2019 January Colony Magazine by 13 Stars Media

JANUARY 2019

Live Blessed

COLONYMAGAZINE.COM

c ontents JANUARY 2019

FEATURES

GOING THE DISTANCE

NORTH COUNTY COMMUNITY CONTINUES TO HONOR THE MEMORY OF SISTERS BRYNN & BRITTNI FRACE

MAYOR'S VISION FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

HEATHER MORENO SHARES PLANS FOR 2019

DEPARTMENTS

COLONY TASTE 28 The Breath of Tea with Lori Foster 29 Assemble the Perfect Cheese Board SOMETHING WORTH READING 06 Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter ROUND TOWN 08 Colony Buzz 10 Santa Margarita: Our Dark Skies 11 Two in Tow: The Morro Bay Harborwalk 12 New California Laws Take Effect 14 Polar Plunge Rings in the New Year COLONY PEOPLE 16 Brynn & Brittni: Going the Distance 17 Senior Center Installs New Board for 2019

4 | colonymagazine.com

BUSINESS 21 Keep your Pet Healthy at Atascadero Pet Hospital & Emergency Center TENT CITY E.G. Lewis, Before Atascadero 24 Educational Leadership in the North County 22

by Dr. James Brescia, Ed.D

Cuesta College Promise Scholarship Sends 3,000 locals to College for Free 27 HoofBeat, Calendar, & Trail Tales

EVENTS 30 Activity & Event Guide 31 Tamale Festival returns to Atascadero LAST WORD 34 InvenTOrY Management with Sarah Pope

ON THE COVER

Atascadero, as seen from Pine Mountain

Photo & Art by Nicholas Mattson

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Visit us!! 7450 Morro Road, Atascadero

A+ Rating

DRE# 01460686

Greg Malik has been Proudly Helping people buy and sell their North County homes since 1980 A+ RATING

Jaime is a highly professional and experienced realtor. She is very knowledgeable in all aspects of the business. She has assisted me in multiple transactions in the past few years. She is efficient, well prepared and pro-active for her clients, yet low pressure, and very patient and diligent throughout the process. Jaime is a young woman of integrity and character and has respect for the community. I highly recommend her without reservation. Ann Little, Atascadero

2018 Business of the Year

Reliable Power. Performance you can trust!

805-466-2218 5025 El Camino Real www.glennsrepair.com

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 5

Something Worth Reading

ATASCADERO • SANTA MARGARITA • CRESTON

VOLUME I | NUMBER 7 “Your Hometown Magazine”

AD CONSULTANT Millie Drum

(805) 391-4566 publisher@colonymagazine.com MAIL: P.O. Box 163 Atascadero, CA 93423

AD CONSULTANT Pam Osborn AD CONSULTANT Jamie Self AD CONSULTANT Karli Twisselman

OFFICE: 1244 Pine St. Suite 204 Paso Robles, CA 93446

AD CONSULTANT Carmen Kessler

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicholas Mattson

PUBLISHER, OPERATIONS Hayley Mattson

EDITOR, LAYOUT, DESIGN Luke Phillips LEAD AD DESIGN Denise McLean

*No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form by any means without written consent from COLONY Magazine.

Find and Share ‘Your Hometown Magazine’ Online at COLONYmagazine.com Like and Follow us: Facebook: @theCOLONYmag Instagram: @COLONYmagazine Twitter: @theCOLONYmag

ART PRODUCTION Sue Dill WRITER Meagan Friberg WRITER Melissa Chavez WRITER Heather Young

EDITORIAL DEADLINE

WRITER Pat Pemberton

5th of each month preceding publication

COLUMNIST Tonya Strickland

AD ORDER DEADLINE

COLUMNIST Barbie Butz

8th of each month preceding publication

WINE EDITOR Mira Honeycutt

19,000 Printed | 15,775 Mailed

COLONY Magazine is published monthly and distributed FREE to every residence and business in Atascadero 93422, Santa Margarita 93453, and Creston 93432 zip codes. Postage paid at Paso Robles, CA 93446.

3,200 Dropped at High Traffic Locations

COLONY Magazine is also available for our visitors at wineries, Chamber of Commerce, North County Transportation Center, local motels, hotels, vacation homes, B&Bs, the airport, doctor’s offices, restaurants, and other high-traffic hotspots.

Subscriptions

Share COLONY Magazine! Annual subscriptions to COLONY Magazine, mailed to areas beyond the described distribution areas, are available for $26.99 per year (no international mailing). Subscribe online at COLONYmagazine.com.

Editorial Policy

Commentary reflects the views of the writers and does not necessarily reflect those of COLONY Magazine. COLONY Magazine is delivered free to 15,775 addresses in North San Luis Obispo County. Our costs are paid entirely by advertising revenue. Our Local Business section spotlights select advertisers, but all other stories are determined solely by our editors. Submit editorial ideas, press releases, letters and photos to editorial@colonymagazine.com.

For advertising inquiries and rates, story ideas and submission of photos, letters, press releases, etc., email publisher@COLONYmagazine.com.

6 | colonymagazine.com

“I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world. — Albert Einstein "Be the change you want to see in the world." — Mahatma Gandhi

t’s right about this time, the evening before we go to press, that I get a chance to reflect on the massive effort that goes into producing our publications by dozens of teammates. As the cold and dark surrounds us this time of year, it brings to mind how we rely on each other — for work, for play, for love, and for life. Each year it seems my wife and I come to appreciate this season on a deeper level. Our children make it that much more important to get it right — and admit when we are wrong. We live in a crazy world — it was crazy when there were just a thousand humans, and it is crazy with seven billion; it was crazy when we fashioned tools from stone and were unaware of what thunder was, and it is crazy now that we hunt for the next big thing and realize we are on a small speck spinning 1,000 miles per hour and hurtling at a mind-boggling 67,000 miles per hour around our wonderful, life-giving star we call the rising Sun. I imagine it will always be crazy. I imagine it will always offer adventure and heartache. I imagine there will always be something to learn, whether it is one set of eyes looking into the starry sky seeking answers to questions, or whether it is seven billion sets staring into screens. We are on spaceship Earth. We are going where no man or woman has gone before, and we are home, all at the same time. Looking back on 2018, I hope everyone has learned something. I imagine everyone learned a little something different. Among other things, I learned that beef jerky is a meat raisin. That was a mind-blower. I learned a few other things too, from books. I love publishing magazines, because I love connecting people to something enriching — a big thank you to those who believe in what we do, and to the advertisers who partner with us — but a book is a whole other level; literally pure imagination. I did grow up a little in 2018, and got some grey hair in my beard and more hair in my ears — that is pretty fun. I fell in love more with my wife — that was rewarding. My kids grow up faster than I thought — that is scary, wonderful, and scary. The biggest lesson for me in 2018 is that I’m only as good as the people around me. I’m truly blessed to have the friends I do, and blessed to live in this community. What will 2019 bring? What adventure awaits? What heartbreak looms? What crazy idea will revolutionize the world yet once again? We look forward to being there every step of the way. I imagine, it will not be a year for the faint of heart or poor of spirit. It will be a year to live blessed, and charge.

Please enjoy this issue of COLONY Magazine. Nicholas Mattson 805-391-4566 nic@colonymagazine.com

If thou wouldest win Immortality of Name, either do things worth the writing, or write things worth the reading. — Thomas Fuller, 1727

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Sunday, January 27, 2019

Piedras Blancas Sunday Brunch

Enjoy the most beautiful coastline in the world with us! Featuring Music by: Marty Paris & Debbie White Stein’s Catering, Silent & Live Auctions, Wine Walk

A Dancing With Our Stars Fundraiser.

10:00 AM Departure – from Sunken Gardens in Atascadero American Star Charter Bus a Lighthouse Sponsor

Call For Reservations – Donn Clickard: (805) 712-6356 www.AtascaderoGreyhoundFoundation.org Atascadero Greyhound Foundation is a Non-Proﬁt 501 (c)3 organization

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 7

| COLONY Buzz

Children's House Montessori School hosts

NY International Children’s Film Festival "Best of the Fest"

very year, the New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF), puts together “the best of the fest” from that year’s film festival. These shorts — animation, live action, documentary and experimental films — come from across the globe. On Saturday, January 12, Children’s House Montessori School in Atascadero will host two collections from the 2018 Festival — Kid Flicks One for children ages 3-7 and Kid Flicks Two for ages 8-18. The event is open to the public, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The audience will be given a ballot to score their favorites and offer their opinions. Discussion about the films will follow the screening. Tickets are $5 per person, and include a bag of popcorn and a cookie.

Kids Flicks Two With a compelling range of styles and themes, Kid Flicks Two offers clever, thought-provoking films sure to inspire audiences ages 8+ to expand their horizons. In the Grand Prize award-winner Game (USA), AJ has the drive to excel but must push through obstacles to get there. MeanKid Flicks One while, teamwork takes on different stripes when an Kid Flicks One gives a warm welcome to all bud- odd couple of bears are forced to work together in ding cinephiles with a lively international lineup of fun. the hilarious stop-motion short Poles Apart (UK). Kick off with good hygiene and great dubstep in Party For more info, call Korey Dudley Mouth (USA), then let your hair—or, er fur—down Children’s House Montessori 3025 Monterey Rd and hang loose in I Want to Live in the Zoo (Russia). 805-466-5068 And the charming If You Fall (Canada).]

805-391-4566

ads@colonymagazine.com

8 | colonymagazine.com

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Nautical Cowboy Freshens the Menu

he Dinn ems on t

w It Fresh Ne f Steaks lection o

Great Se

er M enu

Seafo of Fresh y t ie r a V |

Cioppino Mediterranean Mussels Fresh Dungeness Crab Slow-cooked Short Ribs Bison Meatloaf

Inside the Historic Carlton Hotel 6005 El Camino Real, Atascadero Take Out: Call to Order 805-461-5100 | nauticalcowboy.com nauticalcowboy@the-carlton.com

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

The new year brings new menu items to Nautical Cowboy as the restaurant continues forging ahead in its first year. With chef Jason Main behind the kitchen staff and David Weyrich helping steer the way, the voyage has just begun for the team inside the Historic Carlton Hotel restaurant. To combat the cold and rain expected in the new year, Weyrich and Main will bring in some comfort food and a supplier with quick access to fresh seafood. “The new supplier we have out of San Francisco, if I called him today, he would have 30 different kinds of oysters,” Weyrich said. “It’s unbelievable.” Along with fresh oysters, crab will be a fixture on the menu for January. “The Dungeness is going to be huge,” Weyrich said, “the fresh crab season started in November, so I’m bringing fresh Dungeness for a lot of dishes.” Nautical Cowboy will feature the Dungeness on several plates, with a variety of presentations including a Dungeness Ceasar. To get the mouth watering, lunch hours are coming soon to Nautical Cowboy, preparing for burgers, sandwiches and seafood. With focus on fresh, sustainable seafood, the new menu will feature swordfish, both Prince Edward Island and Mediterranean mussels, and a sole variety. “We’ll also be doing the comfort food winter time stuff,” Weyrich said, “like bison meatloaf and chili, and short ribs slow-cooked over six hours.” In the heart of wine country, the glass is never half-empty at Nautical Cowboy. “We are constantly revolving our wine list so people can try different things,” Weyrich said. “You are likely to see a new chardonnay by the glass every week — local, regional, and worldwide, keeping favorites and bringing in new flavors.”

colonymagazine.com | 9

| Santa Margarita

Celebrating our with Friends and Family By Simone Smith

“Although our days are getting longer, our skies are still dominated by the season’s darkness and lucky us to live here in North SLO County!”

January, the mad dash of the holiday season and end-of-the-year race to complete the “To-Do” list are in the past. We’ve now entered the full embrace of winter, a time of reflection and looking forward. Although our days are getting longer, our skies are still dominated by the season’s darkness and lucky us to live here in North SLO County! As a fan of dark skies, a fairly rare occurrence of a Super Moon combined with a total lunar eclipse (or Blood Moon) is right around the corner, Sunday, January 20-21 and it’s a great reason to gather friends and family for a little outdoor fun. Not that long ago people lived their lives based on the rising and setting of the sun, planting and harvesting by the phases of the moon and navigating by the stars. In those days, celestial events such as meteor showers or eclipses were noticed by all, a source of mystery and taken very seriously. How times have changed — through years of questioning and scientific study we now know the reasons for the events in our skies and can predict with regularity their occurrence, also, with the discovery and use of electricity to light our nights, we have become

10 | colonymagazine.com

independent of the need for and influences of natural light. Growing up in a city, I was lucky to have parents who developed my appreciation for dark skies over summers spent in the foothills of the Sierras, trips to the mountains or on camping adventures. In my kid mind I used to think that the moon was brighter because we were closer and that there were just more stars over some areas. With friends and family we spent countless hours watching the moon traverse the sky, identifying constellations, oohing and awing at meteor showers and going for walks with flashlights off. Later I learned the real reason the skies were so amazing was due to the lack of light pollution, sadly so prevalent in our modern world (see a current map of the world and the effects of lighting at lightpollutionmap. info ). However, while people in many areas have lost the ability to see all but a faint moon and the very brightest stars, here, or within a short drive, we are fortunate to still have the opportunity to enjoy nature's nighttime displays without too much interference. Our night skies are something that really make our area special and it’s fun to share the experience. According to timeanddate.com, the up-

coming Super Blood Moon of January 2021 is the first and only full lunar eclipse of the year, the next occurance won’t take place again until May 26 of 2021. What’s with the name? A full moon is called a Super Moon when it occurs on its closest approach to the earth and a Blood Moon is the name given during a total lunar eclipse causing it to appear deep red in color. Also, it’s fun to note that some call this the “Great American Lunar Eclipse” as the totality will be visible across all 50 states! If the weather is clear, the timing of this lunar event couldn’t be better here in North County. To make the most of this free natural event, bundle up, gather friends and family and head outside to an area with a dark and unobstructed view. I suggest hot chocolate and warm adult beverages with some fun evening snacks while enjoying the show. According to timeanddate.com Moonrise will be at 5:02 p.m., Partial Eclipse (moon starts turning red) at 7:33 p.m. and Total Eclipse by 8:41 p.m. Get outside and enjoy! Note: Learn more about our night skies or join in free monthly stargazing events (by Santa Margarita KOA), with Central Coast Astronomical Society at centralcoastastronomy.org.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

The Morro Bay Harborwalk Two in Tow & On The Go

A Family Adventure Column By Tonya Strickland

n a whim, my 2 and 4-year-old kiddos and I recently explored the Morro Bay Harborwalk. We were met with thrill-worthy beach swings, playful sea otters that tumbled and twirled in the calm harbor waters and boats that passed us as we ran along the expansive, slated boardwalk. Kind of magical, right? This easy and free kidventure is a great way to get outside with a few key stops while you’re there. Once you walk the Harborwalk you’ll find several lookout points, a slatted boardwalk and a Class 1 bike path away from the road. Between your start at the Embarcadero and the parking lot there are also two public restroom stops, a swing set and several lookout points with benches facing the calm waters. The humble beginnings of this stretch of

Morro Bay were all just a vision In the early 1950s, according to the City. As the story goes, a Mr. Arthur E. Coleman worked to connect Morro Rock to the Embarcadero via a road to build a waterfront park for children. Coleman Park features a fenced basketball court and six swings (including two bucket swings for the babes!). The accompanying Harborwalk, completed about a decade ago, stretches from the

Embarcadero’s quaint string of gift/seafood/ saltwater taffy shops to the iconic Morro Rock, the last in a line of volcanic earthly throwbacks reaching south toward San Luis Obispo. The Harborwalk pairs a pedestrian walkway with slatted boards and a seperate, two-lane paved bike path for guests of all kinds. Even the crazy preschool-toddler variety. In fact, our favorite stop is a tie between the Coleman Park swing set and the playful otter pups swimming just south of the Rock. As a bonus, it has lots of lookouts and views of harbor boats! And if you’ve studied up on your preschooler story books, you’ll know aaaall the boat names. And that’s it! Easy-peasy. You could end your trip there, or go explore the Morro Bay Embarcadero which we detail in a Morro Bay Day Guide over on the blog, twontow.com; OR you can call it a success and just head home (I, personally, tend to not chance it with those tiny humans in tow). Either way, it will be fun day in Morro Bay. See you there! Two In Tow & On The Go is a SLO County Mommy Blog that details pictures, tips and stories about things to do with kids on California's Central Coast. Follow the adventure at @two.n.tow on Instagram and Facebook and at twontow.com.

The Hope Chest Emporium

Old Ranch and Antique to Just-Made Local Goods We Carry a Unique Blend

(805) 550-9891

snslaundromat@gmail.com

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 11

A Look at New California Laws in Effect for 2019

By Melissa Chavez

ere is a sampling of some of the new California laws in effect, as of January 1, 2019, that could affect you.

AB 216: FREE POSTAGE FOR VOTERS California voters who vote by mail will no longer have to pay postage. The new law works to ensure voting is free for all Californians by requiring that election officials include a return envelope with prepaid postage when delivering vote-by-mail ballots. Local agencies could ask the state to reimburse them for the new costs, estimated at $5.5 million.

AB 375: CALIFORNIA CONSUMER PRIVACY ACT The new law can hold companies accountable for potential abuse of personal data. In a compromise reached between consumer privacy advocates and tech companies, the California Consumer Privacy Act was signed into law in 2018 and goes into effect in 2020. It allows consumers to know more about personal information companies collect on them and empowers them to request the data be deleted. If there is an unauthorized breach of a consumer’s non-encrypted personal information, companies can be sued for up to $750. Upon request, members of the public could ask a business to delete information they have collected on them and businesses that sell consumers' information would have to disclose the categories of information they collect. Kids under 16 must opt in to consent to the sale of their data. While consumers can sue for security breaches, the Attorney General can levy fines. AB 1871: FREE AND REDUCED-PRICE SCHOOL MEALS During his first term as California governor in 1975, Jerry Brown signed legislation requiring that all public schools provide students in grades K-12 one nutritionally-adequate free or reduced-price meal per school day. In 1992, when charter schools were authorized as public schools, they were exempt from this requirement. This law ensures that charter school students have the same access to nutrition as low-income students in public schools. This law will facilitate meals for over 340,000 eligible, low-income students who are enrolled

12 | colonymagazine.com

in California charter schools, and over 80,000 low-income children who are currently going without meals. AB 1976: LACTATION ACCOMMODATION IN THE WORKPLACE An employer shall make reasonable efforts to provide an employee with the use of a room or other location, other than a bathroom, in close proximity to the employee’s work area, for the employee to express milk in private. The room or location may include the place where the employee normally works if it otherwise meets the requirements of this section. An employer who makes a temporary lactation location available to an employee will comply with this section the following conditions are met: The employer is unable to provide a permanent lactation location because of operational, financial or space limitations; The temporary lactation location is private and free from intrusion while an employee expresses milk; The temporary lactation location is used only for lactation purposes while an employee expresses milk; The temporary lactation location otherwise meets the requirements of state law concerning lactation accommodation. AB 2013: CONCEALED CARRY FIREARMS TRAINING PROFICIENCY Under existing California Penal Code 26165, the required course of training for an applicant must be no more than 16 hours and must cover firearm safety and laws regarding the permis-

sible use of a firearm. AB 2013 would amend 26165 PC to require that the course of training be at least eight hours, but not be required to exceed 16 hours. The bill requires the training course firearm handling and shooting technique instruction, a demonstration by the applicant of shooting proficiency, safe handling of each firearm that the applicant will be licensed to carry and include live-fire exercises conducted on a firing range. The law also requires licensing authorities to establish and make available to the public the standards used when issuing licenses regarding the live-fire shooting exercises it requires, as specified. By imposing additional requirements on local licensing authorities, this bill would create a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. To date, 25 U.S. states have enacted similar legislation. SB 1046: IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE (IID) FOR DUI California residents who have been convicted of a DUI, will be required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle, even if they are convicted of their first DUI offense. An IID is a small breathalyzer that is connected to a vehicle’s ignition system. The device prevents a vehicle from starting when a driver’s breath sample contains alcohol. A convicted driver has the right to apply for a restricted license without completing their license suspension upon revocation, providing they install an IID on their vehicle, which will be in effect until January 1, 2026. SB 1448: HEALING ARTS PROBATION STATUS AND DISCLOSURE Previously, California medical providers who are disciplined for ethical violations such as gross negligence, substance abuse, inappropriate prescribing or sexual misconduct could be placed on probation and allowed to continue practicing for a period under restricted conditions. Beginning in July 2019, California physicians, surgeons, podiatrists, acupuncturists, chiropractors and osteopathic and naturopathic doctors are required to inform their prospective patients if they are on probation before they can be treated.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Schedule your routine maintenance today!

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 13

POLAR PLUNGE rings in the New Year with salty fun By Patrick Pemberton

Take a stroll to Cayucos on New Year’s Day and you might think you’ve entered what Rod Serling used to describe as another dimension. The annual Carlin Soule Memorial Polar Bear Dip is perhaps one of the weirdest events you’ll come across in San Luis Obispo County — a holiday tailor-made for surrealists, oddballs and goofs. But it’s also an unforgettable taste of what we collectively call “the SLO Life.” If you want to symbolically wash away any unpleasant memories of 2018 — or you simply can’t abandon the previous night’s New Year’s Eve celebrations — there are three (official) polar dip options for New Year’s Day. The Avila Beach dip, which begins at 11:30 a.m., is relatively informal with few rules (One you might want to remember: “No birthday suits allowed”). Typically featuring gentle little waves, slightly warmer water and a smaller (though still robust) crowd, the Avila plunge is ideal for the beginning dipper. In nearby Pismo Beach, the 3rd annual Pier to Plunge, beginning at 8:45 a.m., offers a healthy start to 2019, combining a 5K beach run with an ocean dip, as each runner heads straight to the water after crossing the finish line. The first 250 finishers will win a beanie, while the first place man and woman will win a training session with Nike-sponsored marathon runner Jordan Hasay. But the grand poo-bah of all local polar dips is clearly in Cayucos, where more than 3,000 have been known to gather for this sobering (or not) Pacific plunge. While the climax of the event is the dash into the surf, the real highlight occurs pre-dip on the beach, when a bizarre cast of characters from around the county and beyond gather in a party that’s a mash of New Year’s Eve, Halloween and Mardi Gras. The event began in 1981, when the late Carlin Soule — bored with the slow New Year’s days — invited a few friends and his employees at the Way Station to dive into the ocean. The next year, the event grew to 55 people. Sadly, Soule succumbed to cancer before the eighth annual dip. But his event continued to grow, and today it is a nippy must on any SLO County bucket list. Costumes are encouraged at all plunges, but the Cayucos dip, beginning at 10 a.m., features the most outrageous. Here you might find superheroes and aliens congregating with Elvis for a photo op that even the most sensational tab-

14 | colonymagazine.com

The real highlight occurs pre-dip on the beach, with a bizarre cast of characters from around the county. loids couldn’t have staged. Best of all, some of the best costume models sport four legs and a tail. As the noon dip nears, spectators pack the pier and wait for a second New Year’s countdown. But while the first announces the arrival of the new year, this one reminds us to have fun with it.

Our New Year’s Eve Fun Guide

So technically speaking, New Year’s is just one of 365 days on the calendar. But that doesn’t mean it has to be a day like any other because, symbolically, New Year’s Eve offers both a chance to look back on the past year, and, ah — OK, whatever. Really, it’s just an excuse to party like it’s 1999 all over again. And, frankly, there’s nothing illegal about a little legal fun, right? Luckily, there are several events planned county-wide to maximize your in-with-the-new celebrations. Here are a few recommendations:

On the Waterfront: There’s a lot to be said for staying close to home on New Year’s — especially if there are tacos involved. Beginning at 7 p.m., you can offer a toast of tacos at the Pavilion on the Lake in Atascadero. Semi-formal attire is suggested for the event, which begins at 7 p.m. and features live music by SoundCake. Tickets, which cost $50 before December 30 ($65 after), buys access to the La Parrilla taco bar and two drink tickets. Dancing is encouraged but not required for this lakeside bash, which raises money for youth sports and scholarships, the Alisa Ann Rusch

Burn Foundation and other local charities.

Think Pink: There’s a reason why celebrities

such as Paul Newman, Dolly Parton and Graham Nash loved to visit the Madonna Inn — it’s a trippy place. And the holidays here have never disappointed. Perhaps the most ostentatious place in the county — aside from Hearst Castle — The New Year’s party ($75-125) features live music, dancing, a midnight balloon drop and, of course, those great desserts.

Ship Ahoy: What can be more cozy and romantic than a nighttime dinner cruise on a 72foot yacht? The Papagallo will take off at 6 p.m. on December 31, headed for a 9 p.m. (a.k.a., midnight Eastern time) celebration. Enjoy the sights of Morro Bay from the water while also dining on amazing food. If this one sells out, look for other New Year’s cruises on the coast. (Tickets: $100) Feel the Beat: The Fremont Theatre, centerpiece of downtown SLO, has become a quaint, intimate place to see some of your favorite acts, including the English Beat (tickets $55), who will put on a New Year’s Eve show at the historic theater. Led by Dave Wakeling, the English Beat offers a mix of ska, reggae, pop and 80s nostalgia. Best known for songs such as “Save it for Later” and “I Confess,” the Beat have had a loyal following and are particularly fond of performing in San Luis Obispo.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Formerly Advanced Body & Laser Center of Paso Robles

Dr. Alex Lechtman

Rachelle Osterbauer and Brianne Simoes

Skin & Body Rejuvenation

Laser Hair Removal | Peels

Dermal Filler | Neurotoxins

Facials | Body Wraps | Massage

2120 Gold en H i l l R o a d #201 P as o R obles , C A 93446

( 805 ) 2 3 8 - 6 3 3 0

Book your appointment today!

Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture Herbs â&#x20AC;˘ Cupping Gua-sha â&#x20AC;˘ Qigong

805-481-1035 www.branchesofwellnessacupuncture.com Â Â? Â?Â? Â?Â? Â Â Â&#x20AC; Â&#x201A;Â Â&#x192;Â&#x192;Â&#x201E;Â&#x2026; Â Â? Â&#x201A; Â? Â&#x192; Â&#x201E;Â&#x2026; Â&#x2020; ( Â&#x2021; Â&#x2C6; )

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 15

GOING THE DISTANCE Life Ought be Measured by the Joy Between the Beginning and the End

s I begin writing this, I can feel the emotions rising to the surface. As the sports editor of the local newspaper, I was a part of the years of commitment, success and heartbreak and I was blessed to feel every moment and relive the greatest moments of some young people’s lives. The relationships I made during that time are precious beyond explanation, and a few lives were truly fused with my own as I cheered from behind a camera, keyboard, and social media platforms. I’ve cried alone in my car after our teams lost that final playoff game of the season, I stormed courts and fields after big wins. When the hero was raised onto the shoulders of the team, I was both the lifter and liftee. It was our story, and we shared it together, and I then shared it with our local readers and fans. Devastating losses marked the end of an era, closed the chapter on a story filled with wins, losses, blowouts and comebacks. It was the period at the end of a story that spanned an entire lifetime up to that point. But wins and losses are just a part of the story. It is the relationships, the journey, the adventure between the lines that truly capture the imagination, because the score is just a temporary mark but the adventure never ends. My first year as the sports editor, Brynn Frace was a senior at Atascadero High School. Her sister Brittni was a freshman. I began my journey as sports editor during the winter season, and the Frace sisters ran the pitch for AHS

16 | colonymagazine.com

Brittni and Brynn Frace. Contributed photo

soccer. As spring hit, I found my favorite sport to cover — distance running. I showed up at the 2013 Bearcat Relays at Paso Robles High School and as I crossed the all-weather track to the center of the mini-festival that is a track meet, I was floored by the scene of an Arroyo Grande runner cheering as runners from Templeton, Atascadero, and Paso Robles ran by her. There was a sense of joy for the run that was now the pervading rhythm. Athletes were no longer competing with each other, but competing with their own personal best and using each other to push themselves further along. That spirit was evident between Brynn and Brittni Frace, that they pushed one another to be better in a way that inspired admiration. Whether it was better goofy, or better friendly, or better on the track or cross country course.

By Nicholas Mattson

I can only imagine the joyful songs they sang as they drove back together to Chico State for the spring semester after winter break. They never made it to Chico, but they never really left us either. Like flowers that spring up after winter, the clouds of sorrow break for beams of light and joy. Now a year after the sisters left this Earth, their spirit lives on. Their parents, Warren and Shari Frace, continue their service to our community and honor their daughter’s memories. Warren serves as the Community Development Director for the City of Paso Robles, and Shari serves as support staff for Atascadero Fine Arts Academy. In their spare time, they have brought honor to their girls with a 10K & Fun Run-Walk around the idyllic Santa Margarita Lake. As related from Warren and Shari time and again as they process the loss and celebrate the lives of Brynn and Brittni, instead of dwelling on the loss, they make the best of what the girls gave to the world. The spirit of Brynn and Brittni remains a living force for their “love of nature, the outdoors and respect for the earth and one another.” The marathon of life calls to us to reach inside and find something that keeps us running toward our own finish line, and those around us who love us also challenge us, and push us to choose who it is we will be each day as we go the distance. To get a little inspiration, join Run 4 Bitti and Brynn as a walker or a runner, or just as a fan at the finish line cheering on those who make it across. For more info on the upcoming Run 4 Bitti and Brynn 10K and Fun Run-Walk, go to run4bittiandbrynn.org.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Senior Center has resources for those 50 and older By Heather Young

he Atascadero Senior Center has a variety of activities for seniors 50 years of age and older. For $10 per year, members get access to the center and all its activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In this community we find that a lot of people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know we exist,â&#x20AC;? said Carey Rogers, who has been installed for her second year as president. In addition to being a place for seniors to gather and attend activities, the center also loans out wheelchairs, walkers, shower seats and crutches. Those items arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t limited to seniors, but to anyone who is need of them. Rogers said there is no cost to borrow the items. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have so much surplus,â&#x20AC;? said Gloria Lautt, who was newly installed as treasurer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the things we find is the most appreciated,â&#x20AC;? Rogers added.

A few years ago, the senior center had no members and few activities, so a new group of volunteers stepped up and reinvigorated the nonprofit center. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have something going on every day,â&#x20AC;? Rogers said. Lautt said there are two types of groups that use the building. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One type is someone who wants to come in and give classes that is open to everyone that would be sponsored by the senior center,â&#x20AC;? Lautt said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And the other type is a group that would like to use the senior center, but it would be a nominal fee to cover cleaning and utilities.â&#x20AC;? The outside groups donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be all seniors, she added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great service to the community to offer facilities at such a low price,â&#x20AC;? Lautt said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the evening, parking is no issue,â&#x20AC;? Rogers added. Another important part of the

senior center is that it is the home of Meals That Connect, which provides lunch to homebound seniors 60 years and older. In addition to delivering meals Monday through Friday, meals are also served in the dining room on-site for any senior. Meals are $2.75 per meal, but Rogers said that if someone is not able to pay for lunch, they are still able to have the meal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[The dining room] was full the other day,â&#x20AC;? Rogers said. Meals That Connect are in need of volunteer drivers to deliver meals. Volunteers receive a free meal the days that they deliver. Any local senior is eligible to become a member at any time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If anyone is interested in joining the senior center, they might want to attend a board meeting,â&#x20AC;? Lautt said.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anybody is welcome to come,â&#x20AC;? Rogers added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We would like for more people to come to more of our membership meetings.â&#x20AC;? The Atascadero Senior Center was formed and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in 1974. The nonprofit purchased its building at 5905 East Mall, across the street from Sunken Gardens in 1977. The center is staffed with a volunteer receptionist Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., giving members access to free WiFi, computers, books, puzzles, games and loaning of medical equipment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[At that time, the center] had over 100 members and 12 people on the board,â&#x20AC;? Rogers said Today, the nonprofit has 25 member and four board members. For more information, call 805-466-4674.

2019 OFFICERS

President: Carey Rogers Treasurer: Gloria Lautt

Vice-President: Pat Kuster Secretary: Norma Holzer

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Notes: All activities are free to members

Tai Chi: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Discussion Group: Tuesday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Qi Gong: Thursday from 10:15 to 11:30 a.m.

Senior center board and membership meeting: Fourth Tuesday of the month from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. (all local seniors are invited to attend, even if they are not members) Classic movie matinee: Friday at 12:30 p.m. (this includes free popcorn)

Â Â?Â Â? Â?Â? Â? Â? Â Â? Â?Â

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON FELLOWSHIP TRAINED IN SPORTS MEDICINE

Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, Fractures, Joint Pain and General Orthopedics

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

Â Â&#x20AC; Â&#x201A; Â Â&#x192; Â? Â&#x201A; Â&#x201A; Â&#x192;

colonymagazine.com | 17

Heather Moreno

Atascadero mayor shares vision for 2019

“A

tascadero is a beautiful and authentic city of outdoor recreation, culinary adventures and welcoming hospitality. It’s a safe place where the arts and history thrive and the diversity of experience, generosity of spirit, and small-town ambiance are here to be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike.” This is the ten-year vision that in 2014, the City Council, business community and residents came together to create. Four years in, we’ve made much progress as a community. Downtown has more restaurants and shops, with minimal vacancies. I was excited to head up the taskforce that brought BridgeWork to Atascadero, the first co-working space in North SLO County. The La Plaza project and Bridgewalk Hotel are in the works which, when completed, will bring tremendous energy to neighboring businesses and encourage further investment in

18 | colonymagazine.com

By Atascadero Mayor Heather Moreno

our town. The City now hosts several large events, where thousands of residents and visitors experience our unique offerings. And what outdoor enthusiast doesn’t love the Three Bridges Trail? While we are on the road to that vision, there is still more to do. During strategic planning in early 2019, the Council along with City staff, the business sector and residents will come together as we set priorities and determine how to reach our vision. And with a new Council, it’s possible the vision may slightly shift. Over a day and a half, we will look at our strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and challenges, and decide on our key priorities for moving Atascadero forward. It’s an opportunity for the community (that means all of us!) to provide input as we set our compass for the coming two years. My goal with strategic planning is to develop a small number of key

priorities on which we can focus and to which we can hold ourselves, and each other, accountable. The risk any organization faces is setting too many priorities, thereby outstripping its capacity. To quote our former Community Development Director, “we can do anything, we just can’t do everything.”— certainly not all at the same time. Atascadero is often referred to as a bedroom community but if we want to thrive that must change. We literally cannot afford it when confronted with increasing state and healthcare costs, necessary infrastructure improvements and a growing population in need of services. Economic development is not simply about improving business for business’ sake or to have a few more shops. The things that we want as a community cost money. Growing our local economy is one way we pay for those things. That does not mean we strive to be a “little Paso.” We are uniquely Atascadero! What it does mean is

that we must create a diverse local economy, one where the number of jobs — especially head of household jobs — is on par with our housing supply. People tend to shop, eat and use services in close proximity to where they work. The more jobs we attract to Atascadero, the more successful our retail and restaurant sector, which encourages even more businesses to locate here. More jobs mean less people on the freeway. More jobs mean a better quality of life for our residents. Downtown traffic calming has the opportunity to increase safety and provide a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere to draw more people into our businesses. As we assess the El Camino corridor to identify opportunities for development, we can work with landowners to come together to optimize use of their parcels. We must learn to better market the many assets of our city to attract the businesses we need and want. Like other cities throughout

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

farron elizabeth Heather Moreno, second from right, is sworn-in for her term as mayor.

California, Atascadero faces the challenges of homelessness, transients and mental health issues, and Atascadero has numerous groups working to meet these needs. Loaves & Fishes offers sustenance to the food-insecure individuals in our community, while the El Camino Homeless Organization operates a 50-bed shelter along with case workers to help people get back on their feet. It’s exciting to see the expanded services ECHO expects to provide that have the potential to offer better support to their clients and resolve some of the " neighborhood challenges. Transitions-Mental Health Association has a good presence in the North County and operates the 60 NOW program that provides shelter and wrap-around services to 60 of the most vulnerable in our county. We know drug and alcohol abuse can often lead to homelessness, and North County Connection is very active in Atascadero, providing drug and alcohol coun-

seling services. The City continues to be involved with these and other organizations that provide in-patient care, sober living and other support services. We will continue to participate in these types of partnerships and at the department level — public works, community development, police and fire — to address these issues at a community-wide level. We are also cognizant that enforcement is needed and we will continue to take appropriate measures when required. We are committed to working with local business owners and residents about their concerns and to addressing problems in the most beneficial manner for all parties involved. My favorite thing about Atascadero is the people. We have a community that pulls together to do important work and I will continue to champion that spirit and forge the partnerships that make things happen. Atascadero is not an “I” community, it’s a “we” community, and I’m honored to serve as your mayor.

farronelizabeth.com 5955 Entrada Ave. Atascadero, CA 93422 (805) 464-7977

Clothing & Gifts for Children & the People who Love Them. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm

805.464.2922 5945 Entrada Avenue Atascadero, CA 93422 Clothing & Accessories for Women, Girls, Boys, Baby & Maternity Home Accents • Toys • Books • Gifts anna & mom offers something for everyone

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 19

MAINTAIN GOOD HEALTH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS WITH

ATASCADERO PET HOSPITAL & EMERGENCY CENTER Open 24/7, pets can experience the highest level of veterinary medicine the Central Coast has to offer.

By Cassandra Frey

here do you go when a pet emergency strikes in the middle of the night? Atascadero is lucky to be home to just the place to take care of our most beloved family members — our pets. With 31 years of service, the Atascadero Pet Hospital & Emergency Center is one of the top locations on the Central Coast to receive caring and prompt service during stressful situations, and the usual, everyday veterinary care. The hospital is always available to test, diagnose and treat a wide range of ailments and animals. In 1987 Robert Schechter and his family settled in Atascadero. Two years later "Doctor Bob" started a veterinary wellness practice in an old dairy barn on Rocky Canyon Road. During the mid-90s, the Schechter family purchased a 5,000 square-foot building to allow the veterinary practice to grow, and in 2002, the Atascadero Pet Hospital became a 24-hour emergency center. The hospital is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Day or night, the professional medical staff is ready to take on the direst of situations. Doctor Aaron Schechter and Doctor Ofer Cherbinsky became the new practice owners in 2007. Animals can become sick with diseases that humans are affected with. Dr. Cherbinsky shared, “Dogs and cats are mammals, just like humans and they get some of the same diseases as us such as diabetes, thyroid issues, and cancer. Many people are surprised at this.” The best way to know if your animal is in good health is with regular checkups and a vet who knows their history. Dr. Schechter shared, “The most important thing for pet owners to know is that wellness and preventive care with regular check-ups are essential to keeping your pet happy, healthy

20 | colonymagazine.com

Owners Dr. Ofer Cherbinsky and Dr. Aaron Schechter.

and thriving.” He continued, “As a teaching and learning hospital, we encourage questions, participation, and hands-on training. Our diverse staff offers a unique set of opinions and a wide range of knowledge. This collaborative environment is very rewarding for everyone involved and offers our clients the best possible medical care on the Central Coast.” Atascadero Pet Hospital & Emergency Center has a history of saving many lives with 31 years in the business and their dedication to the community shows. “I enjoy meeting new people and developing the client/patient relationship,” Dr. Schechter said. “I enjoy treating animals and helping them live longer healthier lives. We love the small town feel here and Atascadero shows a real sense of community. Our clients are like family to us.” Basic services such as wellness checks, vaccines, dental and diagnostics help to treat many four-legged friends. The facility also offers premier 24-hour emergency pet care, which includes the use of monitors, IV pumps, oxygen, ventilators, ECG w/external pacing, defibrillation, pharmacy, laboratory, blood transfusions, plasma transfusions, and rattlesnake antivenom. From bone surgeries to things like acupuncture and Eastern medicine, they cover it all. Some of the more advanced services such as CT scans and advanced imagery are available all night, even on holidays!

Rochelle Barnett Sutherland shared her experience at Atascadero Pet Hospital & Emergency Center, saying "This is the most compassionate and caring place a pet and their person could ever ask for. Doctor Aaron Schecter is such an amazing person. He is also a top-notch surgeon! The vets at this hospital are wonderful, loving people. Any parent would be very lucky to have any one of them if they needed care. The hospital is very well kept and extremely clean. The entire staff is so friendly and helpful. They have state-of-theart equipment and we are confident they can handle any pets’ needs for emergencies. The prices for their services are very fair and very reasonable compared to other places we have been. They are as good as it gets for any pet emergency, day or night, seven days. We have been there on a Sunday night at 11 p.m. for a life-saving emergency and we were treated so good and the life of our precious lab was saved after being poisoned at 11 years old. She went on to live another three and a half years. We highly recommend this hospital. The staff are very thorough and explain the treatment options precisely and clearly, making sure to take the time and give extra attention to all the little details. The staff are well-trained, with a wonderful bedside manner and can help walk you through everything during difficult situations or end-of-life care.” Atascadero Pet Hospital and Emergency & Emergency Center is available for appointments from 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The staff is here for any pet emergency-24 hours per day, 7 days a week. In January, the hospital encourages everyone to get their pet’s annual wellness exams and are offering a discount on the exam fee. For more information, call (805)466-3880 or visit the website at apetcenter.com. Atascadero Pet Hospital is located at 9575 El Camino Real Atascadero, CA 93422.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Clean Up Your Web Presence and Boost Your SEO with Our One-Click Tool!

805-391-4566 ads@colonymagazine.com

Did We Get Your Attention? Let Us Help You Get Some Attention!

For $79, correct your business information across the web, score higher on search engines, attract more clients

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 21

The Birth of Atascadero

REFLECTING ON THE LIFE OF

Edward Gardner 'E.G.' Lewis By The Atascadero Historical Society

PART 1: BEFORE ATASCADERO

he words inscribed over the main entrance of Atascadero's Administration Building, "Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows" represent the pervading spirit of the founder of Atascadero: Edward G. Lewis, a man truly endowed with unlimited imagination, boundless energy, and unwavering optimism. Born March 4, 1869, he was reared and educated in the older cities of the eastern states with their narrow, crooked streets leading to beautiful homes in one part of the city, slums in another and factories with smoking chimneys about. This experience would later stoke his imagination and vision for communities with the loveliness and healthfulness of the country, as well as the conveniences and advantages of the city. In 1890, he married Mabel G. Wellington and in 1898 they moved to St. Louis, Mo. He sold his successful business interests and turned his attention to the publishing business. In 1899, he acquired the Winner magazine, which had an existing circulation of 376,000, but was losing money due to the high cost of printing. There were no presses with enough capacity in St. Louis to print the magazine at a low enough cost. With skillful acquisitions and partnerships, he resolved the cost issues. Having secured excess

22 | colonymagazine.com

paper and press capacity, he then purchased the Woman’s Farm Journal in 1901 for $1,000 and increased its circulation to 600,000. He started the Woman’s Magazine and in four years it had reached a monthly circulation of 1.6 million, the largest circulation of any periodical in the

U.S. Other profitable periodicals followed and he established The Lewis Publishing Company in 1903 with $1.2 million in capital, a veritable fortune in those days. He quickly became the largest publisher of periodicals in the country with a circulation of four million per issue. Due to his focus on women’s issues and support for the suffrage movement, Lewis had tapped into a growing base for his publications and amassed the wealth that came with it. Not being satisfied with only his growing publishing empire, E.G would start a new endeavor, creating cities. This began with the purchase of just 85 acres of pastureland a few miles west and outside the city limits of St. Louis. This property was very close to the site of the upcoming 1904 World’s Fair. His vision for this property was ultimately the design and building of the model community he called University City. His plans included a central business district, beautiful residential neighborhoods and ornate civic buildings. To promote University City during the World’s Fair, E.G. created a “tent city” called Camp Lewis which he used not only to house potential buyers, but also subscribers and attendees at the World’s Fair. There were 200 cozy sleeping tents, plus separate tents for recreation and dining, a hospital, a barbershop, etc., and in addition there was scheduled bus service to and from the fair. Over the course of its life, Camp Lewis hosted over 80,000 subscribers to his magazines along with potential buyers.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

University City was a great success and E.G. was elected mayor twice. In 1908, the Lewis Publishing Company hosted fellow publisher, William Randolph Hearst and his wife Millicent who toured the publishing company headquarters at the Woman’s Magazine building, now city hall of University City. With the power and nationwide influence of his journals and newspaper as a platform, he vigorously advocated three measures then considered extremely advanced and visionary: women’s suffrage, a postal bank and parcels post. In 1905, E.G. organized the Peoples Bank in University City. It was the first bank by mail in America. He later recounted how subscribers would pay in postage stamps, gold and other items in the absence of banking services. It was brilliant, an immediate success with the public, but too successful. It took profit away

from several of the existing railway express companies throughout the U.S. that offered similar services. The former president of one of these companies was then a U.S. senator. Using his influence, the senator was able to get a deputy postmaster general appointed whose sole responsibilities seemed to be to shut down E.G. and his bank. The bank died in 1906 after two consecutive receiverships. It was the first and last time that postal inspectors formally acted as bank examiners. Depositors were refunded in full and the stockholders received 87 cents on the dollar. The government's attack on E.G. did not end there: in all, fourteen indictments were brought by the postmaster and the battle raged on for seven years. Cases were thrown out or no verdict of guilt was returned. Ever the optimist, in December 1907 Lewis organized several

of his publications into a league and established the American Woman’s League. The League, organized by state, sold the publications and received the commissions. Approximately 700 Chapters were formed across the country. In 1911, the League morphed into an organization focusing on women’s rights. The American Woman’s Republic was a fee-based membership organization that helped women learn about government and politics in preparation for the right to vote. At their first convention in 1912, with over 1,000 delegates attending, they ratified the Declaration of Equal Rights and adopted the Constitution. With University City as the capital, they formed a Senate, House of Representatives and Supreme Court, organizing regions in each state. E.G. Lewis retained the counsel of Belva Lockwood, who acted as Attorney General, to help guide

the organization. She was the first woman to run for president as the candidate of a recognized party and the first woman attorney to plead cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. Incidentally, the community of Lockwood in Monterey County was named after her. Eventually, Atascadero was established in the name of the American Woman’s Republic. Although E.G. Lewis was ultimately exonerated of any crimes, the seven-year battle to save his name broke his health and forced him into bankruptcy in 1911. He decided not to seek a third term as University City Mayor. Instead, he and Mabel turned their attention to the West, toward a dream of a new master planned community centered on the automobile and a healthful lifestyle in a “valley of peace” and a colony for the American Woman’s Republic. Next time: E.G. Lewis – The Atascadero Period.

E85 Diesel

Propane ® Car Wash

Hwy 41 & 101 Exit 219

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

Atascadero, CA 93422 colonymagazine.com | 23

| Education

Educational Leadership in the North County James J. Brescia Ed.D

“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.”

SLO County Office of Education Superintendent

ver the past 20 years, I have reviewed and conducted research related to high-performing organizations. In each of these high-performing organizations (mainly educational entities), the leadership consisted of individuals who embodied “servant leadership” in their words and actions. Charism, a commanding presence, visionary goals, and elite pedigrees are admirable, but these characteristics are not the common factor in successful organizations. Servant leaders are those who promote, as Rotary International does, “service above self.” These successful leaders are people-centric, value service to others and consider their work stewardship or

- John F. Kennedy

a vocation. Servant leaders are passionate, humble, detail-oriented types who have a longer-than-average tenure in organizations. Many of these leaders remember what it is like to work on the line, in the trenches, or the classroom. Four North County servant leaders joined me in facilitating a “Leadership North County” workshop on December 7, 2018, in Atascadero. This Chamber of Commerce-sponsored series of workshops addresses topical community issues designed to cultivate, inspire, connect, and empower an effective community of leaders. The Atascadero Economic Foundation, Atascadero and Paso Robles Chambers of Commerce,

and other community-minded organizations support Leadership North County. December’s workshop focused on youth and education. Servant leadership begins early in the education system and this workshop explored our local school system from many different angles. Participants joined interactive discussions, educational facility tours and were able to ask organizational leadership questions of North County superintendents, the Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundation, the Paso Robles Culinary Academy, Cuesta College Dean Dr. Maria Escobedo and Cuesta College President/Superintendent Dr. Jill Stearns.

During the keynote on leadership, I referenced seven orchestral conductors to illustrate “servant leadership.” The leaders highlighted believe that every employee should be treated with respect, have access to meaningful work and be encouraged to achieve excellence. Servant leaders live the “golden rule” and understand that they serve not only the organization but the stakeholder of the organization. It is an honor to serve as your county superintendent of schools.

“A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus, but a molder of consensus.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Future Careers. Locally Grown. "It's been really great learning new things, and having a teacher who is willing to bring us opportunities like this." Grace - Student, Templeton High School www.SLOPartners.org

Watch the Video @San Luis Obispo County Ofﬁce of Education YouTube 24 | colonymagazine.com

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Education |

Promise provides free college for 3,000 local residents

or many, the prospect of paying for college can seem impossible. But for local high school graduates, that notion couldn’t be further from the truth. Five years ago, Cuesta College debuted its Promise Scholarship. The program allows any recent graduate of a San Luis Obispo County high school an opportunity to attend college without fees for the first year. Thanks to an $8 million endowment by the Charles and Leeta Dovica Family Trust, nearly 3,000 SLO County students have attended Cuesta through the scholarship. In 2016, then-Cuesta Superintendent/President Dr. Gil Stork and others announced a fundraising goal of nearly $10 million to support a second year of fee-free enrollment. In response, the community delivered nearly $3 million in private donations to the Cuesta College Foundation. In October of 2017, Governor Jerry Brown also signed into law AB19, which waived fees for students enrolled with 12 or more semester units in their first year. “This is the second year that the Cuesta Promise will provide our students the opportunity to concentrate on their education rather than concerning themselves on how they will pay for it,” said Dr. Maria Escobedo, Dean of the North County Campus and South County Center. To be eligible for the Promise a second year, students must earn over 50 percent of their units attempted and sustain a 2.00 grade point average or higher in their first year. Among those participating in the second year of the Promise is freshman Anna Betts, who plans to transfer to the University of California, Santa Cruz and then pursue a career in economics.

By Melissa Chavez

PROMISE SCHOLARSHIP BY THE NUMBERS Local High School Grad Attendance Rate: 2013 = 25 percent *2017 = ^36 percent *2018 data not available 90 percent = Local students attending Cuesta after graduating, attend as Promise students

High School Classes of 2018 — 925 Promise students:

176 Paso Robles HS 145 Arroyo Grande HS 133 Atascadero HS 97 Morro Bay HS 91 San Luis Obispo HS 73 Templeton HS 26 Coast Union HS

“I chose Cuesta because the Promise saves an incredible amount of money and allows me to stay close to my family while I complete my general education. But community colleges are awesome — the instructors are very approachable and class sizes are way smaller than at a university and I like that,” Anna said. Anna’s mother, Aimee La Rue, couldn’t agree more about her daughter’s decision. “Because of the two-year Cuesta Promise, a local family can save an average of $50,000 for those two years. It’s remarkable if you think about it. It is absolutely the most sound financial option.” The Cuesta Promise application for academic year 2019-20 is open through August 1, 2019. Visit cuesta.edu/admissionsaid/cuestapromise/ index for more info.

BigJohnInsurance.com

(805) 466-7744

Home • Auto • Life • Bank • Financial Services January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 25

March 21, 22, 23, 2019 - Pavilion on the Lake - 5:30 pm

Proceeds Beneﬁt 7 Community NonAtascadero Library Atascadero AAUW Atascadero Kiwanis

Dinner Show Tickets Go on Sale January 14, 2019 Event is Produced by Jeannie Malik and Friends of the Atascadero Library

2019 Theme “Atascadero Time Machine: Back to the 80’s!” Directed By Molly Comin

Directed MollySPONSORS Comin 2019 DWOS by EVENT Diamond Sponsor $10,000 Opolo Vineyards Vicky Morse Julie C Fallon MD Emerald Sponsor $3,500 Donna O'Shaughnessy Gold+ Sponsors $2500 Colony Magazine Howard Products, Inc. PG&E

Gold Sponsors $2,000 Rabobank Ron & Liz Helgerson So Cal Gas Atascadero News Bill Gaines Audio Atascadero 76-Don Giessinger

Silver Sponsors $1,000 Greg Malik Real Estate Bill & Grenda Ernst Grigger & Alice Jones Eric J. Gobler, Civil Engineering Richard & Marguerite Pulley Idler's Home LUBE-N-GO K.Jons Diamonds & Gems David Burt & Virginia Severa Leon & Sandy Fairbanks American Riviera Bank El Camino Veterinary Hospital County Supervisor Debbie Arnold Rob Garcia Wealth Management

DJ Joy Bonner Highlight Media The Real Estate Book Central Coast Brewing Cheryl Strahl Photography Awakening Ways Spiritual Community Bronze Sponsors $500 Kathy Peterson Waste Management Atascadero Rotary Club Farmers Insurance-Sue Hubbard Andee Allen, Real Estate Services Charles Bourbeau-City Council Member

2019 Community Star Dancers, Professional Choreographers and Director Molly Comin

Hoofbeat |

By Bec Braitling

T em pleton Farms

Templeton Farms is pleased to announce that as of January, Allison Mathy will be joining the Templeton Farms team as a Dressage Trainer. Allison, of Lyric Dressage, is a USDF Gold Medalist that offers training of horse and rider through Grand Prix. Her program is goal oriented with students regularly working toward competitions and achieving their USDF Medals. Allison joins a fantastic group of trainers of multiple disciplines that are currently located at Templeton Farms. Welcome to the Central Coast Allison! Check out www. templetonfarms.com for information on this fantastic facility.

Z ee Varian and V6 R anch

Zera Varian was born into a family with a deep rooted passion for ranch life and the magnificent horses and cattle that come along with it. Zera, better known as Zee, spent her early years on her family’s ranch in Culver City eventually progressing to competing show horses herself. She was initially showing jumpers until she happened upon the stock horse classes at a local show and was inspired by riders such as Jimmy Williams and Barbara Worth. This was the instant Zee knew that training and showing the reined cow horse was what she wanted to do, and she found that she was very, very good at it. Lifetime earnings include a multitude of belt buckles, 13 saddles, 3 horse trailers, and well over

$100,000 in cash prizes. One of her proudest accomplishments was when she became the first woman to ever win the 1969 Reined Cow Horse Open Bridle Championship. Throughout her career Zee has won multiple awards, championships and reserve championships almost exclusively on horses she raised, trained, and owned. The V6 Ranch in Parkfield was purchased in 1961 by Zee and her husband Jack. They run approximately 1,500 head of stocker cattle each year, purchasing them in fall and selling them in the spring. Zee and Jack have recently begun raising grass-fed beef cattle as well. Currently they raise 25-30 head of grass fed beef cattle a year and plan on increasing those numbers annually. The V6 Ranch got its name when the last of their 4 children was born, totalling 6 Varians, or ‘V6’. Zera and Jack are incredibly proud of the ranch they have built. In 2001 they made the decision to create a Conservation Easement on the property to ensure the ranch cannot be divided or developed. In partnership with the California Rangeland Trust the 17,000 acre V6 Ranch is now dedicated rangeland providing open space not only for the cattle to thrive but also ensuring the land remains home to all animals large and small. Inspired by the movie ‘City Slickers’, four times a year (3 times in the Spring and once in the Fall) Zee and her family welcome strangers onto their family ranch. They venture out across the countryside on some of their 25 head of horses, enjoying the sights, smells, tastes and sounds of the sprawling ranch. They’ve been doing this for almost 26 years now, and Zee

participants have the opportunity to participate in. Zee is a cowgirl through and through, and we are beyond lucky she and her family share her love of the land and the animals on it with us all.

Toys For Tots Trail R ide W ra p U p

Zee and Jack Varian

still enjoys sharing her vast family ranch. Cowboy Academies are also available three times a year where guests are able to experience the real western lifestyle, sometimes for the first time. Cutting, sorting, roping, branding, barrel racing, and pole bending are all skills event

J a n u a ry C a l e n d a r Jan 5-6 Central Coast Polo Club, Cal Poly Women vs. USC 2320 Clark Valley Rd, Los Osos Jan 5-6 Salinas Valley Fair Winter Barrel Race, 625 Division St, King City Jan 11- 12 Tanya Vik Dressage Clinic at Woodmyst Farms in Gilroy, contact Julia Mitchell. julia@gmail.com

The Atascadero Horseman’s Club held the annual ‘Toys for Tots Ride’ on Sunday November 18th. The club has sponsored this event for the past 45 years. This event would not be possible without the participation of dedicated club members and riders from our local equine community. The spirit of giving provided 82 gifts for needy children and cash donations of $215 for the Atascadero Loaves and Fishes food pantry. A huge ‘thank you’ goes out to the amazing club members who volunteered their time and to all who enjoyed the ride. Jan 13 Twin Rivers 12th Annual Combined Test & Jumper Schooling Show, 8715 N River Rd Paso Robles. Kick off the year at the first schooling show of the season. Visit www.twinrivershorse park.com for entry premium and more information Jan 26- 27 LA Winter Dressage, Burbank, visit cornerstone dressage.com

In the Santa Cruz area there is Wilder Ranch (831-423-9703). There are over 50 miles of multi-use trails (equestrians, hikers & mountain bikers). Trails are both fire roads & single track through meadows & redwoods. The horse camp is on the inland or east side of Hwy. 1 (not the main park entrance). There is a locked gate so call for the combination. There are approximately 5 horse corrals with spigots for water (bring hoses) bring a port-a-potty. No fires & no dogs. Access to trails is directly out of camp. Reservations are typically not necessary, but call first. Day use also allowed. Check out the California State Parks website for additional information and directions. www.parks.ca.gov Brought to you by Whitehorse Tack 2805 Black Oak Drive, Paso Robles • whitehorsetack.com

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

colonymagazine.com | 27

The BREATH of TEA

s you lean in and take those first deep breaths, your senses awaken to the energy and charm of that satisfying cup of tea. Steeped in tradition and infused with complexity, tea continues to be the most widely consumed beverage in the world today. The most famous tea-producing regions today are China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Africa, Indonesia and Taiwan. Fascinating links between modern tea drinking and ancient China weave back through history to 2737 BC. Camellia sinensis, an evergreen plant with delicate, creamy white flowers and sturdy, green leaves is responsible for the many varieties of tea. The character, color and flavor of each are determined by a long list of variable factors including location of plantation, altitude, climate, soil, cultivation methods and how the leaf is processed. Six different categories of tea include white, yellow, green, oolong, black and puerh (pronounced pooh-air), each having their own specific qualities. Herbal teas, or tisanes, are not actually “tea” and are not made from the camellia sinensis plant. They consist of other roots, flowers, leaves and seeds. WHITE TEA, named after the tiny white hairs that cover the buds, are plucked, dried in the sun and are the least-processed of all teas. They are champagne-colored teas with a soft, delicate flavor. YELLOW TEAS are among China’s rarest teas, named after the yellow hue from the special type of paper the tea was wrapped in. GREEN TEA (unoxidized) involves a short period of withering the leaves, steaming or pan-firing to stop the oxidation and a series of rollings and firing to shape and dry the leaf. It

28 | colonymagazine.com

By Lori Foster of Spice of Life

LORI FOSTER is a spice purveyor and owns Spice of Life in downtown Paso Robles. Exploring spices, herbs and teas has been a long time passion. Please feel free to e-mail her (lifeofspice@charter.net) and let her know if there is a particular spice you would like to her to feature.

provides a clean, grassy cup of golden infusion. OOLONG TEA (partially oxidized) are pale, amber-colored teas with soft, fruity characteristics. Taiwan is best known for their exquisite Oolongs. BLACK TEA (fully oxidized leaves) delivers a full-bodied, copper-colored infusion. The leaves are put through a special rolling machine that presses and twists them, breaking down the cells and releasing natural juices and chemicals that will advance the oxidation process. PUERH TEA, exclusively in China for centuries, is an aged, fermented black tea with an earthy, mature character, rich and woody. Most Puerh yield 5-8 infusions. Puerh tea has the unique quality of improving with age. "Tea comforts the spirit, banishes passivity, lightens the body, and adds sparkle to the eyes." Shen Nong, Medicinal Herbs.

Brewing styles and equipment vary. The general technique to brew a satisfying cup of tea is to bring fresh, clean water to a boil, measure the desired amount of tea (1-2 tsp. per cup) and add to an infuser. Pour water over the leaves and steep. A few brewing tips to keep in mind: Never pour boiling water over green tea (they prefer cooler water, 165-185 degrees) and only steep 1-2 minutes. Typically, the darker the tea the more robust flavor and greater amount of caffeine. Black, puerh, and oolong teas can steep 3-5 minutes and can withstand the hotter temperatures. There are important differences in the way our body absorbs caffeine in coffee and caffeine in tea. Coffee caffeine goes instantly into our circulatory system, jolting us into wakefulness, causing our heart to beat faster and blood to pump

more vigorously. Caffeine in tea is released much more slowly and takes 15-20 minutes to absorb. It goes gently into our central nervous system, helps heighten our senses and gives greater mental alertness. The effects of tea caffeine tapers off slower over a longer period of time than coffee caffeine. Ever since Shen Nong discovered the stimulating and detoxifying properties of tea some 4,000 years ago, people have been interested in its medicinal properties. Although some of the health properties of tea were recognized by Chinese medicine a very long time ago, it is only recently that modern science has confirmed these benefits. It is sparking a lot of interest, particularly in the areas of cancer prevention and the treatment of degenerative and cardiovascular disease. SHEN NONG, MEDICINAL HERBS Recent studies around the world have given evidence that tea has tangible health benefits. Tea contributes to longevity, stimulating heart function, strengthening the immune system and preventing cell mutations. Consuming tea on a daily basis may help increase concentration, mental sharpness, aid digestion, eliminate fatigue and many other everyday ailments. Because of the different processing methods, each tea has different benefits. Green teas are the highest in antioxidants and can help protect against certain age-related diseases. Puerh and Oolong are helpful in reducing blood cholesterol and weight loss while black tea is more effective as a physical stimulant. As we become more familiar and appreciate the individual nuances of tea, the intimate relationship between us and nature grows. The art of tea releases its beauty in every harmonious cup.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

Assembling the Perfect Cheese Board

By Mira Honeycutt

he holiday season is over and some of us are heading to the gym or simply snuggling up in the cold of January. We are ready to cradle bowls of hearty stews or create a simple cheese platter served with crusty baguette and a cup of hot tomato bisque. And, yes, there is all that cheese left over from holiday entertaining. The nutty, buttery, earthy tastes of assorted cheeses sound comforting when sitting by a cozy fireplace, so I reached out to few cheese shops, among them Fromagerie Sophie and Vivant Fine Cheese, two favorite destinations for a turophile (cheese fancier). My mission started with veteran cheesemonger Sophie Boban-Doering, owner of San Luis Obispo’s popular cheese shop Fromagerie Sophie. The store is stocked with some 60 to 70 cheeses with a database of over 300, mostly imported with a small U.S. selection

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

from California, Washington State, Oregon and Indiana. A visit with Boban-Doering is like a Cheese 101 lesson; it’s a total immersion and education. There are a few essentials in assembling a well-crafted cheese platter, she observes. “Think of your cheese board as setting a table," advises Boban-Doering. “How you want to present different colors, textures, heights and profiles of cheeses.” Let your creativity guide you in decorating with edible flowers, dried and fresh fruits, nuts and honeycomb. To assemble a cheese board, Boban-Doering suggests including a range of cheeses — one each of sheep, cow, buffalo and goat milk. “They all bring different profiles and textures,” she notes, plus the sheep and goat cheeses are easier on people with lactose intolerance. Next, incorporate color with orange-tinted cheeses such as gouda from Holland, Mimolette from France, the classic British Sparkenhoe Red Leicester or Midnight Moon, a goat gouda made in Holland exclusively for California’s Cypress Grove cheese company, a nutty creamy cheese with a delicious caramel finish. Add soft, creamy cheeses, such as the Italian Robiolo di Capra, a cow and goat’s milk blend wrapped in leek leaves from Piedmont; or Époisses de Bourgogne, the odiferous, soft, washed rind, cow cheese from Burgundy. Blue cheeses, wrapped in grape or fig leaves and soaked in brandy or whiskey are also a must on the cheese board.

At Vivant Fine Cheese in downtown Paso, I found an overwhelming selection. The store stocks over 250 varieties, mostly imported and a few from California, Oregon and Wisconsin. There were such offerings as the Derby sage cheddar from Holland, an Alpine cheese coated with herbs and flowers, a truffle-laced Moliterno from Sardinia and an Irish cheddar fused with Porter beer. In the winter season, a glass of Port or Madeira is a match made in Heaven with salty blue cheeses such as Oregon’s Rogue River blue cheese soaked in pear brandy and wrapped in grape leaves. Nearby, Di Raimondos Italian Market and Cheese Shop offers a selection of some 50 varieties. Among them, the cave-aged Mimolette, an earthy Spanish blue Valdeon; Dreamweaver, a beer-washed soft goat cheese; and Old Quebec, the classic three-year aged Canadian cheddar. What about the leftover cheeses from the holidays, I ask? Boban-Doering’s face lights up. “No, you don’t want it to ever go to waste,” she replies. “It’s not going to go bad, it’s cheese.” First off, how about a fondue? “Make a mélange of cheeses, put it all in food processor, melt it for fondue,” she advises. The mélange also makes a delicious dip and toppings for soups and nachos. Then you can get creative with assorted cheeses as toppings on flatbread pizzas or whip up a mac n’ cheese. Left over Époisses? Stuff it in fresh ravioli and cook it with butter — simple and delicious. Add the rind of Grana Padano to flavor vegetable soups or fill scones or tartlets with leftover Brie. As for grilled cheese sandwiches, she suggests hard cheeses, such as the earthy, mushroomy Welsh cheese Gorwydd Caerphilly. It goes well with Chardonnay, Riesling or beer. Other sandwich options include Welsh Rarebit and Croque Monsieur. Then there’s the Raclette, an Alpine cow’s milk cheese and a Swiss dish. The cheese is melted on a special Raclette grill, scraped off directly on a plate and served with sliced meats and potatoes. The hearty cheese-based dishes are not only ideal for winter, they’re also a great match for Paso’s bold red wines.

colonymagazine.com | 29

| North SLO County Activity & Events Guide

Special Events

January 11 — Lightshare is providing free sessions of light and tone from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Santa Margarita Community Hall, 22501 I Street. No appointment necessary for a Project of Light session. All are welcome to come and enjoy a free tune up facilitated by Lightshare team volunteers. Visit www.lightshare.us or call 805-305-7595 for more information. January 12 —Join the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce for a spectacular evening at their 2018 Awards Dinner, celebrating award winners in the business community. Enjoy delectable dishes brought to you by Phil's Catering. The event will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the Pavilion on the Lake, 9315 Pismo Avenue. For more information, visit www.atascaderochamber.org. January 19 — Winter Wine Stroll with the Downtown Paso Robles Wineries takes place from 2 to 5 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon downtown strolling, sipping and nibbling gourmet goodies at 16 of our Paso Robles Downtown Wineries tasting rooms. Tickets are $40 and are available from downtownpasowine. com/events January 19 — Highway 46 Wineries come together for the 18th Annual Esprit du Vin from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This is an evening of wine and cheese pairings, live music and much more. VIP and general admission tickets are available by visiting spritduvinpasorobles.eventbrite.com

the

Library

Submit listings to events@nosloco.com, and visit nosloco.com for more information on events. *Submissions must be made four weeks prior to publication date.

Atascadero Library 6555 Capistrano, Atascadero • 805-461-6161 Tuesday & Wednesday — 10:30 a.m., Preschool Story time for 1-5 year olds Friday — 10:30 a.m., Toddler Story time, 1-3 year olds Special Events January 2 — Craft Club, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., open for 6 to 12 year olds, registration required January 4 — Teen A-Town Create Space, 2 to 4:30 p.m., open to 10 to 17 year olds January 8 — “What’s APP?” How to Use Your Phone Apps, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., open to adults January 11 — Teen Art Contest/ Teen A-Town Create Space, 2 to 4:30 p.m., open to 10 to 17 year olds January 16 — A Visit from Our Zoo!, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., open to all ages January 17 — Mixed Minds Book Group, 2:30 to 3:30 pm., open to adults

Business Atascadero Chamber of Commerce atascaderochamber.org • 805-466-2044 6907 El Camino Real, Suite A, Atascadero, CA 93422 January 12 — Annual Dinner at the Pavilion on the Lake at 5:30 p.m. Meal provided by Phil’s Catering. Register at atascaderochamber.org Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce pasorobleschamber.com • 805-238-0506 1225 Park St, Paso Robles, CA 93446 Office Hours with District Supervisor John Peschong — third Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m., Paso Robles Cham-

30 | colonymagazine.com

January 19 — The 4th Annual Tamale Festival takes place in the Sunken Gardens from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. A Tamale eating contest is open to ages 12 and up as well as voting for the People’s Choice Award for Best Tamale. The event is open to the public, but bring your wallet to purchase delicious food, activities and merchandise. January 26 — You are cordially invited to join the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce for their Annual Gala celebrating the past year's triumphs, the 2019 Board of Directors installation and recognition of the Roblan of the Year. This year's theme is "Lighting the Way." The event will take place Saturday, January 26 from 5:30 to 10 p.m. at the Paso Robles Inn Ballroom, 1103 Spring Street in Paso Robles. Tickets are $125 or $1,500 for a sponsored table of eight. Register online or contact the Chamber Office at 805-238-0506. February 1-2 — The Father Daughter Dance will take place at the Atascadero Pavilion on the Lake. February 1 is for those 11-and-under from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and February 2 is for those 12-and-up from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Visit Atascadero.org or call 805-4703360 for more information. February 9 — The City of Atascadero and Atascadero Colony District invite you to the Sweetheart Stroll from 1 to 4 p.m. 15 wineries will be pouring at various downtown locations as well as complementary tours of City Hall. Tickets are $20 per person and will be available at 6500 Palma Ave.

January 18 — Teen A-Town Create Space, 2 to 4:30 p.m., open to 10 to 17 year olds January 19 — Lego Club, 2 to 3 p.m., open to 5 to 12 year olds, registration required January 23 — Teen Manga Art, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., open to 10 to 17 year olds January 25 — Teen A-Town Create Space, 2 to 4:30 p.m., open to 10 to 17 year olds February 1 — Teen A-Town Create Space, 2 to 4:30 p.m., open to 10 to 17 year olds Teen A-Town Create Space, 2 to 4:30 p.m., open to 10 to 17 year olds Paso Robles Library 1000 Spring St., Paso Robles • 805- 237-3870 Monday — 11:30 a.m., Preschool Story time for 1-3 year olds Thursday — 10:30 a.m., Mother Goose on the Loose for ages 0-18 months Fridays — eBook Clinic with Patrick McCoy, 2 p.m., 2:20 p.m. and 2:40 p.m., open to 16 and over. See Library Events Calendar for more information.

Special Events January 14 — LEGO Build, 4 to 5 p.m., open to 7 to 12 year olds January 28 — Maker Monday, 4 to 5 p.m., open to 7 to 12 year olds, limited to 30 participants Creston Library 6290 Adams, Creston • 805- 237-3010 No events this month San Miguel Library 254 13th St, San Miguel • 805- 467-3224 No events this month Santa Margarita Library 9630 Murphy Ave, Santa Margarita • 805- 438-5622 January 5 — Young People’s Reading Round Table, 4 to 5:30 p.m., open to 12 to 16 year olds February 2 — Young People’s Reading Round Table, 4 to 5:30 p.m., open to 12 to 16 year olds Shandon Library 195 N 2nd St, Shandon • 805- 237-3009

ber of Commerce Conference Room. Contact Vicki Janssen for appointment, vjanssen@co.clo.ca.us, 805-781-4491 Office Hours with Field Representative for Senator Bill Monning — third Thursday, 2 to 4 p.m., Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce Conference Room. Contact Hunter Snider for appointment, 805-549-3784 January 9 — Membership Mixer, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Host TBD, visit pasorobleschamber.com for more information January 26 — Annual Gala “Lighting the Way”, 5:30

to 10 p.m. held at Paso Robles Inn Ballroom, 1103 Spring St., Paso; dinner, program and auction are held to celebrate the past year’s triumphs, install the 2019 Board of Directors and recognize the Roblan of the Year. Register online or by calling 805-238-0506 Templeton Chamber of Commerce templetonchamber.com • 805- 434-1789 321 S. Main Street #C, Templeton, CA 93465 Chamber Board of Directors Meeting — 4 to 5:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Pacific Premier Bank Conference Room on Las Tablas Blvd.

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

North SLO County Activity & Events Guide |

4th Annual Tamale Festival Adds to the Recipe Chihuahua costume contest spices up festivities

By Colony Magazine Staff

he City of Atascadero is host to the 4th Annual Tamale Festival in Sunken Gardens and across the downtown coming Saturday, January 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event has been a success, growing each year from the inaugural event in 2016. Featuring gourmet, traditional and sweet tamales — and everything between — tamale vendors arrive from all over California. The City expects more than 30 tamale vendors. The popular “Tamale Contest” will return this year, where all of the tamale vendors can showcase their outstanding work in creating the “best” tamale. There will be a “People’s Choice Tamale” and a “Judges Favorite Tamale.” Members of the Atascadero City Council and local celebrities will kick off the judging of the Tamale Contest at 11 a.m. to select their own personal favorite tamale. The winners of the “Judges Favorite Tamale” along with the People’s Choice for the “Most Popular Tamale” will be announced at 5 p.m.

The “Tamale Eating Contest” is a favorite and this year and anyone interested in participating can register at the Information Booth from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. There will be two categories, one for ages 12 and over on who can eat the most tamales, and one for under 12 years of age to see who can eat two tamales the fastest. These contest participants will have two minutes in each age category to master the goal. There will be an entry fee of $10 per person for 12 and over and free for under 12 years of age. The contest will take place at 2:30 p.m. Space

is limited, first-come-first served. First-place winners will receive a trophy. New this year will be the Chihuahua Costume Contest and Fashion Show. Sign-ups will also take place at the Information booth from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and the contest will take place at 3:30 p.m. Entertainment will include the Mariachi Mexicanisimo band, the famous Dancing Horses, soloist Manuel Enrique, the Grupo Folklorico Dancers from Paso Robles, as well as music from the Dork Band, Ricky Montijo, and the Los Gatos Locos band. The festival will also include bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals and plenty of fun for all ages. A variety of food and craft vendors will be featured, providing a wide variety of other food types to appease everyone’s palette and appetite. For interested tamale vendors and other food or merchant vendors, the deadline to register is January 4 at 5 pm. Applications are available online at VisitAtascadero.com/events Click on “Tamale Festival.” For more information, contact Terrie Banish at 470-3490 or email tbanish@atascadero.org.

LaDonna’s

LaDonna White is kicking up Atascadero’s dining scene up a notch with classic American, Italian and French dishes complemented with local wines and an impressive list of some 67 craft cocktails. Chef and owner of her namesake restaurant LaDonna White cooks farm-to-table, not freezer-to-fryer food. “I want to bring magic and romance to this city,” she said of the emerging scene of Atascadero.

While LaDonna is busy in the galley -sized kitchen, her ﬁancee Aaron Ezell commands the bar — shaking up signature cocktails like sage smoked gin martini. An interior designer for restaurants in New York and later residential in Los Angeles, LaDonna switched to the food and wine profession, graduating from Paso’s Culinary Arts Academy and Cal Poly’s viticulture program.

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

LaDonna crafts everything from scratch, appetizers such as stuffed portobellos, baked eggplant, artichoke ﬁlled crepes and twice baked potato. Among the entrees, the Asian style pork belly is diner’s favorite as well as butternut squash ravioli, chicken pot pie and Angus sirloin meatballs. For LaDonna and Aaron, it’s been a labor of love. The restaurant’s contemporary interior is designed “gender neutral” with a sleek bar counter and tables and upholstered the banquets. The 50 seater restaurant with a private party lounge offers an intimate dining experience and LaDonna welcomes customer feed back. “I want to give people what they want.”

colonymagazine.com | 31

| North SLO County Activity & Events Guide Culture & The Arts Art After Dark Paso — first Saturday, wine tasting, 5 to 9 p.m., Downtown Paso, hosted by Studios on the Park.

Taking Care

Business

North County Toast ‘N Talk Toastmasters — every Monday, 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. 1101 Riverside Dr, Paso, 805-464-9229 Early But Worth It Chapter — Business Networking International — every Tuesday, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Culinary Arts Academy, Paso, Visitors welcome, bniccc.com Business Networking International — every Wednes-

day, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Cricket’s, 9700 El Camino Real, #104, Atascadero. Visitors welcome, bniccc.com Above the Grade Advanced Toastmasters — first Thursday, 7 to 9 p.m. Kennedy Club Fitness, Paso, 805-238-0524, 930206.toastmastersclubs.org Partners in $uccess — Business Networking International — every Thursday, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Paso Robles Assn. of Realtors, 1101 Riverside Ave. Visitors

welcome, bniccc.com Speak Easy Toastmasters Club — every Friday, 12:10 to 1:15 p.m. Founders Pavilion, Twin Cities Community Hospital. 9797.toastmastersclubs.org. 805-237-9096 Coffee at the Carlton — Entrepreneurs and business leaders meet Wednesdays at 9 am. Carlton Hotel in Atascadero.

Kiwanis Club — every Thursday, 7 a.m. Paso Robles — 1900 Golden Hill Rd. (Culinary Arts Academy) Kiwanis Club — every Tuesday, 12 p.m. Board Members — first Tuesday, 1 p.m. Night Meeting — third Wednesday, 6 p.m., Su Casa Restaurant (2927 Spring St.) Lions Club Atascadero Club #2385 • 5035 Palma Ave. Meeting — second and fourth Wednesday, 7 p.m. Paso Robles Club 2407 • 1420 Park St. Meeting — second and fourth Tuesday, 7 p.m. San Miguel Club 2413 • 256 13th St. Meeting — first and third Tuesday, 7 p.m. Santa Margarita Club 2418 • 9610 Murphy St. Meeting — second and fourth Monday, 7:30 p.m. Shandon Valley Club • 630-571-5466 Templeton Club 2427 • 601 Main St. • 805-434-1071 Meeting — first and third Thursday, 7 p.m. Loyal Order of Moose Atascadero #2067 • 8507 El Camino Real • 805466-5121 Meeting — first and third Thursday, 6 p.m. Bingo — first Sunday, 12-2 p.m. Queen of Hearts — every Tuesday, 7 p.m.

Pool League — every Wednesday Paso Robles #243 • 2548 Spring St. • 805-239-0503 Visit mooseintl.org for more information Optimist Club Atascadero — dinner meetings second and fourth Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Outlaws Bar & Grill, 9850 E. Front Rd. or call 805-712-5090 Paso Robles — dinner meetings second and fourth Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Paso Robles Elks Lodge, 1420 Park St. Rotary International Atascadero — 9315 Pismo Ave. Meeting — every Wednesday, 12 p.m. at Atascadero Lake Pavilion Paso Robles Sunrise — 1900 Golden Hill Rd. Meeting — every Wednesday, 7 a.m. at Culinary Arts Academy Templeton — 416 Main St. Meeting — first and third Tuesday, 7 a.m. at McPhee’s Grill Veterans of Foreign Wars Atascadero #2814 — 9555 Morro Rd., • 805-466-3305 Meeting — first Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Paso Robles #10965 — 240 Scott St., • 805-239-7370 Meeting — first Tuesday, 7 p.m.

296-1935 for dinner reservations, ewarbirds.org Paso Robles Democratic Club — third Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. at Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson, White Oak Room. All meetings are open to the public. For further info visit our Facebook page or visit pasoroblesdemocrats.org. North County Newcomers — Deadline for the January 16 evening event at Studios On The Park, 1130 Pine St. Paso Robles, from 6 to 8 p.m. is January 8. Les Beck will be featured entertainment. Reservations are required and prepayment is encouraged. RSVP and additional info visit northcountynewcomers.org Active Senior Club of Templeton — first Friday, 10:30 a.m. at Templeton Community Center, 601 S. Main St. North County Women’s Connection Luncheon — January 11 with speaker in Barbara Whiteman, a former clown, telling us "What it takes to be good enough." Also Mari of Olivito will discuss all the uses of Olive oil. Held at the Templeton Community Center at 11:00 a.m. for only $12, which includes lunch. Make your reservations by January 4 with JoAnn Pickering at 239-1096 Active Senior Club of Templeton — first Friday, 10:30 a.m., Templeton Community Center, 601 S. Main St. Meetings include a presentation on

relevant local issues, often followed by a luncheon. Membership is $5 per year. Contact Templeton Recreation Department with questions. 805-4344909 North County Wines and Steins — first Friday of the month, 6 p.m. at Templeton American Legion Hall, 805 Main St. Meetings include wine and beer tasting, speaker or program and potluck. Visit winesandsteins.org for more information. Central Coast Violet Society — second Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Brookdale Activity Room, 1919 Creston Road, Paso. Email Znailady1@aol. com with any questions. Classic Car Cruise Night — second Saturday (weather permitting), 5 to 7 p.m. at King Oil Tools, 2235 Spring St., Paso. Contact Tony Ororato, 805712-0551 with any questions. Daughters of the American Revolution — first Sunday. For time and place, email dmcpatriotdaughter@gmail.com Atascadero AARP Card Club — hosts bridge games on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12 to 3 p.m., bridge lessons Thursday at 1 p.m. , pinnochle games Thursdays at 11 a.m. and Mah Jong games Thursday at 10 a.m. call 805-461-4136 for more information.

Service Organizations American Legion Post 50 • 240 Scott St., Paso Robles • 805-239-7370 Commander John Irwin, 805-286-6187. Hamburger Lunch— every Thursday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., $5 Pancake Breakfast — third Saturday, 8-11 a.m., $6 Post Meeting — fourth Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. American Legion Post 220 • 805 Main Street, Templeton • 805-610-2708 Post Meeting — second and fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m. Elks Lodge Atascadero Lodge 2733 • 1516 El Camino Real • 805-466-3557 Lodge Meeting — second and fourth Thursdays Paso Robles Lodge 2364 • 1420 Park Street • 805239-1411 Lodge Meeting — first and third Wednesdays El Paso de Robles Grange #555 • 627 Creston Rd. • 805-239-4100 Zumba — Tuesday and Thursday, 8:45 a.m. Do Paso Square Dancers — second Thursday, 7-9 p.m. Pancake Breakfast — second Sunday, 7:30-11 a.m., January 13 — Grange Meeting, 12 to 1 p.m. Kiwanis International Atascadero — 7848 Pismo Ave. • 805-610-7229 Key Club — every Wednesday, 11:55 a.m.

Clubs & Meetings Almond Country Quilters Guild Meeting — January 19 — Community Quilts at Bethel Lutheran Church, 295 Old County Rd, Templeton. Contact Judi Stevenson at 805-431-5907, email koriann2508@ gmail.com or visit acqguild.com. February 2 — Learn the techniques required for successful whip stitch wool appliqué while working on a small piece that can be finished into a needle case or pin cushion. Location TBA, so visit their website for updates. Coffee with a CHP — second Tuesday, 8:30 a.m., Nature’s Touch Nursery & Harvest, 225 Main St., Templeton. Exchange Club — second Tuesday, 12:15-1:30 p.m. at McPhee’s, 416 S. Main St., Templeton. 805-610-8096, exchangeclubofnorthslocounty.org Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 465 — second Wednesday, 7 p.m. at Paso Airport Terminal, 4900 Wing Way. Getting youth involved with aviation, EAA465.org North County Multiflora Garden Club — second Wednesday, 12 to 3 p.m. at PR Community Church, 2706 Spring St., Paso Robles, Public is welcome, no charge, guests welcome. Call 805-712-7820 or visit multifloragardenclub.org Monthly Dinner at Estrella Warbirds Museum — first Wednesday, 6 p.m., guest speakers. 805-

32 | colonymagazine.com

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

North SLO County Activity & Events Guide | Government Paso Robles City Council — first and third Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. at the City of Paso Robles Library Conference Room, 1000 Spring Street Senior Citizens Advisory Committee — second Monday, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Paso Robles Senior Center, 270 Scott Street Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee — second Monday, 4 p.m. at Centennial Park Live Oak Room, 600 Nickerson Road Planning Commission — second and fourth Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. at the City of Paso Robles Library Conference Room, 1000 Spring Street Paso Robles Democratic Club — third Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. at the White Oak Room, Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson; Visitors/newcomers welcome. Contact Joyanne Soderholm with any questions. Call at 805-769-4847 or email at 2joyanne@gmail.com

Library Board of Trustees — second Thursday, 9 a.m. at City of Paso Robles Library, 1000 Spring Street Airport Commission — fourth Thursday of every other month, 6:30 p.m. at 4900 Wing Way, Paso Robles. Templeton (Community Service District) Board of Directors — first and third Tuesday, 7 p.m. at 420 Crocker Street Atascadero Planning Commission — first and third Tuesday, 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 6500 Palma Avenue City Council — second and fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 6500 Palma Avenue Santa Margarita Area Advisory Council Monthly meetings — first Wednesday, 7 p.m. at Santa Margarita Community Hall, 22501 I St.

No meeting in January 2019 for recess. County of San Luis Obispo All meetings below meet at the County Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey St, Room D170, San Luis Obispo. Subdivision Review Board — first Monday, 9 a.m. Board of Supervisors — first and third Tuesday, 9 a.m. Parks & Recreation Commission — fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m. Airport Land Use Commission — third Wednesday, 1:30 p.m. Air Pollution and Control Board — fourth Wednesday of every odd numbered month, with some exceptions. 9 a.m. Local Agency Formation Commission — third Thursday, 9 a.m. Planning Department Hearing — first and third Friday, 9 a.m.

Health & Wellness THE WELLNESS KITCHEN AND RESOURCE CENTER

1255 Las Tablas Rd., Templeton. Visit thewkrc. org, 805-434-1800 for information on Healing and Wellness Foods meal programs, volunteer opportunities, and classes (to RSVP, register and pay online.) Hours: Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. January 17 — Healthy Cooking Class: Comfort Foods — Instructor Evan Vossler. 5:30-7:30 p.m., FREE for those facing illness, otherwise $20. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. January 18 — Healthy Cooking Class: Comfort Foods — 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Idler’s Home, 122 Cross St., San Luis Obispo. RSVP required to 805-434-1800 or nancy@TheWKRC.org. January 23 — Intro to Wellness: A Taste of Change with Registered Dietitian Hayley Garelli. Learn 10 simple ways to begin your clean eating journey, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Please RSVP. Class is FREE.

CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY

1051 Las Tablas Road, Templeton provides support, education and hope. 805-238-4411. Cancer Support Helpline, 888-793-9355, 6 a.m.6 p.m. PST. Visit cscslo.org for more information. January 21— Office Closed SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Jan. 8: Young Survivors Peer Gathering, 6 p.m. in Templeton; Jan. 16: Education: Restoring Strength, Balance and Flow, 11:30 a.m.; Jan. 17: Advanced Cancer Support Group, 11 a.m.; Jan. 23: Caregiver Support Group, 10 a.m.; Navigating Change Workshop & Journaling, 11:30 a.m.; Potluck Social, 12:30 p.m.; Jan. 24: Survivorship Support Group, 11 a.m.; Young Survivor Peer Support SLO, 6 p.m.;

January 2019, COLONY Magazine

Jan. 30: Mindfulness Hour, 11:30 a.m.; Drumming: Musical Expression, 6 p.m.; Jan. 31: Breast Cancer Support, 11 a.m. WEEKLY SCHEDULE: MONDAY: Therapeutic Yoga at Dharma Yoga, 11:30 a.m.; TUESDAY: Educational Radio Show, 1:00 p.m.; WEDNESDAY: Living with Cancer Support Group —Newly Diagnosed/Active Treatment, every other week, 10 a.m.; FRIDAY: Grupo Fuerza y Esperanza, every other week, 6 p.m. Healthy Lifestyle — Navigate with Niki, Thursdays by appointment, call 805-238-4411; Cancer Well-Fit® at Paso Robles Sports Club, Mondays and Thursdays 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., pre-registration is required with Kathy Thomas at kathythomas10@hotmail.com or 805-6106486.; Beautification Boutique offers products for hair loss and resources for mastectomy patients (knittedknockers.org).

SUPPORT & ENCOURAGEMENT

Take Off Pounds Sensibly — every Monday, 6:30 p.m. at Community Church of Atascadero, 5850 Rosario, basement room. 805-4661697 or visit tops.org North County Overeaters Anonymous — every Monday, 5:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Fireside Room, 940 Creston Rd., Paso, OA.org. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers — first & third Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 940 Creston Road, Paso, Ashley Hazell, 805459-6049, nocomops@gmail.com. Chronic Pain Support Group — CRPS (Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome), third Tuesdays, 5 to 6 p.m. at Rabobank, 1025 Las Tablas Rd, Templeton. Contact Suzanne Miller 805-7045970 or email suzanne.miller@ymail.com. North County Parkinson’s Support Group — third Tuesday, 1 p.m. at Templeton Presby-

terian Church, 610 So. Main St. Info: Rosemary Dexter 805466-7226. Overeaters Anonymous Atascadero — every Thursday, 6:30 p.m. at California Manor, Past the Lobby and follow the signs, 10165 El Camino Real, Atascadero. Contact Irene 818-415-0353. North County Prostate Cancer Support Group — third Thursday, 7 p.m. at Twin Cities Community Hospital Pavilion Room. Bill Houston 805995-2254 or American Cancer Society 805473-1748. Lupus/Autoimmune Disorder Support Group — fourth Saturday, 10:30 a.m. at Nature’s Touch, 225 So. Main St., Templeton.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS

Sponsored by Hospice SLO • 805-544-2266 • hospiceslo.org Living with Grief Group — every Monday, 12:15 p.m. Pet Loss Group — last Monday, 5 p.m. General Grief Group — every Tuesday, 6 p.m. Suicide Bereavement — fourth Wednesdays, 3 p.m. Spouse and Partner Group — every Thursday, 11:30 a.m. Child Loss Group — every Thursday, 6 p.m. Family Caregiver Group — every other Friday, 2:30 p.m. Meetings at RISE – Visit in person at 1030 Vine St., Paso Robles or call 805-226-5400 General Grief Group — every Wednesday, 5 p.m. Meeting at 517 13th Street, Paso. No cost, no pre-registration. GriefShare — every Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Fireside Room at Trinity Lutheran Church 940 Creston Road, Paso Robles.

colonymagazine.com | 33

By Sarah Pope

ith three young boys, all with very different interests, sometimes I feel like the toys are taking over. Bruder trucks, with a large side of HotWheels, topped with all the Star Wars Legos! I have had to create some sort of method to this madness. Fortunately, I have one kiddo that gives me a hand keeping things in some sort of organized chaos. My oldest is a tad on the neat freak side, like myself. He loves a clean room. I can always count on him to help move furniture and work on projects with me. My partner in crime. Boy number two can make a room look like a bomb went off in it in less than 2.5 seconds and wouldn’t mind one bit if it stayed that way.

76 Gas Station.......................... 23 A Heavenly Home.................... 21 American West Tire Pros........... 13 Anna & Mom............................ 19 Atascadero Greyhound Foundation ................................................. 07 Atascadero Pet Hospital........... 15 Atascadero Printery Foundation... ................................................. 09

Awakening Ways...................... 09 Bob Sprain’s Draperies............. 13 Bottom Line Bookkeeping....... 18 Branches of Wellness Acupuncture ................................................. 15 Central Coast Medical Aesthetics.. ................................................. 15 City of Atascadero..................... 02 Colony Media........................... 21

34 | colonymagazine.com

My three-year-old, well … he’s three. I think what seems to makes life easier for the boys and myself is that EVERYTHING has a home. It makes cleaning up easier, less time trying to find that one thing and also helps to avoid missing and mixing parts. Our LEGO situation is golden. If the LEGOS are not built and placed on a shelf for display (and to collect dust) they share a storage box with its instructions and extra pieces. I can’t begin to tell you how many happy customers from Facebook Buy, Sell, Trade, the boys have, due to how well they have cared for their toys. Here’s a comment from a happy customer, “If you have anymore stuff to sell, I’m your gal!” Towards the end of November and before winter vacation, I like to sneak into the kids rooms and PURGE! If it hasn’t been touched in six months, doesn’t have any sentimental value, or won’t be loved by the next sibling, then it’s gone — donated, sold on Facebook or consigned at our local children’s consignment shop. And with Christmas right around the corner there couldn’t be a better time time to offer our preloved goodies with others. Selling on social media, like Buy Sell Trade or Craigslist, may be inconvenient when you are working. Keeping up on your posts or meeting up with buyers, even the initial posting, can become a full time job. This is when consignment can be a life saver. Baby’s Babble is a Children’s Consignment Boutique in Atascadero, accepting boys and girls clothes, from newborn up to size 14, for consignment. It’s as easy as making an appointment to take your goodies in to be sold DIRECTORY TO OUR ADVERTISERS

Farron Elizabeth....................... 19 Dancing With Our Stars........... 26 Five Star Rain Gutters............... 15 Glenn's Repair......................... 05 Greg Malik RE Group............... 05 H&R Block................................ 07 Healthy Inspirations................. 18 Hearing Aid Specialists of the

Central Coast............................ 03 Hope Chest Emporium............ 11 John Donovan State Farm Insurance & Financial Services, Inc.. 25 La Donna’s................................ 31 Las Tablas Animal Hosp............ 08 Lube N Go................................ 08 Natural Alternative................... 05

for you. Baby gear such as cribs, strollers, toys and so much more are also welcomed..The boutique also carries a wide array of natural products for mama and baby as well as new clothes, shoes, and other fun and unique gifts. The owner, Gabby, is always coordinating great events to help the community and bring local moms together. $10 bag day is a big event put on by the boutique once or twice a year, advertised on Facebook and Instagram. Just a quick RSVP via phone or social media and you are in! Like them on Facebook and follow them on Instagram @babys_babble! Don’t let the toys take over and start your New Year off right! Happy 2019! Nautical Cowboy...................... 09 Odyssey World Cafe................. 11 Olan Kaigel, Century 21........... 17 Reverse Mortgage Professionals . ................................................. 23 Robert Fry, M.D......................... 17 San Luis Obispo County Office of Education................................. 24 Solarponics.............................. 07

Spice of Life.............................. 19 Sue Hubbard - Farmers Insurance ................................................. 13 Templeton Door & Trim............ 09 The Laundromat....................... 11 Tooth & Nail Winery................. 36 Triple 7 Motorsports................. 23 Triple 7 Tractor.......................... 13

COLONY Magazine, January 2019

INA UG RACURAL E

Brynn & Brittni Frace’s Memorial

2019 Running Chicken 10K & Fun Run JANUARY

Fundraiser for Scholarships, Athletic Equipment and Community Connectivity

Run4Bitti&Brynn

Lake Santa Margarita, SLO County Race Starts at 9:00 am Sunday, January 6, 2019

$35

Brynn & Bitti were sisters, best friends and dedicated runners who ran with passion and friends. They were selﬂess, authentic and full of joy. A Memorial Athletic Scholarship as well as an Athletic Shoe Donation program would be just the thing they would support. Brynn & Bitti wanted everyone to ﬁnd their Inner Chicken. What does being a chicken mean? To them it meant living each day with: Courage, Commitment, Loyalty, Dancing, Spontaneity, Acceptance, Fun and Running with Passion. INFORMATION & REGISTRATION AT: RUN4BITTIANDBRYNN.ORG

Food Pairings

Live Music

Weekly

Friday Night Live 4:30 – 7:30 pm (Winter Hours) 5:30 – 8:30 pm (Starting March 10)

Fridays Linner Pairings 12 – 8 pm

Sundays 1 – 4 pm

Saturday Lunch Pairings 10:30 am – 5:30 pm

Uncorked & Unplugged Series January – April Spring Swing Series Lineup TBA

Sunday Brunch & Lunch Pairings 10:30 am – 5:30 pm BBQ Music & Food President’s Day Memorial Day Labor Day Independence Day Celebration

Summer Concert Series Lineup TBA

Special Events & Weddings

Seasonal Sweets Pairings Candy Pairings • Donut Pairings Truffle Pairings • Fruit Pairings

Local artists Live Local Artist Paintings Call the Tasting Room for more information

You imagine it, we create it. Company Retreats • Private Tastings & Tours Luncheons • Brunches • Bridal Showers Baby Showers & Sprinkles • Weddings Rehearsal Dinners • Retirement Parties With Event Coordinators, Executive Chef & Catering-Events Staff on Site anything is possible. Call us today.

The kitchen at Tooth and Nail is creating a fulfilling experience from first bite to last. Chef Brenen Bonetti A California’s Central Coast native with roots in the produce of Salinas and the seafood of Monterey. Deep passion and respect for farm-to-table cuisine.

February

Valentine’s Day Dinner

March

Mardi Gras Dinner • Spring Swing Series • Zin Fest Makers Market • Paint Bar, March 31 • Wine Club Pick Up Party • Game of Thrones Season 7 Rewind

April

Easter Brunch 3090 Anderson Road, Paso Robles (805) 369-6100 rabblewine.com

Brenan studied at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. Ten Years later, and... • Sous Chef at Farallon Restaurant • Head Chef at B Restaurant • Chef de Cuisine at Plaj Restaurant • Executive Chef at Palm House Restaurant

UPCOMING EVENTS: May

Cinco de Mio Celebration Mother’s Day Brunch • Wine Fest Weekend

June

Paint Bar, June 30 • Father’s Day Celebration Summer Concerts • Chef’s Dinner

July

Wine Olympics • Rabble Storms Mid-State Fair

Visit our tasting room

Chef Brenen cooks with the same love and reverence for California’s local fare with local seasonal produce and a passion for from-scratch cooking. Our cuisine is a variety of his favorite bites to pair with our great wines. Just like our wine, the food pairings are a product of time and love.

August

Exclusive Wine Club Event, Aug. 24 • Makers Market

September

Wine Club Pick Up Party • Chef’s Dinner

October

Paint Bar, Oct. 27 • Harvest Weekend • Halloween

November

Chef’s Dinner • Movie Night • Veteran’s Day Music

Download our Augmented Reality App

2019 January Colony Magazine

Articles inside

Montessori School Hosts Film Fest