between college and nursing school. “Everything I’ve done up to this point in my life has made sense,” she explained. “I knew it would be easy for me to stick with my routine. But something inside was telling me to do something out of my comfort zone … to be part of something bigger.” So right after graduation from Cal Poly, Brodie took multiple jobs, some days working as many as 12 hours at four different jobs, from caretaking to housekeeping. And she put herself on a strict budget to save the money that would finance her service on Mercy Ships. Bringing her enthusiasm, flexibility, and willingness to the job, Brodie said, “You don’t really need to have any specific skills to serve on Mercy Ships.” However, specialized skills are welcomed and even the surgeons and other health care professionals are also volunteers who pay their own way.
Jennifer with the children of Freetown, Sierra Leone J U N E
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In Sierra Leone, Brodie did a broad range of menial yet critically important tasks – from sweeping and cleaning, to laundry and garbage
PEOPLE duty. Along the way, she made lasting friendships, with one family in particular. “They taught me how to cook their traditional foods, took me to the markets, invited me to their church service, they allowed me to befriend them,” she said. “Africa is beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time,” Brodie continued. “There is so much poverty, and war has ravaged their country, but the people are among the most hospitable, joyful people I have ever met in my life.” Mercy Ships is a faith-based organization, modeled after the 2,000-year-old message of Jesus Christ, who taught the world about serving the poor with love, compassion, and mercy. Its mission is to bring hope and healing to the forgotten poor by mobilizing people and resources worldwide, and serving all people without regard for race, gender, or religion. And while all volunteers are asked to model Christian values such as to love and serve others, to be people of integrity and excellence, there is utmost respect for existing native belief systems. Mercy Ships volunteers do not preach, proselytize or otherwise attempt to convert. However, Brian Anderson believes that putting hundreds of people from all nations, all walks of life, on board a single ship to work together could be difficult were it not for their common Christian beliefs. “Seeing faith played out in that way, every day, was amazing,” he said. Anderson heard about Mercy Ships while he was a student at Cal Poly. Attracted to the idea of serving the world’s poor with thousands of others across the globe, he visited one of the Mercy Ships while it was docked at San Diego more than a decade ago; he wanted to sign up immediately. But first, he obtained his degree in Computer Engineering at Cal Poly and accumulated a range of experience in IT services and autonomous robotics. As an IT consultant with few ties to home, Anderson has greater flexibility than most in terms of schedule and finances. His first stint with Mercy Ships was for six months, and he raised the money to become a volunteer through a technical contract with a California State Court facility. “I don’t think there is a single area in my life that has not been affected by a broadened perspective,” said Anderson. “These places are so far removed from the consciousness of our culture … it’s difficult to learn about their needs without seeing it firsthand. … I will never view what physical possessions I have in the same light; nor my ability to see a doctor whenever I choose.”
Brian Anderson
So smitten is he with the overall experience he had with Mercy Ships, that Anderson has signed up for another two-year term beginning this fall. “My primary goal in the next five months is to share with as many people as I can about the reality of life in the world’s poorest nations.” Here are some shattering statistics Anderson shared with Journal Plus.
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“While walking the streets, I would often get bombarded with pleas for help,” said Brodie. “I had to tell people ‘I’m so sorry, we can’t help with something like that.’ … Days like that hit me like a ton of bricks.” Anderson echoed Brodie’s feelings, adding a story that helped soften his sadness that they couldn’t help everyone. It seems that 20 years ago, a Mercy Ships physician came across a young pregnant woman weeping alone in a corner of a local hospital’s waiting room. When he inquired about the cause of her anguish, he was told she had obstructed labor and because she had no means to afford the cesarean that could save her life, she had been left to die. The physician personally paid for the procedure and today, both mother and daughter are alive and healthy. Soon after his arrival with Mercy Ships in Freetown, Anderson met the baby girl, who is now 20. “Needless to say, [her visit] gave us a very real example of how our work can impact those who are called to serve,” said Anderson.
• In Sierra Leone, there is but one doctor for every 50,000 people. In the U.S., the ratio is about 1 doctor per 465 people.
Having “ventured out” far beyond their comfort zones, far beyond their insulated, idyllic lives on the Central Coast, Brian Anderson and Jennifer Brodie tell others: “Just do it!”
• 50% of the population in Western Africa has no access to any form of health care for the entirety of their lives.
“I am always the person with a million excuses why I can’t do something,” said Brodie. “But life is too short to waste making up excuses.”
• 1 in 5 children dies before the age of five.
“You’ll come away with new views, new stories, and a changed heart,” said Anderson.
• 1 of every 8 women in Sierra Leone dies from complications in pregnancy or childbirth. In the developed world, that figure is 1 in 48,000. Wanting to maximize the number of people served while docked in any one location, Mercy Ships must necessarily limit the scope of their services to surgeries they can do in multiples. These commonly include repairing cleft palates, removing bodily tumors, straightening bowed legs, and removing blinding cataracts. The results are dramatic, literally helping the blind to see, the lame to walk. There are many, however, they cannot help and this was a source of deep sadness for Brodie and Anderson. Jennifer observing in the OR
To discover a way to understand life outside the flat page, to learn how to jump off bridges into rushing rivers, to stand in the empty desert whispering sonnets, visit www.mercyships. org for more information.
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Hiking the central coast Trails
reservoir canyon By Sue Scheel Sue Scheel taking a break on her Reservoir Canyon hike.
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an Luis Obispo County offers a multitude of hiking opportunities ranging from a short, leisurely stroll along the bluffs of Montana de Oro to a more challenging day hike beginning at the Reservoir Canyon Trailhead. Being an avid backpacker and having traversed numerous trails in the Sierra Nevada, I am taking the opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring splendor right here in my own backyard. Reservoir Canyon will be the focus of this article, describing specific features along the way. Put on your hiking boots, pack your daypack and enjoy the grandeur. Having just hiked a portion of this trail in late winter, following an extremely wet rainy season, we were mindful of the possibility for several creek crossings and a muddy trail. Our trekking poles were a wise investment and provided that extra stability on uneven terrain. For some, it may be wise to save this trail until the weather warms and the many tributaries become dry again, allowing for trouble-free trail access. Of course, with the abundance of rainfall this season, the waterfalls are in their prime.
Reservoir Canyon trail offers a nice leisurely walk for some or an arduous climb for others, depending on physical conditioning and distance traveled. From Highway 101 in San Luis Obispo, turn east on Reservoir Canyon Road at the base of Cuesta Grade and drive 0.4 mile to the road’s end. My husband and I decided on a crisp, pristine late-autumn morning to begin our hike. With recent light rains, the cobalt blue sky was breathtaking and as the sun glimmered through the trees, I knew this was an excellent day for an adventure. At the trailhead, check out the short side path just to the right of the main trail for a view of a remarkable waterfall, a perfect place to sit and reflect on the many examples of nature’s handiwork in the San Luis Obispo area. This short offshoot is passable in all conditions and is certainly worth the time. The first mile of the trail travels parallel to Reservoir Creek through a forest of oak, bay and sycamore trees. We were fortunate to observe a colorful display of dazzling red berries on the toyon, a native shrub with shiny, dark green leaves. Watch for encroaching poison oak on the trail, indigenous to San Luis Obispo County. Poison oak and berry bushes can sometimes be confused, but there is an effortless way to tell the difference. The berry bushes have thorns. Poison oak does not. Taking precautions is always a wise idea. Attempt to veer around the plants impinging on the trail, and reduce possibility of contact. We always wash the affected areas with isopropyl after returning to our vehicle, limiting the possibility of infection. Note the side footpath branching to the right at 0.5 mile. Take the time to explore the beautiful cascades, pools and waterfalls in a shimmering, olive green serpentine rock garden, delighting viewers with the beauty of Reservoir Creek. Return to the main trail and cross an old bridge at 1.2 miles. Continue through the forested area and if preferable, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the point where the trail intersects with the creek once again, a lovely spot to relax and appreciate the solitude.
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As we ascended, an old homestead complete with a scrap metal teepee and an old wooden swing hanging from a stately oak tree came into view. My husband and I returned to our childhood days, as we each took a turn, hopped on the swing, and took a moment to enjoy the sensation of such a simple pleasure. Several unique sculptures adorn the landscape giving us the opportunity to ponder the history of this site, creating stories from days gone by. Leaving the homestead area, the trail opens up to a panorama of cows grazing in the valley below, and Cuesta Grade, now a distant roadway carving through the hillside. After snapping a few photos, we climb steadily once again through open meadows and reach an exposed, treeless ridge. Because of the sun exposure and steep terrain, a wide-brimmed sun hat and an ample supply of water is a necessity. Since time was on our side we continued our adventure, following the trail across the creek, climbing steadily up the north face of the mountain. Because this hike took place following a recent rain shower, the trail was quite muddy and the earth’s sticky clay had a fondness for adhering to our hiking boots.
Climbing to 1,715-foot high point, enjoy the phenomenal views of the city of San Luis Obispo, including the southern end of Los Osos Valley and Cuesta Pass. Several of the volcanic morros rising from the valley between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay are visible including Islay Hill, San Luis Mountain, Bishop’s Peak, Chumash Peak, and
Hollister Peak. We discover a sunken rockcrafted sitting area, and lull in the splendor of the views below us. After snapping an abundance of photos, we return on the same trail leading us back to where our day began. We covered approximately 5 miles that day, which was an exemplary countryside outing. San Luis Obispo County is indeed a treasure trove of hiking possibilities.
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california condors their population is soaring By Chuck Graham
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t’s been 16 years since I saw my first California condor. September, 1996 was blazing hot as I filled my empty water bottle, coaxing every drop out of a feeble natural spring west of Lion Canyon in the Los Padres National Forest. I returned to my faded red tent, my only relief from persistent deer flies that wouldn’t ease up on my eyes, nose, ears and mouth. Sunburned with trails of salt crusted to my face, I waited until sunset to run down to the natural sandstone amphitheater hoping for a mere glimpse of a prehistoric raptor. Back then Lion Canyon was the spot to see captive-bred condors attempting a comeback after near extinction. I instantly understood why the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists chose the canyon as a launching pad for the beleaguered birds. It was remote, a steep, tough 12-mile hike from an oil field in Cuyama up to the daunting gorge. Lion Canyon is honeycombed with gritty grottos, towering sandstone spires and broad ledges, the ideal environment for condors. I didn’t see any that stifling afternoon. Maybe it was exceedingly hot for them too, the temperature hovering at triple digits like condors do over a carcass. I did spot that first elusive condor later in that same trip, and I’ve returned several times to Lion Canyon, each time seeing more of them. They soar above the canyon, congregating on those massive sandstone slabs, their velvety black feathers shimmering in the warm sun. Back then I had my doubts if they could survive. There’s still a long way to go, but there is hope amongst all the obstacles. The population of wild, free-flying condors in California recently reached a high of 100 birds, a far cry from 1987 when the wild population was down to just 14 condors struggling to survive in the rugged Santa Barbara backcountry. “With 100 wild condors now in California, the California Condor Recovery Program has reached another milestone on the road to recovery for this iconic bird,” said Jesse Grantham, California Condor Program Coordinator. “This achievement is a testament to the work
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of our biologists in the field and the efforts of our public and private Recovery Program partners.” Each fall captive-bred, jet black-colored, one-year-old condors are released into the wild primarily from two strategic sites, Pinnacles National Monument in Central California and Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge in the southern San Joaquin Valley. Captive breeding began for these Pleistocene Era scavengers in 1992 at the Los Angeles Zoo and the San Diego Wild Animal Park, the key to the survival of North America’s largest flying land bird. After the juvenile condors are released, they typically stay close to the release site slowly exploring their new surroundings. That includes learning to fly while extending their impressive 9-foot-wide wingspans in the swirling thermal updrafts, and becoming integrated into the existing wild flock. Within five to six months these young birds will follow the wild population throughout their historic range. In addition to releasing captive reared birds, mature wild condors with their pumpkin-colored heads have been producing their own young since 2004. Sixteen young condors born and raised in the wild have joined the wild flock in California, the ultimate goal being two to three self-sustaining populations stretching from Baja California, Utah and Arizona, to Northern and Southern California. Combined with the number of condors in captive breeding facilities, the entire population stands at 381 individuals. “Of late, the population in southern California is moving around in a triangular pattern between Hopper Mountain, Bitter Creek and Tejon
HOME/OUTDOOR After scavenging on a carcass littered with lead bullet fragments, condors struggle to digest their food. Meat is first stored in their crop, the pouch beneath their throats. The bullet fragments don’t allow for food to be broken down and forces condors to choke and suffocate until they die. Hopefully biologists can follow their Global Positioning Systems attached to their wings and reach troubled condors. If they’re rescued, biologists can treat a sick condor by flushing its system with a solution.
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“There’s still some grumbling going on. The situation isn’t perfect, but it is improving,” said Woodbridge of the lead bullet situation. “We’ve seen improvement in lead levels in the birds in Southern California, but levels are still higher in Northern California.” For more information on the California Condor Recovery Program call the Hopper Mountain NWR Complex at (805) 644-5185, or visit the Refuge Complex website at www. fws.gov/hoppermountain.
Ranch,” said Michael Woodbridge, head of public affairs at Hopper Mountain National Wildlife Refuge. “The current release sites are isolated, the foraging is very good, and we can keep an eye on them easier. The sites are not as mountainous.” Despite the high number of condors soaring across the Los Padres National Forest, they’re still susceptible to dangers such as fires, ingesting trash and especially lead poisoning. Woodbridge said the condor program is still working with hunters to use alternative ammunition. In 2008, California assemblymen Pedro Nava created a bill to ban lead ammunition throughout the condor’s range. Eventually it was signed by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. However, even with the ban the FWS is still imploring upon hunters to use non-lead ammunition such as copper, tungsten and others.
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stargazing central coast astronomical society By Aurora Lipper
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he Central Coast Astronomical Society is a service organization whose mission is to provide information and enjoyment to citizens of all ages who have an interest in astronomy. Founded in 1979, the Central Coast Astronomical Society consists of members from many walks of life who share a common interest in astronomy and related sciences. Our club reaches thousands of people in the community through our star gazing events and astronomy talks. Community outreach is part of our operation, with CCAS members conducting presentations and star parties for schools and the community. We are committed to sharing the wonders of the universe and we achieve our goal through regular public lecture programs and star parties, by publishing a monthly bulletin of articles and events, and through our website. An important activity for all astronomy clubs is to meet on a regular basis to view the heavens and share information about astronomy and telescopes. These meetings are greeted with high interest from the general public. Star parties are open to the public, and are offered at no charge. Information about these parties is posted on our website. We also offer a free backyard astronomer’s guide on our website. The CCAS maintains a library of books, CDs, DVDs, and telescopes available for loan to our club members, most of which were obtained by donations from supportive astronomers, publishers and organiza-
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tions. Anyone can become a member of our club – no previous experience or telescope required!
Star Gazing Events The best opportunity for getting your group involved with star gazing is to visit our club in action during one of our public star gazing nights. We have big telescopes to look through and knowledgeable astronomers in attendance at each one (weather permitting). Our next Star Gazing Event is scheduled for June 4 at the KOA in Santa Margarita. See www.centralcoastastronomy.org for more details.
Public Presentations We offer monthly astronomy presentations that are open to the public on topics ranging from beginner’s guide to telescopes to advanced astrophotography, galaxy formation to black holes. We also welcome the opportunity to give presentations to all organizations. After your initial request, you will be contacted by a member of our club about particulars for your event. We do not charge for our services, but gratefully accept donations to our club. Send a request by electronic mail to aurora@centralcoastastronomy.org.
HOME/OUTDOOR Camp Director Larry Grant, seated, with Summer Slam Camp Director, Jake Hitchcock.
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ROCK MUSIC CAMP NEW SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS By Hilary Grant Photos by Katherine Usavage
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entral Coast kids are a lucky lot when it comes to vacation camps.
Thanks to our rolling hills and accessible coastlines, there are adventure camps in the mountains and surfing classes on beaches. Parents can also enroll their children in a variety of other fun activities that include hands-on science workshops at Cuesta College, swimming classes in many SLO County parks, horseback riding instruction and a cornucopia of sports clinics. Still, there’s one kind of activity that hasn’t been around… until this summer. Scheduled for one week next month, SLO County kids can now jam at Rock’n Music Camp – the first rock music camp in the area. Open to tweens and teens – those entering fifth grade in September, through those who have completed eighth grade this summer – the not-for-profit camp is under the auspices of Mission College Preparatory Catholic High School (more often known as MCP). The camp takes place at the high school beginning Monday, July 18, and ends Friday, July 22. A free concert at MCP’s Performing Arts Center auditorium starring all of the campers is scheduled to cap off the week.
The cost is $300 for the five-day-long, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. camp, with a $20 discount for kids who register before June 6. Healthy lunches are included. Divided into five workshops – songwriting, guitar (bass, acoustic and electric), keyboard, voice and percussion, no musical experience is necessary. Music and instruments will be provided, including drums donated by Drum Circuit in SLO, with learning that much easier thanks to a ratio of six students for every teacher. “Putting a musical instrument in young hands for the first time, and then watching them make music, has been a high point in my professional life,” says Larry Grant, Rock’n Music Camp Director and head of the music department at Mission Prep. “The same goes when it comes to helping students develop a voice.” All teachers are professionals, with MCP music student interns helping out. “Kids who already have a level of proficiency will have the chance to further develop their skills and gain valuable performance and leadership experience,” says Grant. Many of these same students, adds Grant, might choose to take on group leader positions in preparation for the Friday night concert. To make Rock’n Music even more special, Grant has also extended invitations to several Christian rock performing artists to teach special workshops on songwriting and their specific instruments. While the camp is non-denominational, Grant intends to use “a core set” of classical rock and contemporary Christian rock music, including songs from Casting Crowns, Brit Nicole and Led Zeppelin.
than simply learning an instrument or figuring out how to read notes. “It’s no secret that musical training enhances certain skills such as math, science and language,” he says. Grant goes on to say that these academic gains are doubly enhanced by the self esteem and confidence that comes from being an integral part of a positive group performance experience. For inspiration, Grant has looked at the mission, style and curriculum of Camp Electric, a much larger summer Christian rock camp located in Nashville, Tennessee. A sleepover camp that began in 2008, Electric boasts an enrollment of more than 1,000 teens every summer, and features contemporary recording artists who helm several of its workshops. According to its website, the camp “gives aspiring musicians an opportunity to maximize their individual potential as well as to grow in their spiritual walk.” Rock’n Music is starting much smaller – just 40 openings are available this inaugural session. But within the next few years, says Grant, “I believe we could grow into a destination camp for this part of the country. “There are a number of positive and logistical reasons,” he continues. “For one thing, we already have a number of gifted teachers and musicians, right here, happy to share their skills with young people. And of course, we have the beauty of the Central Coast.” Find out more about Rock’n Music Camp, including registration info, by contacting Larry Grant, Rock’n Music Camp Director, at (805) 528-0285, or email lgrant@musednet.com.
“I like these two genres because then the contents of the lyrics don’t have to be of concern,” he says. “Plus, all of the basic fundamentals of music performance can be learned and applied on an instrument, or vocally, in a short period of time – beginner to stage in five days.” Music camp keyboard intern Scarlett Harris, with MCP senior Gabby Donnelly.
Grant also points out that attending a camp like Rock’n Music yields far more benefits
MCP music camp interns Joey Miller, on the drums, and Ethan Hopwood on guitar. J U N E
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local family farm co-op nourishes community
Part of the co-op group with fresh cut flowers and food baskets in the background.
By Dori Stone
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t’s an early August morning, still cool. the sun has barely crested the oak-studded hills, and on a small farmstead nestled in Kiler Canyon just west of Paso Robles, the workday has already begun. Sharpened kitchen knives slice through crisp, tender stems as the harvest bins fill up with giant leaves of dark green spinach, aromatic bundles of basil and cilantro, and a medley of tender young salad greens. Crouched on either side of the gently sloping rows, the farmers take advantage of this time to connect with one another, sharing conversation punctuated by bursts of laughter as they work. Once full, the bins are carried to an open-air packing shed near the house, where a baby plays on the ground as his mother washes freshlyharvested salad mix in a large metal sink. As the morning continues on, the farmers make trip after trip to the garden and back to the shed with more bins of greens, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers, and broccoli, in addition to the bounty of tomatoes, watermelons, rainbow chard, carrots and plums pre-harvested the evening before.
The aroma of cooking food and sound of children’s voices waft up the hill from the house below, where another family member looks after
the smaller kids and prepares breakfast. Around mid-morning, everyone takes a break for a hearty meal of eggs and ham raised on the farm, sauerkraut made prepared from surplus homegrown vegetables, and toast with smothered in jam from last year’s fruit harvest. The conversation is spirited and lively, filling the room with the typical energy and momentum of another harvest day. After breakfast, the packing shed once again becomes a bustle of activity as vegetables are washed, sorted, and packed carefully into wooden baskets. The shed’s tables area becomes a vibrant mosaic of color – bright green leaves and shiny red bell peppers, deep purple eggplants and a whole array of orange and yellow heirloom tomatoes. Once the baskets are loaded into the van, along with a dozen freshly cut flower bouquets, the morning’s harvest is finally complete and ready for delivery to town. About sixty local families support this farm and in turn are supported by it, receiving a basket of fresh organic produce every week from April through October. This increasingly-popular model of Community Supported Agriculture, or “CSA,” is a relationship in which community members subscribe to a farm by purchasing an entire season’s worth of fruits and vegetables, thereby committing to share in both the bounty and risks of the farm operation. If snap-peas produce exceptionally well one spring, there may be an extra large share of peas in everyone’s baskets, along with recipes for suggestions to use the abundance. And if abnormally cool weather causes tomatoes to ripen later than usual, members may have to wait a couple of weeks longer to get tomatoes in their baskets. But because the farm is so diverse, with about forty different fruits and vegetables,
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HOME/OUTDOOR it’s basically guaranteed that a setback in one area will be balanced by abundance in others. The Kiler Canyon CSA farm and homestead includes three acres of rotated vegetable gardens, two acres of densely planted fruit orchards, a variety of animals raised for the family’s own sustenance, and 150 acres of wild land as a shelter for wildlife. Quill and Dan Chase, the two brothers whose families live on and steward this land, grew up just over the hill in Peachy Canyon during the 1970s. For many years, the family sought out ways to create a livelihood off their land instead of the alternative, working outside jobs. They experimented with many ideas, from producing charcoal to planting vineyards and pistachio orchards, driven to preserving the land and soil through ecological practices. In 1989, the land was certified organic through the state organization CCOF. But in spite of the family’s efforts, obstacles such as gophers, deer, arid summers, and lack of infrastructure thwarted each attempt at a viable enterprise on the land. It wasn’t until 2000, when Quill’s partner, Chaponica Trimmell, began selling surplus produce from her garden to several friends and neighbors as a small weekly “vegetable route” that a new possibility began to emerge. This time, the project started small, based on available resources and infrastructure. With a spirit of learning, experimentation, and flexibility, it grew to its present size gradually and—no pun intended—organically.
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The CSA model offers people like Kathy a more direct relationship with the food on their plates, while providing small farmers the stability of a guaranteed market and outlet for their produce. At Kiler Canyon Farm, this has allowed the creation of a nourishing home environment and viable family-run enterprise while simultaneously nourishing others in our community. It’s a system of mutual support in which everyone—members, farmers, and land—is able to thrive. Kiler Canyon CSA is currently accepting new members for the 2011 season. For more information: www.kilercanyonfarm.com or (805) 239-9503.
At first, this meant hauling watering cans up the hillside to a few beds of vegetables, but as the project garden expanded it eventually called for a new well and water-efficient drip irrigation system. Chaponica’s sister-in-law, Kaleen Perlich, began working in the garden and eventually the whole family became part of the operation. The keys to success, in the farmers’ eyes, have been in keeping their operation a manageable size and remembering to prioritize the health and happiness of the farmers themselves, having fun together even while working hard. Running the CSA gives Chaponica and Kaleen the opportunity to stay home and raise their young children while earning income for the family and pursuing an endeavor they enjoy. Quill also describes the pleasures of being able to work at home and take care of his own place, and of the peaceful “quietness” he gets from being outdoors. In addition, he is pleased to have found a way that he and his family can support themselves on the land while preserving its natural state. Having never cleared wooded areas or put in vineyards, they could stop doing the CSA any time and the property would be essentially the same as they first encountered it, a wild place of grassy meadows and oak woodland. Members of the CSA can choose between two share sizes to meet their needs: a full bushel basket for larger families and a half-bushel for smaller households. Members also receive a weekly newsletter with recipes, an invitation to the annual potluck and open-farm day, and the chance to participate in occasional workshops (such as canning and sauerkrautmaking). Other benefits include cost savings compared to purchasing a similar quantity of organic produce at the store; high quality food that’s hand-selected, fresh, and well cleaned; and the opportunity to increase the quantity and diversity of vegetables in their diet. Kathy Myers, a member of eight years, says the CSA has motivated her to become more innovative in her cooking, bringing in a variety of vegetables and herbs she never would have used before. She looks forward to the surprise of picking up her family’s basket each week and discovering what’s inside, and she appreciates the freshness of produce picked within just twenty-four hours of delivery. J U N E
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How to Start Composting for Your Garden By Statepoint Media
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cological experts have proposed countless ways to improve the environment, but something as simple as changing the way you dispose of your trash could have a significant impact on the future of our planet.
under acid producing trees like pines.
• Combine organic wastes such as yard trimmings, food scraps and biodegradable products into a pile, then add bulking make the compost harmful or toxic. agents such as wood chips to accelerate the Be sure to avoid adding food and organic breakdown of organic materials. matter that will make the compost pile By composting biodegradable materials, • Let nature take its course. Typical compost smell, such as dairy products, egg yolks such as yard trimmings, food waste and diswill turn into rich soil in two to five weeks. (whites are okay), fats, grease, lard and posable paper products in a pile or bin, a nutrient-rich soil is created that can be used A properly managed compost bin or pile will oils. Meat and fish scraps are compostable, for gardening. This soil reduces the need for not attract pests or rodents and will not smell but make sure they do not contain parasites or bacteria. chemical fertilizers and pesticides, is better bad. Therefore, make sure you know what for the environment and will save you money. you can and cannot add to a compost pile. For more tips on composting and other It also promotes healthy foliage and growth environmental activities, visit www.mychinet. Many everyday items can be used, includ– a boon to gardeners everywhere. com and click on “Environment.” ing fruits and vegetables, yard trimmings, “Few Americans realize that nearly 50 eggshells, coffee grounds, teabags, and cer- “The average American produces four percent of the waste from their home is tain paper products. For example, Chinet’s pounds of landfill waste daily,” says Hapcompostable,” says Eric Happell, Director Classic White and Casuals lines of paper pell. “Composting is a simple solution to of Fiber Business Unit at Huhtamaki, the plates are 100 percent biodegradable and reducing your family’s ecological footprint.” makers of Chinet paper products. “If every endorsed by the U.S. Composting Council. American household composted, we could You can also add dryer and vacuum cleaner reduce our solid waste stream by more than lint, pet fur and fireplace ashes. 60 percent.” Other biodegradable materials, like hay, Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting a straw, grass clippings, saw dust and leaves composting pile at home: can also be added to compost piles, with the exception of black walnut leaves, • Select a convenient spot for composting. This spot can either be indoors in a compost which release chemicals that are harmbin or outdoors in a semi-shaded and well- ful to plants. Also, don’t include diseased or insect-ridden plants, or plants treated drained area. Don’t put your compost pile with chemicals or pesticides; these, too, will
A proud tradition of serving our community for over 26 years
ARROYO GRANDE – Bankruptcy Sale! Estate
Home approx. 6000 sf with 1800 sf 2nd residence with full gym. 2400 sf shop with roll up doors which has an additional 1200 sf residence with office behind. Ocean views, almost 5 acres completely fenced, very private, pool, pool house, wine cellar, space for RV, mature professional landscaping, enclosed parking for the car enthusiast. Tons of amenities and a total steal. $1,625,000 #2833
Popular San Luis Neighborhood
SAN LUIS OBISPO – This little home has a lot to offer in a great neighborhood, and just a short distance from downtown. Beautiful views of nearby mountains. Clean and ready for new owners. Huge R-2 lot so check with the City as to all of the options you have with this one. $359,000 #2846
SAN LUIS OBISPO – Welcome to this classic
SAN LUIS OBISPO – Magnificent Ferrini Heights
San Luis Drive home with outstanding curb appeal that features approx. 1485 sf, 3 bedrooms and a detached 2-car garage. The large living room with wood burning fireplace and adjacent formal dining room with views of the mature tree lined street is ideal for entertaining your guests. $749,900 #2839
home backing up to Bishop’s Peak open space. Spacious living spaces are accented by vaulted open beam ceilings, clerestory windows & archway transitions. Gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, center island, eating bar & stainless steel appliances. Luxurious master suite and Large living room w/ fireplace. Lush landscaping, back slate patio & gazebo. $1,175,000 #2843
SAN LUIS OBISPO – An easy to build lot just split from 1760 Tiburon. Flat and usable with great Westward views. Lot is located just outside of SLO city limits in the sought after Perozzi Ranch Subdivision. Surrounded by a small community of exquisite homes. Perfect spot to be in a rural setting but very close to town. $560,000 #2823
Location is Everything SAN LUIS OBISPO – This 3400 sf single level SAN LUIS OBISPO – 3200 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms each with their own bath making this a wonderful family home. Great curb appeal on a quiet culde-sac, and private walkway featuring a calming water feature and gardens. Cherry hardwood floors and a grand fireplace in the living room, a separate formal dining room. 3 bedrooms on the ground floor each with their own baths & an additional master upstairs. $719,000 #2844
home has it all including privacy on 2.5 acres with an additional 3.7 acre adjacent parcel available. The gourmet kitchen has everything for the cook and the large breakfast area is perfect for the family but the large dining room will accommodate many more. The back and front yards are fully irrigated and landscaped with asian, western and mediterranean gardens as well as multiple fruit trees. Also entertainers deck and seasonal creek. $1,299,000 #2845
SAN LUIS OBISPO – Historic Stanton House. Victorian with original curved corner windows and beautiful woodwork. Recently restored with impeccable taste including new kitchen and baths in keeping with the period style. New 2 car detached garage. New solar on garage roof. Approved for Mills Act which provides for low property taxes. Owner is willing to carry first at reasonable interest rate for qualified buyer. $1,750,000 #2773
For more information on these and other Real Estate Group of SLO listings call us at
805.541.2888
962 Mill Street U San Luis Obispo, California 93401 U www.RealEstateGroup.com
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HOME/OUTDOOR
at the market
whole grain trail cookies By Sarah Hedger
H
appy Summer Central Coast! Sometimes I cannot believe how quick the time goes by, and the fact that we are now approaching June is yet another reminder. It is however, pretty exciting to see what is coming into season by what is at our local farmer’s markets. It is also equally impressive to see the new types of fruits and vegetables that are being grown locally. By “new types” of fruits and veggies I am ironically referring to older heirloom varieties that are being grown again and brought to market. The industrialization of food where valuing quantity was top priority over quality seems to not have as much emphasis when growers are seeking out varieties that once again have flavor. Thus it brings us to the very important topic of choosing good ingredients. By good ingredients I am referring to high quality ingredients which most people often equate to expensive and coming from fancy stores, but in reality the best quality can be the least expensive coming straight out of our own backyards.
When I am putting together a recipe I often break the recipe down into the individual ingredients and look at what each ingredient contributes to the recipe both in flavor and nutritional value. A good case in point is how my paradigm of what constitutes a cookie recently shifted after reading some great vegan cookbooks including Veganomican and Vegan Cookies Invade Your Cookie Jar. Before these reads, I thought the basis of all cookies had to be the usual butter, flour, sugar, and egg combo we are all used to. What continues to impress me about vegans is their general resourcefulness of using whole food, natural ingredients in place of cholesterol-laden, traditional, processed ones. If we look at this month’s recipe – a
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vegan version of oatmeal cookies as the improved version, we’ll see there are ways to improve the old classics in both flavor and nutritional value. While I have not turned vegan or vegetarian (not that anything is wrong with these), my thinking has broadened to creating whole food goodness that tastes out of this world while contributing to the nutritional value of my health (and those who happen to be eating my food). These cookies for example, use coconut oil instead of butter, no eggs for leavening, and whole grain (gluten-free option) flour instead of the usual white flour stand by. While butter isn’t the worst thing in the world for us, the quantity used in cookies can often send the caloric (and cholesterol) count through the roof. And, unless we are professional athletes burning a thousand calories an hour, it’s good to keep an eye on the input of calories (ironically these athletes seem to keep the most discerning eye on their calories as well). While butter contributes flavor through saturated fat and cholesterol, coconut oil contributes flavor through saturated fats that consist primarily of medium chain triglycerides and lauric acid which happen to be profoundly good for the brain as well as having antibacterial and antiviral qualities as well. The cookies are also full of fiber, through the use of coconut, flax seeds, oats, and dark chocolate. While they aren’t going to cure the country’s health woes, they surely aren’t going to create many new ones, and, more importantly, it allows us to eat raw cookie dough again.
whole grain trail cookies (that happen to be vegan) For the Cookies: 2 cups oats, preferably quick cooking 1 cup shredded (unsweetened) dried coconut 2 cups whole grain flour, such as wheat, oat, or rice (feel free to substitute gluten free flour mix as a gluten free option as well) 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp sea salt 2 T ground flax seeds 1 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted (canola or corn oil can be substituted) 2/3 cup rice, soy, or almond milk 1 T vanilla 1 cup dark chocolate, coarsely chopped 2/3 cup hazelnuts Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line two baking sheets with foil or baking paper. 15 minutes before baking the cookies, place hazelnuts on baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until brown skin is peeling off nuts. Remove from oven, wrap in small paper bag or a dish towel for 10 minutes. Gently rub the nuts in the bag or towel and the skins should come right off. Coarsely chop and set aside. In a good sized bowl mix oats, dried coconut, flour, soda, powder, salt, flax seeds, and brown sugar until thoroughly combined. Add coconut oil, rice milk, vanilla, and mix well. Fold in chocolate and hazelnuts and mix (hands work well here) until incorporated. Scoop dough into golf ball sized chunks, then roll into balls and place on baking sheet. Flatten each ball with a spatula so they are ½ inch in thickness. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let sit on sheet for 10 minutes before removing to rack to cool completely (now is a good time to eat them). Enjoy! *Feel free to email me at sarahhedger@gmail.com if you have any food-related questions
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COMMUNITY SLO county art scene
Steve Kellogg discusses his work with AAA members
Artists create community in Cambria By Gordon Fuglie
I
t was an unseasonably warm morning in early May when I visited the Allied Arts Association in Cambria. I was greeted by Lynn Rathbun, AAA’s gallery director, and later joined by Stephen Kellogg, President. Both are visual artists, retired from careers in other fields. During my visit I learned that Allied Artists is typical of our county’s many civic art organizations, relying on a committed core leadership of officers with a roster of members. All are volunteers. Such groups are a key element in the cultural life of our communities, often representing the only organized visual art entity in their city.
Allied Artists had to leave their old quarters in 2009 and obtained their current facilities in the offices of the Cambria Unified School District, formerly the grammar school. AAA named their portion of the building the Cambria Center for the Arts. This new location places them strategically between the east and west villages of Cambria on Main Street and near access to Highway 1. In the bargain, AAA obtained a generous parking lot on site. Most importantly, with the wide hallways dedicated to exhibitions, the group gained an open, bright, high-ceilinged flexible space in a “T”-configuration. Last year, hardwood ash flooring was installed, giving the space a clean, elegant look. At one end of the new galleries is a small theater (part of the original school) in which the performing arts members of Allied Artists stage their productions. A non-affiliated community writer’s group also uses the facility. Among the hazards of volunteer artist organizations are temptations to focus on activities that mainly serve its artist membership (creating a public perception of a “members only” entity) and, inevitably, the group’s aging. Time and again, once thriving arts organizations have later found themselves struggling to maintain their mission with dwindling constituencies and leaders. AAA faced this in 2009 when they had to move from their original quarters. Rathbun and Kellogg were forthright about these challenges and told me about the steps they took to open up AAA to the community. Among their first efforts was to engage with the K-12 students in the new school that was built overlooking the town. Nationally, March is Youth Art Month, a national observance sponsored by the Council for Art Education. YAM annually emphasizes the value of art education for children by encouraging support for quality school programs in artistic practice and art history. (It won’t surprise readers of this column that art programs are usually the first to be cut from public school curricula. The longer we do not fund art edu-
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Michelle Campo, Best of Show Winner
COMMUNITY cation – and in many instances it has been years, the greater the artistic ignorance of a generation that increasingly finds its fugitive imagery aglow on video monitors and tiny cell phone screens, instead of contemplating tactile works in galleries and museums.) Taking a proactive role for the arts and art education in Cambria, the Board of Allied Artists announced their mission “to foster, encourage and promote visual and performance arts,” proclaiming “the vitality of the arts in our lives and in our community.” Among their vehicles to this end was YAM, and they have devoted their annual March exhibition slot to student art, K-12, awarding prizes for notable achievements. By adding this dimension to their activities, Allied Artists also brought in Latino families – a growing segment of Cambria’s otherwise older Anglo population. By this gesture alone, the community’s children, parents and senior citizens were brought together through art, and gathered on awards night to celebrate the achievements of budding local artists. In addition, Allied Artists has recently presented works with challenging themes. Last April, artist Erin Perry showed her narrative series “The Pity of War,” mixed media works with an unflinching look at the tragic impact of World Wars I and II on individuals and populations. Rathbun reports a number of visitors were deeply moved by Perry’s stories and images, remarking “this show will be remembered for quite a while.”
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To my surprise, I learned that both Rathbun and Kellogg had careers in science before they turned to art. Rathbun was a laboratory technician who studied animal behavior at Harvard and the Smithsonian, and has traveled around the world with her scientist husband. The precision I saw in her water media work likely derives from her earlier practice as a scientific illustrator. Kellogg was a biology instructor at Chaffey College in Southern California. His ceramic vessels evince a clean modern style, and can also be
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whimsical. Kellogg’s landscape watercolors have a contrastive angularity that is offset by gently rendered skies. To learn more about AAA’s programs and activities, visit www.artistsofcambria.com. The Allied Arts Gallery is open from Friday to Sunday from 11 – 4 pm, 1350 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428; 805-927-8190.
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COMMUNITY
Huttle up A CULINARY AWAKENING By Bob Huttle
“Our minds are like our stomachs; they are whetted by the change of their food and variety supplies both with fresh appetites” ---Marcus Fabius Quintillian (35-90 A.D.) The “Retirement Adventure” continues. After planting our plot in the new community garden, traveling to Ireland for the first time, and taking in my first Kelrick Productions show, Pinkalicious, with two of my grandchildren, I am eager for another “first.” It’s not like I’m in a mad dash to check off bucket list items in record time but I am aware when I read the local obituaries – and I suspect I’m not alone in this somewhat morbid routine – that people in their 40s, 50s, and 60s are often profiled. To tell you the truth, it’s been a trumpet call for me. So I ask myself what’s next up on the agenda for the day? What have I never done that I want to do? It doesn’t have to be a big thing or cost much or take a lot of time. I’m not into thrill-seeking these days, so base jumping, ogling great white sharks from a submerged steel cage, and substitute teaching are out. Ah, I know. Maybe I can work with a professional chef in some capacity. I’m not sure where my love and appreciation for genuinely fine food and wine began. I grew up in the 1950s in a family who ate just to eat. My mom diligently prepared meals EVERY NIGHT and we dined at pretty much the same time EVERY NIGHT when my father came home from work. Don’t misunderstand; I couldn’t have had a better childhood but my parents lived within their means (no credit cards) and dining out at fancy restaurants was rare. Lots of casseroles, white bread, and frozen peas were standard fare. Fifties food. Pre-Julia Child food. Ozzie and Harriet food. It was only much later that I lost my taste for cheap beer and wine; no more Hamm’s or Ripple for me. As for eating a truly memorable meal? Well, The French Laundry and Le Bernardin were still light years away. Let’s just say I evolved over time. So now I’m thinking how can I have an authentic, “in a professional kitchen” experience without a lot of hassle and cost? As it happens, I run into one of my favorite chefs, Jose Dahan, owner of Et Voila Restaurant in San Luis Obispo, at a recent farmers’ market and we
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get to chatting (he in that wonderfully worldly French accent where he pronounces “chicken” as “cheeken”) and he tells me he is going to cook a lunch for 500 people at the Hospice du Rhone event in Paso Robles and would I like to help out? Ha, are you kidding me? Of COURSE I’d love to. I ask him what I would do. He says he’ll put me to work and not to worry. Not to worry? I’m going to work with this masterful culinary artist at a lunch for 500 well-healed gourmands who, as it turns out, have come from all over the country (and maybe even the world) to partake in this 19th annual event and who will be dining on seven magical courses while they sip Tavel Rhone Rose wine from France. Sure, I won’t worry. Right. Well, the day turns out just fine. I show up at the restaurant early one Friday morning. We pack our cars with giant coolers filled with albacore steaks, rounds of manchego cheese (which I will cut into triangles for two hours), fresh fruits, greens, and vegetables; containers of white beans, pancetta, olives, bread, fresh lemon juice, triple chocolate brownies (homemade, not Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker), homemade vanilla ice cream... and “cheeken.” We also load pots, cutting boards, a cast iron grill, buckets, utensils, and serving pans. All together, there is enough to feed Napoleon’s Grande Army.
Chef Jose Dahan, Elizabeth and Evelyn in the Hospice du Rhone kitchen
I expect chaos in the kitchen: lots of shouting, high heat, slippery floors, sweat, knife cuts, and Iron Chef tension. There’s none of that (well, maybe a few minutes of pronounced firmness when the deadline approaches for everything to turn out on time and delicious). Chef Jose is definitely in charge and his enthusiasm and expertise carry the day. I can’t speak for my crew mates Terrence, Evelyn, Elizabeth, and Carl, but for me the kitchen energy is electric and I’m ready to volunteer for another event. Maybe Nora Ephron captured my experience best when she said “What I love about cooking is that... there is something comforting about the fact that [when} you melt butter and add flour, then hot stock, it will get thick. It’s a sure thing in a world where nothing is sure.” A new A+ adventure? Check. (Note: Jose’s restaurant, Et Voila, is located in the SLO Bear Valley Center. It’s a real treasure in the SLO food scene. Take someone you love.) Bob Huttle can be reached at rhuttle@charter.net. He welcomes your comments.
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dog next door Pequena: Devoted Caregiver, carefree retiree By Jeanne Harris
P
equena, whose name means “little one” in Spanish, Pequena with Bob, 2010 is a 17-year-old miniature schnauzer who loves to power walk. She’s a dynamo in a diminutive, 8 ½-pound body. Her heartiness and determination are matched only by her sweetness and quiet love. Pequena came to the Central Coast about a year ago, after living most of her life in Fresno. She spends her days with her mom, Bunny Morrow. They are an inseparable duo. She goes for car rides around town, as well as on long road trips, riding “shotgun” on her blue and white floral dog bed. While at home, Pequena spends hours “working out” in the backyard, strutting methodically, bow-legged like a cowboy, at a steady clip around the perimeter of the backyard, around and around, until she meets her fitness goals. She then retreats to the house for a snooze. She sleeps deeply, tongue lolling out the side of her mouth, snoring up a storm. Once awake, she finds her buddy and housemate, Hummer, a black Labrador retriever she adores. She follows him everywhere, like a smitten schoolgirl, and when he lies down, she stands in front of him, nose to nose. Pequena’s life today is very different from her life in Fresno. There she had a job, a very important job. She was a devoted caretaker of Bunny’s dad, Bob. She provided him with companionship, patience, humor, loyalty, and undying love. After Bunny’s mother, Ginny, passed away in 2006, Pequena became Bob’s closest companion and confidante. Pequena’s place was on Bob’s lap or tucked in between him and the arm of his easy chair. They spent most of their time watching television and discussing world events. As they sat together, Bob stroked her soft, curly, charcoal-colored fur and talked sweetly to her, complimenting her beautiful, expressive brown eyes and her lovely, silken paws. This was the soft side of a man who spent many years as a colonel in the U.S. Army and National Guard. Pequena was an excellent, appreciative listener, and some days, the only living being Bob talked to was the attentive schnauzer. When Bob’s health began to decline, he and Pequena moved from their house in Fresno with an ambling backyard, to a lovely retirement community nearby. They shared a comfortable one-bedroom apartment and were happy to be together. That was a stipulation of Bob’s and a selling point of the retirement community: wherever he moved, Pequena must be allowed as well. However, the new place presented challenges. Pequena was used to easy access to the backyard in their old house, but in the apartment she had no way to get outdoors, and Bob was increasingly unable to take her out. As a result, she began eliminating on the floor, not because she wanted to or was being naughty; she had no other option. It was a difficult situation. Clint, the manager of the retirement community offered to help. He was committed to making accommodations for the residents and their animals. He knew how important Pequena’s presence was to Bob and was determined to find a solution. As it turned out, Clint had gone through training with an organization called the Eden Alternative. Their website states that it is a group “dedicated to improving
the lives of the elder and their care partners by transforming communities where they live and work.” He came up with an ingenious idea. They placed a ramp outside a low, ground-level window in Bob’s apartment. The ramp stretched to a fenced outside area. All Bob had to do was open the window and place Pequena on the ramp. She could then walk down the gradual incline, do her business, and walk back up to the window. It worked like a charm! Bob was elated. Bob and Pequena enjoyed their life at the retirement community for six months. But during that time, Bob’s health continued to fail. In January of last year, at age 93, Bob passed away, with Pequena lying next to him on his bed. Bunny was there too. Bunny made sure Bob’s trusted, loving friend attended his funeral. Pequena sat quietly in Pequena enjoying her daily workout, 2011 church during the service and kissed Bob’s casket before the burial. Her time as a caregiver officially ended then. She certainly misses Bob, her lifelong pal, and sometimes seems a bit lost and unsure of her purpose, but now it’s her turn to retire. Like many elderly ladies, Pequena has aches and pains and takes medications to ease them. She receives regular acupuncture treatments, which help keep her spry and able to continue her daily exercise routine. Bunny loves Pequena and takes extra special care of her because she is a connection with, and an extension of her dad. She is grateful for Pequena’s sweet enduring love and is honored to be entrusted with her care. Enjoy your retirement, Pequena. You earned it. To learn more about the Eden Alternative, visit their website at www. edenalt.org.
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COMMUNITY
Our Schools:
LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS MATTER By Dr. Julian Crocker, County Superintendent of Schools
A
t the end of each school year, I am always impressed by the generosity of our local community and the amount of money that is given for college scholarships. Approximately $2 million is given each year in local scholarships to high school seniors who are planning to attend either a two-year or a four year college or university. This amount does not include grants, scholarships or loans that students may receive from their college. Locally, that’s about $750 per graduating senior, or enough to cover the cost of tuition to community college for every high school graduate in San Luis Obispo County. This financial commitment sends is a very positive message to students that it is important to continue their education beyond high school. This year there are almost 2700 graduating seniors from our nine comprehensive high schools and nine alternative high schools (Continuation High Schools and Community Schools). Each year, approximately half of the graduates, or 1300 students, will attend a community college. Of the other half, about 700 plan to attend a four year college or university and another 700 will attend a trade or technical school, join the military services or go directly into the workplace. Given the steep increase in tuition, fees and expenses at both the community colleges and four year colleges, financial assistance in the form of scholarships is even more important for our graduates. This past year, the average total cost for attending a California Community College was in the $15,000 to $22,000 range depending on
the housing arrangement. The total cost of attending a California State University campus ranges from $15,000 to $22,000 and at the University of California campuses, the costs can reach almost $30,000. The costs include tuition, fees, books, transportation and room and board. These costs will be increased for the next school year, 2011-2012. The primary sources of local scholarships are service clubs, community groups, individuals and foundations. Most scholarships are based on a combination of financial need, academic record and plans for future education. However the intent of the donor is the most important factor. Locally, the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation distributes the largest amount of money for scholarships on behalf of its donors. These donors have established endowments that generate the funding for scholarships each year. The Community Foundation achieved a major milestone this year having awarded over $1 million in scholarships to over 600 local students since beginning the awards in 2003! Here are a couple of examples of local scholarships distributed each year by the Community Foundation.
RICHARD J. WEYHRICH LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP This scholarship is funded from an endowment established by Richard J Weyhrich who was a West Point graduate and served in the US Army. After retiring from the military service, Mr. Weyhrich moved to the south county and established a very successful financial consulting business. Mr. Weyhrich passed away in 2002 and bequeathed a very generous portion of his estate as an endowment for scholarships to recognize and assist students with leadership potential. This year, students from every high school, public and private, in the county had the opportunity to apply and 21 leadership scholarships were awarded each for $2300. The recipients were also recognized by the County Board of Supervisors at their May 24th meeting.
PAUL YEAGER SCIENCE SCHOLARSHIp This is a four year scholarship for students from either Paso Robles High School or Coast Union High School who are planning a career in the physical sciences or related fields. Again, this is an endowed scholarship established by the donor at the Community Foundation. This scholarship is intended for students who would find attending college to be financially difficult. An interesting aspect of this scholarship is the requirement that the recipient attend a California Community College for two years before transferring to a CSU or UC campus for two years. The scholarship amount is $1500 per semester for four semesters at a community college and then $3500 per semester for four semesters at a CSU or UC campus. This year, two scholarships were awarded. Students in our county are very fortunate to have such a supportive group of local donors who are willing to assist them with their next education step. J U N E
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JULY 7-10, 2011 • www.centralcoastwineclassic.org
Schedule of Activities
Unless otherwise indicated, all Central Coast Wine Classic activities are presented at The Avila Beach Golf Resort in Avila Beach, California
T H U R S D AY, J U LY 7
2 PM to 5 PM – Barrel Tasting, featuring yet-to-be-released wines from an array of California wineries at the Avila Lighthouse Suites in Avila Beach – $30.00 per person 5 PM – Dinner at Hearst Castle in San Simeon, featuring Hawaii Chefs Roy Yamaguchi, D.K. Kodama and George Mavrothalassitis, six courses with matching wines from Vintner Dignitaries – $1250.00 Per Person 7 PM – Fifth Annual Central Coast Wine Classic Paulée/ “Bring-Your-Own Special Bottle” Dinner – $95.00 per person
F R I D AY, J U LY 8
Join us for the festivities of the 27th Annual Central Coast Wine Classic, featuring four event-filled days celebrating the wines, cuisine, music, art and lifestyle of California’s Central Coast.
8 AM to 1:30 PM – Central Coast Cycling Classic with Carissa Chappellet, including winery visits, a wine luncheon in wine country & return transportation – $75.00 per person 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM – Malbec Varietal Symposium, hosted by wine educator and author, Karen MacNeil, featuring Malbec from Argentina and from an array of excellent California wineries. – $45.00 per person 11 AM to 1:30 PM – Cooking Demonstration & Luncheon, hosted by Narsai David and featuring Chef D.K. Kodama and Chef Mavro, with the Cuisine paired with Fine Wines – $95.00 per person 2 PM to 4 PM – Maisons, Marques & Domaines Fine Wine Symposium, hosted by Xavier Barlier, presenting Rare and Fine Wines from throughout the world at the Avila Lighthouse Suites – $55.00 per person 2 PM to 4PM – Cheese Symposium with Kent Torrey, Owner of The Cheese Shop in Carmel – $45.00 per person 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM – Roederer Estate Anderson Valley Sparkling Wine Discussion & Reception, hosted by Xavier Barlier and Archie McLaren, at the Avila Lighthouse Suites – $45.00 per person 7 PM – Winery Dinners at Restaurants and Wineries throughout San Luis Obispo County – $95.00 per person 7 PM to 10 PM – VIP Outdoor Dinner and Concert at the Avila Beach Golf Resort, the concert featuring world-renowned percussionist, Airto Moreira, and his group of remarkable, stellar percussionists, with Cuisine presented by Central Coast Chefs Laurent Grangien, Rick Manson, Ian McPhee & Frank Ostini, and Fine Wines from Ancient Peaks, Center of Effort Winery & Sinor-Lavallee – $125.00 per person
S AT U R D AY, J U LY 9
10 AM to 5 PM – Rare & Fine Wine & Lifestyle Auction and Silent Auction, including Luncheon presented by Chefs Laurent Grangien, Rick Manson, Ian McPhee and Frank Ostini – $125.00 per person
S U N D AY, J U LY 1 0
10 AM to 11:15 AM – Chardonnay Terroir Symposium, hosted by Master Sommelier and Vintner, Larry Stone, presenting fine Chardonnay from an array of California appellations – $45.00 per person 1 PM to 4 PM – Reserve Wine Tasting, featuring the Most Special Wines of 50 California wineries, with culinary samplings from fine Central Coast restaurants – $45.00 per person
Please contact Archie McLaren for further information and registration: email: archie@slonet.org;Telephone: (805) 544-1285; cellular 878-3124; fax 595-2742; Wine Classic website: www.centralcoastwineclassic.org
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COMMUNITY Indeed, she had. Artist Kay’s submission: a stylized mission bell amid a blue, yellow and white background spent its first official day next to the Stars and Stripes and the California State flags. A formal Resolution on September 20 adopted her submission as the official City flag.
history
San Luis Obispo
city flag By Joseph A. Carotenuti
A
s one of the oldest settlements in California, San Luis Obispo traces its civic ancestry back to September 1, 1772 when Franciscan Padre Junipero Serra first tolled a bell to celebrate the founding of the fifth mission. While there was no intention of establishing a secular community, one evolved around the adobe symbol of a spiritual one. Eventually, the city’s official identification reflected the aged structure.
Marion explains the yellow used in her original design represents the golden hills and mountains, the cobalt blue for clear skies and the curving white center design for the San Luis Creek flowing through the community. In acknowledgement of its historic past, an arch (reminiscent of mission architecture) surrounds the bell that dominates the flag. However, changes in the lettering of the original design occurred during the manufacturing process.
Here’s the story.
As with so much of the decades-long debate over the evolution and construction of the Mission Plaza, the flag produced its own bit of anxiety.
In preparation for the its Bicentennial Year, residents were invited to submit designs for the first official flag. Submissions were to measure three by four and one-half feet. The 45 designs were judged by a Design Review Board that later became the Architectural Review Commission with a top prize of one hundred dollars. Residents also cast their opinions as the models were displayed on downtown light standards for viewing and voting. It was a hot Saturday afternoon on September 11, 1971 when a program not only to inaugurate the Bicentennial Year but to dedicate the second phase of the Mission Plaza extension was celebrated by hundreds of residents. Led by Mayor Kenneth Schwartz, everyone was wondering who among the three finalists… Nejat Erem, Marion Kay, and Vickie Reynolds…would see their creation as the first City flag. The winning design and manufacture had been kept secret with the three finalists announced just a few days before the ceremony. Suspense built as the third-place winner of the $25 prize was announced…and then the second place submission ($50). In a moment of civic and personal drama, an 8 x 12 foot flag with the winning design was raised over Mission Plaza. It suddenly became clear…Marion Kay remembers saying to herself in amazement: “I won!”
Made by a firm in San Francisco, there was a delay in shipping the flag to San Luis Obispo. Thanks to a quick drive by the City Clerk (J. H. Fitzpatrick) to the manufacturer at the “eleventh” hour, the flag arrived in time for the ceremony. While retired, this original flag survives in a personal collection. Marion Kay recalls approaching the contest with methodical planning to create a “pleasing design” as well as colors to complement the City’s natural and historical assets. Part of the process included creating accurate paper patterns using the Libra design for the lettering on the flag. Once completed, the letters – now cut from fabric – were sewn onto the flag. While not uniformly applied, virtually everyone in the community sees the design – or an adaptation of it – on a daily basis. The elegant city logo is seen on municipal vehicles, uniforms, letterheads, advertisements, and brochures, even busses…although the latter omit the stripe between the blue and gold. The distinctive original letter design is used on virtually all municipal signs. Ironically, the Libra letter design is used everywhere but on the flag. Having the three flags in the Mission Plaza was preceded with fundraising for the flagpoles. The Rotary Club of San Luis Obispo (at the time there was only one Rotary in the City while today there are three) donated three flagpoles appropriately dedicated during the previous Fourth of July festivities. The Rotary Four-Way Test was included on the dedicatory plaque to remind generations to come of changeless values for our country, our community and ourselves. The slightly altered flag is seen today only in Mission Plaza and in the City Council chambers. Wouldn’t it be appropriate to have the original design fluttering over City Hall on a new flag standard? As residents and visitors enjoy our community, the three flags in rhythm with the breeze are satisfying reminders of our past as a Nation, State and City as well as beacons of hope and promise for our future.
Marion Kay J U N E
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Thank you to Marion Kay and Ken Schwartz for sharing their memories. The Historical Society has replicates of the original design for sale in the Museum’s Gift Shop.
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COMMUNITY
A Retirement Facility Even though the prospect of moving may be in the distant ithin the space of a future, you owe it to yourself to learn how you can enjoy few years, I lost three family carefree living in your own home for many years to come. members to chronic illness. I
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hospice corner
was in seminary at the time, and had to choose an internship program. Because of my recent life experiences, I chose hospice. Through that internship, I discovered the It’s awhat it means to be a hospice partners chaplain fact of life that as we get older, Pristine is fully Sacred inherent in the process of death and the care for the dying. When a patient some day-to-day tasks become too licensed and insured. By Lorrie Erno and family invite you into their home as much to handle on our own. That All of our workers they are going through this very tender doesn’t mean you have to move away are carefully time, screened when they allow you to be with them sharing and supporting them, there’s a from the comfort of your home. and pass a criminal profound sacredness to the experience. •
YouTo bring light into a dark place – Don’t Have to Move Feel Safe and Secure
• •
Pristine Home Services is aHousekeeping local background check Personal Care company that helps San Luis Obispo and drug test,Thegiving you peace counselor, of mind chaplain, or spiritual • Handyman Yard Maintenance County residents avoid the high cost
provides spiritual support to our hospice when someone from Pristine is working
patients and their families. We don’t preach Servingof moving All oftoSan Luis facility. Obispo County a retirement in your home.or proselytize; rather, we come alongside
“She helps me with bathing and other Enjoy Affordable Living own beliefs, and to help them draw on their personal care. She is so wonderful to me. Home Services Specialist each individual to support them in their
spiritual strengths in order to ease the jourAll of our services can be provided She should be …and price is neycloned! through the end of the life. We distinguish daily, weekly, or on an as-needed basis. very reasonable. Shefrom even“religion.” did mySpirituality winspirituality From housekeeping You to handyman services and plumbing to preparingyou meals.need There is no task too large or is what gives meaning and purpose pay for only the services Sanone Luis Obispo dows!” R. Watson, too small for Pristineand Homewe Services. All of our those services can be providedatdaily, weekly, or on an as-needed and value in life. Of course, many people provide services a price find their through organized basis. You pay for only the services you need and we provide those services at a price you can“They afford. took the timespirituality to ask me exactly you can afford. religion. But spirituality can be haddid through what I wanted. They arrived on time, relationship, through loving and nurturing Pristine Home Services made it possible exactlyforwhatpeople, I asked, and the price was Convenient One-call through nature, through creativity us to stayService comfortable and independent reasonable. –I itwould recommend Pristine can take many different forms. All those in our home. When Mary was diagnosed Our personal care services include things can beSan sources of Obispo spiritual strength to a friend. ” C. Hall, Luis with cancer, is no longer a threat, the shopping, daily errands, mealwhich preparaand support during this journey. Our goal people at Pristine became a very important is to help any peopledecisions identify theirthat spiritual tion, transportation part andofnon-medical Before you make our team. They were trustworthy, strengths and help support them during care. Our housekeeping services keep your future happiness reliable and always stood by ourcould side. Weaffectthis difficult time. our relationship their staff. your kitchen and thetruly restenjoy of your home withand standard of living, take the time Smith Many families have a very strong connecspotless. We even do windows and-- Don and Mary to read these two FREE reports: tion with their own faith community, and laundry. Our yard maintenance crews have a lot of support and don’t want or feel Before you make any decisions that could affect your future happiness and standard of living, take every “What senior needs to know know how to take care of your favorite the need for another person in the mix. the time to read these two FREE reports: about living a retirement facility.” Andin often people with a strong religious rose bushes and keep the grass neatly “What every senior needs to know about living in a retirement facility.” orientation in a particular faith tradition mowed. Our handyman services are “Four critical tosomeone ask a who is not don’t questions understand how “Four critical questions to ask a service provider...before you let anyone work in or near your home.” provided by specialists in plumbing, of their particular religion canlet support service provider . . . before you them. But we see ourselves as an extension We invite you to call Pristine rightwork, now so that we can sendrepairs you these two FREE reports by mail. electrical painting, and anyone work in or near your home.” of their faith community, not to replace safety rail installation. theirto spiritual guides but to help them. The Call for rateS We invite you call Pristine right Hospice Chaplain can visit, not in place of now so thatthem webut can send you these in addition to them, and offer adtwo FREE reports by mail. ditional support.
We Bring Assisted Living Home You Whatever you need...give us atocall
Being able to connect(4663) deeply with a patient (805) 543-HOME and family is most meaningful to me. I feel Call when Today honored they share their life stories
805-543-4663 www.pristinehomeservices.net 710 FIERO LANE, UNIT 16 SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401 H O U S E K E E P I N G · YA R D M A I N T E N A N C E · H A N D Y M A N S E R V I C E S · P E R S O N A L C A R E J U N E
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and faith stories with me. I feel honored to be able to affirm their life journey. Patients can suffer from spiritual pain which is not a part of their physical illness, but it’s a critical issue nonetheless. The Hospice Chaplain can
COMMUNITY help by becoming intimate enough with a person so they feel comfortable enough to share some of their deep struggles, and find release and relief in expressing them. I don’t give people answers to questions, but I help facilitate people finding their own answers, going deeply into the discovery of their own answers to the questions they may have at the end of life. Sometimes I meet someone at the very end of their life. I find it beautiful when I can gather the family around the patient and encourage them to share memories of their loved one, give them opportunity to say goodbye, to say things about each other, and to each other, that up until now they might not have had the opportunity to share. And to be allowed to be fully present right at the moment of a person’s death, providing support to them and their loved ones, is incredibly meaningful. Physical, emotional and spiritual care for the dying is not a job for one person. As a hospice team, we all work together, doing our part to help provide this positive experience for patients and families. Sometimes we go to dark places: we find people alone in a room, with nobody there to help them, nobody in their lives. Or we find families doing their best but also dealing with grief and fear as well as the practical demands of caregiving. And we as a team bring light into that dark place, we bring care and compassion and love.
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JUNE SUDOKU PRESENTED BY
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This monthly Hospice Corner is sponsored by Hospice Partners of the Central Coast. Lorrie Erno is one of four Hospice Chaplains at Hospice Partners. For more information, call (805) 782-8608.
SUDOKU SOLUTIONS ON PAGE 43 J U N E
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Hospice “Pardners” Hoedown Saturday - August 6, 2011 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm
with
$85
Monte Mills & the Lucky Horseshoe Band
per person
at the Barbeque
Hearst Ranch Live Western Band
Attendance limited to 350 guests Hosted by Hospice Partners of the Central Coast Ticket purchase required prior to event
Dancing
Bar
Door Prizes
Proceeds benefit patients of Hospice Partners of the Central Coast & their families Call for Event Tickets
805-782-8608
2010 Sponsors Hearst Corporation Steve Hearst Journal Plus Magazine Rotary Club of Nipomo Spencer's Fresh Markets F. McLintocks Babe Farms Cattaneo Bros. Natalia Thompson
New Times Doc Burnstein's Ice Cream Firestone Walker Brewing Co. Hearst Castle Browder Painting Co. La Bella Olives Kimpton Group Ignition 36 Phyllis Tiegs
Food-4-Less Harvey's Honey Huts Mission Country Disposal Spectrum Color Images Farm Supply Trader Joe’s Miller Event Security Charles W. Miller Kristi & Jim Jenkins
Monte Mills & The Lucky Horseshoe Band Crystal Springs Water Bill Gaines Audio First Transit of San Simeon Taylor Rental KCOY 12 FOX 11 The Tribune
Hospice Partners of the Central Coast is a non-profit 501(C)3 state licensed, Medicare and Medi-Cal certified Hospice Agency and is affiliated with Wilshire Health & Community Services, Inc.
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Downtown
Around
The Magazine of Downtown San Luis Obispo
Inside:
W h a t ’s U p New Business News
June 2011
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Operating Plan, now nearing the end of its five-year revision. The plan will assist us as we navigate the ‘new economy’ where, according to the city’s sales tax newsletter, ‘it appears that revenues are slowly recovering to a new lower base.’ In other words, while it doesn’t appear the ship’s still sinking, the waters probably won’t rise to levels previously enjoyed. So, our challenge now is to capitalize on the Deborah Cash, CMSM, positives, of which we have many: history, Executive Director culture, shopping, dining, charm, events—a diverse range of experiences we believe offer a broad based appeal and that we can mine for new angles. hile we’re not surprised, we’re gratified to be ake for instance our current work to develop, able to quantify the programs we host that eventually, a more robust evening economy, ‘the contribute to the beauty and excitement that serve other 9 to 5’ if you will, where businesses will begin to draw tourists and locals alike into the district to extend their hours more collectively and people and provide those who work and live here a safe will have the opportunity to enjoy Downtown at night and comfortable setting for their daily lives. as well as during the day. Starting with a process to ow to continue this level of viability and success? evaluate, manage, plan and police Downtown called For starters, the Downtown Association will be Nightlife Public Safety Assessment, a Transformation looking, over the next year or so, to update its Strategic
nd of year (2010) sales tax reports once again show the Downtown business district as the second largest income generating area in the city. That’s a few percentage points behind the Laguna-Los Osos Valley Road area, home to Costco and big box retail and the car dealerships. If you’ve been following local budgetary discussions lately, most cities—including ours—rely heavily on sales tax income to fund their programs; that we provide a major chunk of change to the local economy is a sign we’re doing something right down here.
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On the Cover: They're here! Concerts in the Plaza starts up June 10 and runs through September 2, every Friday from 5:30 to 7:30 PM in
Mission Plaza, Downtown SLO. This wildly popular musical event has inspired similar events around the county and continues to be a huge draw for the after-work and family crowd wanting to enjoy the area's finest musicians in a beautiful setting before strolling Downtown. Truth About Seafood drummer Wyatt Lund is having as much fun as the audience during one of last year's shows. See this year's entire lineup including Truth About Seafood on June 17 in our Journal ad and become a fan of Concerts in the Plaza on Facebook. Photo by Deborah Cash
AN ONLINE DIRECTORY... A Network of Trusted, Pre-Screened Professionals Offering Seniors Caring & Reliable Local Services
Partnership for the Children of San Luis Obispo County &
present the 5th Annual
Sunset
barbecue Saturday, June 4th • 5pm
A Fundraiser to Benefit La Clinica de Tolosa Children’s Dental Clinic
•
Pharmacies
•
Home Care/Senior Placement
•
Medical Providers/Mobility Equipment
•
Home Maintenance/Safety Improvements
•
Other Support Services
6717 Avila Valley Road, Avila Beach
Appetizers
provided by Dining with André
BBQ Dinner
prepared by Kiwanis SLO de Tolosa
Dessert & Coffee by Dining with André & Black Horse Espresso
Wine Tasting
Eberle Winery • Halter Ranch • St. Hilaire Winery • Tolosa Winery • Wood Winery
Live Music & Dancing
featuring “Unfinished Business” – ’60s Rock-N-Roll Band
MAG-nificent Wine Raffle • Auction Ticket Donation $75 per person* OR $750 Premium Table for 8 (Includes 2 bottles of wine for the table, first through buffet line.)
Call 801-5433 for tickets *Partnership for the Children / La Clinica de Tolosa is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Fed. Tax ID 77-0346861
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Team has begun the process to help create a safe and vibrant place for people to socialize—in turn, generating economy while ‘fixing’ some of the issues currently associated with the VERY late night activity. Lighting is key and is likely to be a major goal of the organization for the next few years. You’ve been ‘kept in the dark’ long enough, don’t you think?
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nother trend we’ll likely latch on to is encouraging residential living in and near Downtown. Big cities, especially, are shrinking as people look to live in more comfortable and accommodating surroundings. According to Doug Loescher, Director of the National Trust Main Street program says that the 2010 census was ‘bad news’ for many big cities that suffered population declines such as Chicago and St. Louis. Interesting though that both those cities, and others, showed that the downtowns of both places gained people in huge numbers. Key to this turn of events? “Places that lacked commercial and social vitality did not fare well in the last decade, but those with high levels of walkability, density and mixed use are a different story,” Loescher said. Though we’re smaller scale than say, the Windy City, those attributes locally could mean residential growth for Downtown SLO as well.
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rts and cultural events will continue to figure heavily in programs of the Downtown Association— witness the success of Art After Dark and the Plein Air Festival—as will historic preservation and adaptive reuse, advocating for the repair and maintenance of Downtown’s (also historic in many cases!) infrastructure, and as always, ensuring that parking remains at adequate levels. Interestingly, Doug’s article also addresses the importance of a ‘park once’ environment that along with a ‘place-making dividend,’ contributes to the reason Main Streets have fared far better than the malls, which he characterizes as a “50 year-old-love affair between retail and strip centers that is coming to an end.”
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nother caveat for moving forward and finding new ways to stay economically viable is to not rely on past accomplishments. Dan LoBianco, executive director for Main Street DuBuque Ltd. (Iowa), helped his program garner the Great American Main Street Award in 1995. San Luis Obispo was a 1999 winner of the award. Says LoBianco, “Be proud of what you’ve done but continually strive to improve the downtown. There’s always something you can do. You never stop being a GAMSA!” Buoyed by that inspiration and aware of our role as a key player in the City’s economy, we’ll do our best to keep doing our best…around Downtown.
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N e w
B u s i n e s s
N e w s marriage and family therapist, ChristieJohnson specializes in short-term work with adolescents and their families and young adults. She focuses on using a cognitive approach with solution-focused, strength-based and narrative techniques.
Anja Christie-Johnson, LMFT 1075 Court Street, Suite #207 215-2083
The office of Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Anja ChristieJohnson is located above Peet’s Coffee & Tea in Downtown San Luis Obispo. A native of Nova Scotia, Canada, ChristieJohnson came to California in 1996 to work with troubled youth in San Jose and earned her masters degree in clinical psychology at Antioch University in Santa Barbara in 2006. Christie-Johnson was a support group leader at Grizzly Youth Academy and Juvenile Hall when she worked as a Hospice of San Luis Obispo counselor and has extensive history in working with youth. Christie-Johnson attributes her desire to help those in emotional need to the teachings and actions of her mother, a minister who modeled holding hope for those who have none. As a licensed
Raised in a stress-filled environment, Christie-Johnson says she was “missing a therapist in her childhood.” ChristieJohnson opened her office in the Downtown in December 2010 and enjoys her close proximity to local businesses in San Luis Obispo. About her clients, Christie-Johnson says, “I’ve seen them get better and have seen it work. When you see that it makes a difference it’s easy to hold hope for people.” Christie-Johnson says she is excited about her future in San Luis Obispo, providing care for those in need of healing. For more information or to make an appointment please contact Anja Christie-Johnson at (805) 215-2083. By Natalie Stone to follow his passion of surfing while also working in the surf industry. “ I love surfing and being close to the coast. We’re close to the big cities and I love the hometown feeling and Downtown of San Luis,” Ayer states.
Moshpit Digital
Peter Ayer, Owner 738 Higuera Street, Suite A 1-877-770-MOSH (6674) www.MoshpitDigital.com Peter Ayer is the founder and sole owner of Moshpit Digital, a graphic design company that is bringing a youthful approach to the design industry in San Luis Obispo. Ayer earned his bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Cal Poly and has practiced his passion for design and graphics for over 10 years.
The new year brought new business to Moshpit Digital providing Ayer with numerous clients: US Cyrotherapy, Drum Circuit, Alpha Fire, SLO Brew, Niites.com, Rebelution, Still Time and Mo | Tav to name a few. Ayer’s dream is for Moshpit Digital to eventually grow while maintaining its professional and youthful reputation.
A native of Vacaville, Ayer moved to San Luis Obispo in 1997 to pursue a degree in graphic design. The designer worked for Chino’s Rock & Tacos, marketing and redesigning the restaurant’s branding to become what it is today. After working for three years at Chino’s, Ayer fulfilled his demand to work on other projects starting with designing for Surf Magazine, Deep.
Moshpit Digital, whose name was inspired after Ayer realized his abundance of energy in his design approach, is serving San Luis Obispo with a talented and seasoned designer who has a fresh outlook on the design industry. Hours vary, contact for appointment.
Living on the Central Coast has given the designer the opportunity
By Natalie Stone its online business in 2008 and opened its doors in San Luis Obispo at 863 Monterey Street in September 2010.
EcoBambino
Ariana Spaulding (pictured) and Amanda Spaulding, Co-owners 863 Monterey Street 540-7222 www.ShopEcoBambino.com Customers are welcomed through the doors of EcoBambino to the sounds of lively, tribal music, brightly painted walls, smiling baby faces, and an array of children’s toys. This children’s store is not a typical toy or clothing store for little ones that most would expect, but is happily surprising parents and buyers of children’s items by the products offered. EcoBambino is an eco-friendly, organic, and natural children’s store that sells everything from clothes and toys (mostly wooden and all nonbattery operated) to cribs, mealtime items, and even strollers. The vision of this store was birthed after Ariana Spaulding’s son was born in 2006. During the time of toy recalls by numerous companies, Ariana went on a search for safe, organic, natural toys for her son to play with. The family-owned business opened
Ariana grew up with the mindset of doing what one loves for their career, instilled by her father and local business owner Pierre Rademaker. With the help of Amanda Spaulding, co-owner and sister-in-law, EcoBambino opened its doors by encouraging parents to provide their children with more simplistic and natural products. EcoBambino supports children’s well being as well as parent and child time, offering weekly song times, baby-wearing groups, and cloth diapering meetings. Ariana and Amanda are passionate about what they do and what their business stands for and will continue to provide natural and safe products for children to use and parents to feel safe buying. Hours of operation are Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. and closed Mondays. By Natalie Stone
THE BULLETIN BOARD
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SLO flag available at History Center Real Estate
Lynn R. Cooper Broker Associate Seniors Real Estate Specialist
Office: 805-543-7727 Fax: 805-543-7838 Cell: 805-235-0493 Home: 805-544-0673
711 Tank Farm, Suite 100 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 E-mail: lynn.cooper@sothebysrealty.com Website: www.wilsonandcosir.com
The Growing Investment Jefferson Clapp Private Business Consultant
Over 35 Years Experience Specializing in: Advertising Business Management Human Resources P.O. Box13728 San Luis Obispo, CA 93406
(805) 773-1714 e-mail: mr2449@att.net
San Luis Obispo original City flag. Designed by artist Marion Kay in 1971. 12” x 18” replica is available for $19.95, at the History Center of SLO County, 696 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, 805-543-0638, or www. historycenterslo.org.
help out the pacific wildlife care Every spring, baby birds, baby mammals who have been orphaned or injured arrive at PWC’s Rehabilitation Center unnecessarily! YOU can help by following these guidelines and sharing them with others: When trimming bushes or trees, inspect before you disturb a nest. Wait until nesting season is over. If you find an uninjured fawn, do not pick it up! Fawns are often left alone for periods of time while the mother (doe) is foraging for food. Baby birds with no feathers can be put back in the nest. Call PWC hot-line when you see baby mammals. 543-9453. Never feed wildlife you do find. Pacific Wildlife Care is SLO County’s only non-profit wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organization & is supported by members and donors. www.pacificwildlifecare.org
11th annual gene cerise memorial bike ride The 11th Annual Gene Cerise Memorial Country Coast Class Bike Ride (25 mile, 50 mile and 100 miles) benefiting the YMCA Cambria Teen Center will be held on Saturday, June 25th at Shamel Park in Cambria. The event has full SAG support; well-stocked rest stops; and post-ride salmon, chicken or vegetarian lasagne meal is included. For more information and sign-up: www.countrycoastclassic.org or call 805-924-0223.
a Fundraising spelling bee for grown-ups
QUALITY AUTO REPAIR 805-543-3180 www.wronas.com
John Kimball
109 South Street SLO, CA 93401
“Specializing in Honesty and Integrity”
Gary A. Sage License No. 0E02096 100 Cross Street, Suite 203 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 gsage@dibu.com J U N E
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(805) 593-1400 (805) 593-1401 fax (805) 593-1413 direct (805) 235-1043 cell
Journal PLUS
The Literacy Council for SLO County is hosting a friendly FUNd-raising competition. Starting at 7:00 p.m. Saturday June 4, 2011, at The Monday Club in SLO. Share lots of laughs, taste wines poured by local wineries and enjoy savory/sweet treats provided by several fine food establishments as you help sustain the county-wide literacy program. Form or join a team of four. Promote your team’s businesses in fun ways. Invite your friends to join in the merriment as audience members and to “bee” available to toss you a lifeline. Should you bee-come bee-fuddled by a bee-deviling word…for a bee-fittingly nominal fee…(bee sure to bring lots of $$$) you may attempt to: sting your competitors by bee-quething it to them or buzz a friend in the audience to spell the word on your bee-half or even bee-dazzle the judges with a bee-nign bribe (to bee-stow upon the Literacy Council, of course ). $100.00 per person on a team. $40.00 per person audience member. To sign up: call 541-4219 or go to www.sloliteracy.org.
slo select and midcoast care join The Central Coast’s only locally-owned Physician Networks are joining forces and changing names to reflect a unified network for the Central Coast. SLO Select, based in San Luis Obispo, and Midcoast Care, based in Santa Maria, are now Physicians Choice Medical Group. For more information contact Barbara Cheever, Executive Director, Managed Care Systems, LP 805-903-1712.
New executive director at woods humane society In an effort to continue and expand the care provided to the homeless cats and dogs in our area and the related services provided to the entire community, Woods Humane Society is very pleased to announce that it has hired an Executive Director. Cory Karpin comes to Woods with excellent non-profit experience, most recently as Executive Director of the Foundation for the Performing Arts Center, SLO. Prior to moving to the Central Coast, Cory served as the Manager of Corporate, Government & Foundation Relations of the San Francisco Jazz Organization in San Francisco.
THE BULLETIN BOARD NEW TO TOWN?
Get your free welcome packet! It includes maps, civic info, coupons from cafes, groceries, wineries, auto hardware, garden, medical, dental, etc. Call your hostess or go to centralcoastwelcome.com
Liz Hiatt Owner
•
SLO: Mary Bettencourt: 545-0731
773-6418
•
Los Osos/Morro Bay/Cayucos/Cambria: Aloma Davis: 235-1131
•
Nipomo/5 Cities/Avila: Liz Hiatt: 773-6418
•
North County: Sandy Hexberg: 238-1529
centralcoastwelcome@gmail.com
A FREE SERVICE TO NEWCOMERS
food, music and fun every tuesday in atascadero Another summer of delicious BBQ’s and beautiful music, begins Tuesday June 14th and continues every Tuesday evening throughout the summer. The Atascadero Elks Lodge BBQ crew will once again prepare the meals hosted by various community organizations. The barbequed chicken and sirloin complete with beans, bread and salad is served from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by the Atascadero Community Band performing free “Big Band” concerts from 7 until 8:00 p.m. at the Lake Park Bandstand. There is something for everyone to enjoy during the afternoon and evening. Tickets are available at the event or any member of an organization that’s hosting a barbecue, or you can call the Chamber office, 466-2044 for additional information.
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16th annual atascadero lakeside wine festival The 16th Annual Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival will be held on Saturday, June 25, from 4-8 p.m. at Atascadero Lake Park. The event includes 80 wineries plus food by local chefs, an art show and music by the Mighty Croon Dogs. Tickets: $40 prior to the event. $45 at the gate. Tickets available online at www.AtascaderoWineFestival. com or the Main Street office at 6550 El Camino Real in Atascadero. Proceeds from the annual festival go to support local causes including the Charles Paddock Zoo.
SUDOKU SOLUTIONS Exterior & Interior Plastering
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THE BULLETIN BOARD
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live oak music festival HowaRd J. NiCHolsoN, Mai, sRa, GRi, sREs BRokER/owNER
40 Years of Comprehensive Real Estate Experience •
Cal Poly Graduate • R.E. Broker • Real Estate Appraiser • Appraisal Institute Member • CA Licensed General Building Contractor
THE aGENT YoU sHoUld HaVE woRkiNG FoR YoU Call: (805) 440-4835 e-mail: hnicholson@charter.net
With more than 16 acts that represent musical genres ranging from folk, bluegrass and gospel to Tex-Mex, boogie-woogie and jazz, the 23rd annual Live Oak Music Festival will once again showcase some of the finest musicians in the world. The event takes place Fathers’ Day weekend, Friday-Sunday, June 17-19 in the hills near Santa Barbara. Tickets for the festival are now available and 100% of festival proceeds benefit KCBX Public Radio, which serves San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. 2011 Live Oak Music Festival tickets, the up-to-date entertainment line-up, and complete festival information are available at www.liveoakfest.org or by calling 805-781-3030.
third california international choral festival
252 Higuera Street San Luis Obispo (805) 541-TIRE San Luis Obispo’s Best Kept Secret Power Carts Senior Discount (55) • 10 Play C ards • Tournaments Welcome • •
Tee Times on our website: lagunalakegolfcourse.org or call 805-781-7309
11175 Los Osos Valley Road, SLO
The 3rd California International Choral Festival & Competition (CICFC) is setting the stage for another lively and spirited competition on the beautiful central coast of California. The 3-day festival and competition, hosted by the SLO Vocal Arts Ensemble, takes place June 24, 25, 26 and features international and national choirs vying for awards and accolades. Audiences can expect to hear the best works from each choir which includes a performance that features costumes, native instruments and choreography. A panel of distinguished judges will award prizes for the general choral sound, rhythm, style and other technical areas. Audiences can vote for their favorite choir for the “People’s Choice Award.” The competitions will take place at the Christopher Cohan Performing Arts Center in SLO. Choirs that have committed to the 2011 CICFC thus far include the following: Pektoral, Kyiv, Ukraine • The University of Redlands Chapel Singers, Redlands, California • Christ the King Church Choir, Kampala, Uganda • Riverside City College Chamber Singers, Lembaga Karsa Cipta Indonesia, • Soli Deo Gloria, Fresno, California • Bangelus Choir, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo. Extensive biographies for each choir can be obtained at www. CaliforniaChoral.org. Ticket prices for all events are $20, except for the Required Pieces concert which is FREE and open to the general public. Tickets for all performances/competitions can be purchased for a 10% discount by calling 1.888.223.2787/805.756.2787 or walking up to the Performing Arts Theater box office.
new book by local author sherry shahan
Dressing Windows in San Luis Obispo for over 35 Years
alan’s draperies 544-9405
Alan “Himself” J U N E
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Local author Sherry Shahan has more than 30 books to her credit. Research has put her inside a dog sled for the first part of the 1,049-mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska, paddling a kayak in a remote fjord, and on an exposed ridge in the Sierra Nevada during a deadly lightning storm. Purple Daze is her first novel written in verse. Set in Los Angeles in 1965, Purple Daze is a story about war, feminism, riots, love, racism, rock ‘n’ roll, and friendship. Six high school students share their personal experiences through journal entries, letters, interconnected free verse and traditional poetry. Together they learn important lessons about the world, their friends, and themselves as they take part in America’s most volatile cultural revolution. The story is as relevant today as it was almost 50 years ago.
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eye oN business
Economic outlook offers mid-year check-in By Maggie Cox, Barnett Cox & Associates
T
he Mid-Year Update of the Central Coast Economic Forecast will have it all: two of the state’s leading economic experts, the high tech wizardry of the impressive new Galaxy Theatres in Atascadero, and an anticipated crowd of over 200 local business and community leaders. The Update is slated for the morning of June 9 and will offer a living example of the depth and speed of change in the local and state economy. Take the event itself. It is a direct offshoot of the Annual Economic Forecast offered in November that was for years produced by the UCSB Economic Forecast Project. Changing economic conditions prompted UCSB to retool its own focus and develop a Santa Barbara-centric study, leaving San Luis Obispo County without a program of its own. Local leaders stepped up in 2010 and created the Central Coast Economic Forecast and retained the dynamic Beacon Economics group to provide forecast service. A new, successful program unfolded without a sign of the fundamental change that prompted it. On to the Mid-Year Update. It has become readily apparent in the last few years that taking a once-a-year look at economic conditions and projections just doesn’t cut it. Sweeping changes and the need for turn-on-a-dime course corrections unfold in a blink an eye. There is a clear need for more frequent information and, let’s face it, help. These are still very challenging times.
tenacity (and she’ll tell you, the help of a terrific staff and board). Just weeks into her new position she is coproducing this major event. And if you have yet to see a movie at the Galaxy Theatres in Atascadero, the Update will provide a taste of just what’s going on in this state-of-the-art facility. The Update will be the first time the theaters are used for a non-movie event, and Galaxy staff is planning to show attendees just what a multi-purpose, business friendly, meeting and conference special location the new theatres offer. The Mid-Year update runs from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 9th. Organizers promise a fast paced, information packed morning under the direction of Cuesta College President Dr. Gil Stork, who will MC the event. Tickets are $50 and available through the Paso Robles and Atascadero Chambers of Commerce. www.pasochamber.com; www.atascaderochamber.org.
You can now read the Journal Plus online. Go to www.slojournal.com and take a look. Easier access for our readers and more exposure for our advertisers. Tell your friends and family who no longer live in the area. CURT RANKIN | THE BROOKS FAMILY | ART AT THE OCTAGON BARN | VETS MUSEUM
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The Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce and the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce have in the past each sponsored city-centric forecast events to help business and government leaders in those areas get a bead on their local markets. But local market, city-only focus is also a thing of the past. No community functions as an economic island.
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THREE GENERATIONS AT QUAGLINO FLOORING | RICHARD YACO | MICHAEL FAWCETT
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DANA NELSON | SUZANNE LEEDALE | MASTER GARDENERS | FATHER JUNIPERO SERRA
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In a show of smarts, the Paso Chamber, Atascadero Chamber and the Central Coast Economic Forecast team got together to replace the local community updates with a much larger world view—countywide—and planned to offer it in June to help bridge the gap of an annual event. Sharp thinking and great collaboration. PG&E helped out with a financial grant and local businesses and governments support with sponsorship. The result is a first rate program unfolding on June 9th. The feisty Chris Thornberg of Beacon Economics will again anchor the event. An up close and very real view of business and what’s happening in California will come from Allan Zaremberg, president and CEO of CalChamber, the state chamber of commerce. Zaremberg is much in demand but readily accepted Paso Chamber CEO Mike Gibson’s invitation. Speaking of Chamber CEOs, new Atascadero Chamber CEO Linda Hendy (formerly with the Paso Chamber) has tackled the tough job of filling the large shoes of the late Joanne Main with grace and
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COMMUNITY derfoot. Kids shriek in equal parts horror and fascination during the June beetle-mania.
JUNE Almanac
Plague: Ten years ago hordes of grasshoppers and crickets in-
fested Utah. The insects covered over 1 million acres and caused $25 million damage.
By Phyllis Benson “We all learn by experience but some of us have to go to summer school.” --- Peter De Vries
flag day is June 14. Fly Old Glory in honor of the day. Pismo beach draws classic cars and street rods this month. Dune
buggies make way for coupes, roadsters and street rods. A thousand cars cruise into town for the auto-fest.
Celebrate National Rose Month. Folks suffering from rose
some folks come for car tips. They hope elbow grease and a
fever lay low until the flowers fade.
wrench turns their junkyard jalopy into a custom cruiser for next year’s show.
Make a rose jar with dried rose petals for a fragrant history. Add
father’s day is June 19. Jobs come and go, but being a father is a
rose angels are those volunteers who gather roses for delivery to
june is for photos. Weddings, graduations and family reunions boost
June is dairy month. The Dairy Council of California reports a
eudora welty said, “A good snapshot stops a moment from run-
layers of petals from birthdays, weddings, and other events. homebound and convalescent residents.
dairy cow can produce five gallons of ice cream a day. Every kid wants to meet that cow.
National fishing week is June 4 to 12. Teach a man to fish and you can sell him fishing equipment.
lifetime career.
the picture-taking economy. ning away.”
album: No iPad can match a Kodak print. victorville hosts Huck Finn’s Jubilee. The family festival is packed with bluegrass music, dancing, and vittles.
1961: Dick Cabela sold fishing flies through classified ads. The
bluegrass musician Bill Monroe said, “Bluegrass has brought
kitchen table business grew into Cabela’s sporting goods.
this year Cabela’s celebrates its 50th anniversary. The successful
Nebraska company chartered its own bank in 2001, has stores coast to coast, and ships outdoor gear around the world.
grunion are running this month. Snag your fishing license and grab enough for dinner.
Fans say the wacky grunion night run is more fun than the fish fry.
more people together and made more friends than any music in the world. You meet people at festivals and renew acquaintances year after year.”
June is Adopt a Cat Month. Cat vet Deborah A. Edwards says “People that don’t like cats haven’t met the right one yet.”
summer begins June 21. Our cat and dogs already are competing in summer napathons.
grunion greeters are trained volunteers who monitor the grun-
softscapes: This year we replaced hostile plants like prickly holly
June bugs are beetles that hatch and take flight in spring. The pesky
hang a hammock, roll out the patio loungers, and welcome these
ion and collect information for research. Last year over 500 greeters tracked California grunion. scarabs cluster on lights, scrabble on screen doors, and crunch un-
and thorny roses with flowering shrubs. Old cats and aging dogs need soft landings. June days.
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