Paso Robles Magazine #215 • March 2019

PEOPLE | EVENTS | SHOPPING | DINING | MARCH 2019

Standing Tall

WCT Presents: Over the River and Through the Woods The Eberle Legacy

Home Improvement

Idler’s Home | 65 Years

PASOMAGAZINE.COM

March 12, 13 & 14 CALL 805-434-6659

contents March 2019

FEATURES

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22

EROICA CALIFORNIA

‘RIDE, EAT AND RELAX’ WITH A HISTORIC INTERNATIONAL CYCLING EVENT

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K-MAN CYCLERY

KEITH AND ROBYN SCHMIDT BRING THEIR ATHLETIC FIRE TO SERVICE

TEMPLETON FEED & GRAIN

STANDING TALL ON MAIN STREET SINCE 1946

DEPARTMENTS

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LOCAL BUSINESS CalSun Electric and Solar Systems Inc. 28 HDH Construction 40 Rock Solid Stone Care 42 American Barn & Wood 43 Local Goods: Show Some Local Love

for Newlyweds 36

OAK LEAF 44 Hoofbeat & Calendar 38 Natural Alternative: Understanding

Your Microbiome PUBLISHER’S LETTER 8 Something Worth Reading ROUND TOWN Through the Grapevine 12 What’s Happening on Main Street 14 Cider Creek Bakery & Deli thrives

under new ownership 10

PASO PEOPLE Gary Eberle: Living Legend, Leaving Legacy 18 Brad Golden: Handyman Extraordinaire 16

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EVENTS Wine Country Theatre presents

Over the River and Through the Woods 27 North SLO County Activity & Event Guide 28 The 29th Annual Cattlemen’s Western

Art Show and Sale 32 Idler’s Appliance Celebrates 65 Years 34 Education: SLO County Schools

By Dr. James J. Brescia, Ed. D. 35 Paso Robles City Council Report 26

LAST WORD Two in Tow: Wine Country

Mushroom Farm Mural 50

ON THE COVER

Historic Templeton Feed and Grain Granary and Greg Lins 1951 Ford Woody Wagon.

Photo by Nicholas Mattson

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

Something Worth Reading “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”

— Vince Lombardi

THE STORY OF US | VOLUME XVIII | NO. 11 PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicholas Mattson PUBLISHER, OPERATIONS Hayley Mattson LEAD AD DESIGN Denise McLean

CONTACT US

(805) 239-1533 pasomagazine.com publisher@pasomagazine.com MAIL: P.O. Box 3996 Paso Robles, CA 93447

LAYOUT & DESIGN Travis Ruppe

EDITOR, LAYOUT & DESIGN Luke Phillips PREPRESS PRODUCTION Sue Dill CONTRIBUTORS Meagan Friberg

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

Proud to be Local!

Tonya Strickland

Paso Robles Magazine ©2019 is a local business owned and published by local people — Nicholas & Hayley Mattson

Heather Young

*No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form by any means without written consent from Paso Robles Magazine.

Millie Drum

Melissa Chavez Sarah Pope

Bec Braitling Mark Diaz

AD CONSULTANTS “Magazine Mama” Millie Drum millie@pasomagazine.com Pam Osborn pam@pasomagazine.com

Jamie Self jamie@pasomagazine.com

Find and Share ‘The Story Of Us’ Online at pasomagazine.com Like and Follow us: Facebook: @pasomagazine Instagram: @pasomagazine Twitter: @thepasomagazine

EDITORIAL DEADLINE

Karli Twisselman karli@pasomagazine.com

5th of each month preceding publication

John Lozano john@pasomagazine.com

8th of each month preceding publication

Carmen Kessler carmen@pasomagazine.com

Dana McGraw dana@pasomagazine.com

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31,000 Printed | 26,700 Mailed Locally!

Paso Robles Magazine is published monthly and distributed FREE to every residence and business in Paso Robles 93446, Templeton 93465, Shandon 93461, Bradley 93426, and San Miguel 93451 zip codes. Postage paid at Paso Robles, CA 93446.

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Editorial Policy

Commentary reflects the views of the writers and does not necessarily reflect those of Paso Robles Magazine. Paso Robles Magazine is delivered free to 26,700 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 ideas, press releases, letters and photos to editor@pasomagazine.com.

For advertising inquiries and rates email publisher@pasomagazine.com, or contact one of our Adversting Representatives listed above.

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“When you cook under pressure you trade perfection."

— Gordon Ramsay “Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.”

— Antoine de Saint-Exupery

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can always do better. That fact for me is a perpetual taskmaster. It is a blessing and a curse, because attempting perfection under the weight of human frailty asks a person to decide between mediocrity of attempting only that which one can comprehend and execute at level that looks like one accomplished perfection, or to push beyond the limits of knowledge and into the realm of unlimited possibility, however incremental.

NASA lost the Challenger and the Columbia, in 1986 and 2003, respectively. Will you become the next astronaut who pushes the boundaries of the known universe, knowing that perfection is not tangible even at the highest level of any given field? Will you become an artist, musician, or engineer, knowing that every attempt at bearing your soul will be subject to scrutiny?

Every month, now 19-and-counting since Hayley and I purchased Paso Robles Magazine and nine months since launching Colony Magazine, we hope to push a limit to what we can do as a publication and … well, we are not perfect.

So if we can’t be perfect, can we be the best in our field? Categorically?

We sure try. It is an exclusive club. Is it human to want to be a part of an exclusive club that is also seeking the approval of the widest possible audience? Or is it programming?

Who are we really trying to please? What are we trying to prove? What are we trying to be a part of? So many existential questions! Golly!

Being at the head of a small town magazine gives my wife and I a great deal of joy in hearing from our readers and advertisers about how our publication makes a difference. But it isn’t just praise we hear. We don’t get everything right, or get everything in. But we listen with open minds and hearts.

Our goal every issue is to provide our readers with something worth reading and hope to provide some inspiration for others to do something worth writing. We love covering the great things we have going on in the community, and it is because people do things worth writing that we get to write something worth reading. But we are more than just a newspaper.

Our publications are hand delivered to 42,000 mailboxes every month because everyone from our writers, designers, ad consultants, and advertisers believe that we are sharing something special. Paso Robles Magazine has been doing it for almost 18 years and every issue is special. We want to say to our critics, post-editors, and fans, thank you for reading! It is a pleasure to serve you something worth reading.

Please enjoy this issue of Paso Robles Magazine.

Nicholas Mattson 805-239-1533 nic@pasomagazine.com

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

— Thomas Fuller, 1727

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

| Through the Grapevine

T HE WILD W ILD W EST C ASINO NIGHT SUPPORTS YOUTH SPORTS

By Millie Drum

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or the past 13 years, the Paso Robles Youth Sports Council has raised money to improve and maintain sports fields and facilities for hundreds of local kids who play softball, baseball and soccer. As our population grows, a bigger demand for safe playing and practice fields increases. Fortunately, the solid partnership with the City of Paso Robles Recreation Department and the PR Public School District and the forum it creates, continues to bring the mission of the PRYSC to fruition.

Regarding the North River Road fields, Marc Dart, president of the Paso Robles Youth Sports Council, says “Councilman Steve Gregory has served as a pivotal person on moving this project along. We thank him and Councilman John Hamon for all of their support.”

North Coast Engineering is providing engineering and donating up to $5,000 in services.

Throughout Paso Robles, from batting cages,

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pitching mounds and playing fields to bleachers, clay and sod, the improvements allow hundreds of kids and their parents, family and friends to enjoy the game!

GET INVOLVED!

The completion of large projects as well as cleaning and building and field maintenance depends on teams of volunteers and sponsorships.

Services and products needed include grading, seeding, paving, fencing, sod and irrigation supplies. Financial donations are greatly appreciated. Monthly meetings are the third Monday of the month at 6 pm in the White Oak Room at Centennial Park.

For general info and sponsorships opportunities, contact Marc Dart at 805-431-4748 or info@PRYSC.org.

SATURDAY • APRIL 6

Centennial Park • 600 Nickerson Drive • PR Doors open at 6 p.m. • Gaming 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Dinner until 8 p.m. • Silent Auction until 9 p.m.

This event will include a tri-tip dinner, silent auction, raffle prizes, bingo cards and $100 in gambling chips! Tickets cost $45 and are available at prysc.com or by contacting any representative from member leagues: Paso Robles Girls Softball League, Paso Robles Youth Baseball or Paso Robles AYSO Soccer.

OVER 30 YEARS OF YOUTH BASEBALL IN PASO ROBLES

OPENING DAY | SATURDAY MARCH 2 AT 10 A.M. | SHERWOOD PARK ON SCOTT STREET IN PASO ROBLES | PRYOUTHBASEBALL.ORG

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

| It’s Happening on Main Street

This is What ’s Happening on Main Street!

Memberships Available!

All in favor of Spring say “I!”

Spring reminds us how beautiful the season’s change can be! Happy Easter to everybunny! It’s Main Street’s invitation to “Hop to It” and visit the Easter Bunny on Saturday, April 13 at the Holiday House in the City Park from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Dress up the kids (parents, you too!) and bring your Easter baskets. The Easter Bunny will have treats and pose for darling photos.

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The more individuals an organization can rally to its cause, the better. Even more so when the collective spirit comes from those who recognize the incredible effort that has created our thriving downtown.

Our Paso Robles Main Street Association is nationally accredited by the National Main Street Center because it follows the principles that build strong communities particularly in historic commercial districts.

Executive Director Norma Moye, the board of directors, staff, volunteers and committee chairmen, business owners and city officials are committed to creating and maintaining a downtown that is our city’s commercial, governmental, cultural and entertainment destination. Because membership relates to participation, the Associate Supporter Membership Program is critical to

By Millie Drum

the success of the current business economy as well as looking to the future. The yearly membership dues are $75 for property and business owners; $25 for individuals and families.

A key benefit of membership includes the information and networking opportunities gained by attending social mixers, board meetings and committee meetings, and engaging in social media. Additionally, a new Associate Supporter receives one FREE flyer distribution to downtown and mailing list (730 addresses). Distribution to just the downtown (200 flyers) is always free. For more information on the deadline, cost and printing of flyers, contact Carolyn Dildine at 805-238-4103.

Volunteers and Vendors needed!

Get involved, meet new people and offer your professional experi-

ence to the program through special events, committee work, beautification projects, office/clerical work, and creative projects including photography and art work.

Calling all local crafters, producers and purveyors! Events sponsored by the Main Street Association attract thousands of people to the City Park.

Upcoming events include Vintage Sidecar Rendezvous and Recycled Treasures, Olive Festival, Lavender Festival, Trading Days, Kids Flea Market, Taste of Downtown, Golden Oak Honey Festival and the Holiday Craft Bazaar. Refer to the calendar and vendor application forms on pasoroblesdowntown.org.

The Main Street office on Norma’s Way is open weekdays. Visit for information, brochures, publications and a look back at the history of downtown Paso Robles.

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

Welcome to Creston Village Brookdale Senior Living is now Creston Village, Assisted Living and Memory Care

Ten acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.

Perfect for a quiet walk or soaking up some Paso Robles sunshine.

Pegasus Senior Living, founded by industry veterans Steven Vick and Chris Hollister, has assembled a strong and passionate team of national talent to support 36 communities previously managed by Brookdale Senior Living. Pegasus will transition 6 communities from California on February 1, 2019 including Creston Village, Assisted Living and Memory Care.

The portfolio of communities includes Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care services. Pegasus Senior Living will revitalize several communities through capital investment into the physical environments and will emphasize a nimble, decentralized management structure that will enable local autonomy and local preferences.

Integrity • Dignity • Personalization • Choice 1919 Creston Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446

March 2019, Paso Robles Magazine

“We must be sincere and determined to cultivate an organization in which the resident experience is at the center of our design. A key to success, for us, will be to ensure that local leaders are able to respond to resident needs with our full support and without interference.”

– Matthew Thornton, COO. All areas of community operations will be evaluated and repositioned locally with the goal to revitalize and provide an authentic experience for seniors.

(805) 210-8601 pegasusseniorliving.com/communities/creston-village

pasomagazine.com | 13

Cider Creek Bakery & Deli

Fresh-Baked with New Ingredients

By Melissa Chavez

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hen the yen for comfort food strikes, many locals head to Cider Creek Bakery & Deli in Paso Robles. From breakfast sandwiches, burritos, and quiche to create-your-own sandwiches and soups for lunch, there’s something on the menu to please most everyone.

Guests receive a warm welcome at the family-style business before navigating a display case of muffins, cookies, pastries, and the bakery’s famous pies.

Last July, Cider Creek’s founding owners, Ken and Susie Jevec, sold their 23-year-old business to Brad and Becky Daugherty and their business partner Popie Kaiser. The apple cider tasting room and country boutique on Highway 46 West soon included fresh-baked pies and other treats before relocating just off Niblick and South River Road in Paso Robles.

Brad and Becky took a circuitous route to the restaurant business. For 22 years, Brad worked in

construction as an electrician. He later partnered with wife Becky at GLS Bookkeeping in Templeton where she is president and CEO. Reports from his clientele are all positive, Brad said, and customers enjoy interacting with Popie, who manages the restaurant, and other familiar faces.

Cider Creek uses produce from local vendors, including The Berry Man, and baking ingredients from family-owned Rob Ross Foods.

“Our food is fresh,” Brad said. “Even our salad dressings are made from scratch, and our customers notice. The quality of our roast beef makes our French Dip sandwich one of their favorites.”

Cider Creek’s delicious pies can be ordered in advance. Choose from five varieties of apple pie (classic apple, apple crisp, Dutch apple, caramel apple, and no-sugar apple), plus boysenberry, cherry, peach, apricot, peach-blueberry, and strawberry-rhubarb pies. Just as irresistible are Cider Creek’s cinnamon rolls, fresh and iced with cream cheese frosting.

Wade Daugherty, Popie Kaiser and Brad Daugherty

Brad’s two sons, Wade, 23, and Logan, 19, take an active part in the family business and their father couldn’t be prouder.

“Wade works at the restaurant full-time and Logan works part-time and attends Cuesta College. Wade wants to become a partner and he can’t wait to run the place!” Brad said. Among the sandwiches new to the menu are a grilled Turkey Ortega Melt and a unique Spanish Dip, which was Logan’s idea.

“We’re always doing research to improve and maintain consistency of our product,” Brad said.

“No matter how delicious our food tastes, we aim to do better for our customers.”

Cider Creek Bakery & Deli, at 205 Oak Hill Road in Paso Robles, is open on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on weekends from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

— Lo c a l L i c e n s e d E l e c t r i c i a n — BONDED/INSURED LIC# 1039894

RESIDENTIAL • INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL

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Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

GARY E BERLE LIVING LEGEND A LEGACY 40 YEARS AND COUNTING

By Nicholas Mattson

“THIS IS WHO HE IS. WHAT WE ARE. A LIVING LEGACY. A TRUE TESTAMENT TO THE FIRE AND

PASSION AND BELIEF IN YOUR BELLY THAT EVEN IF THE ODDS ARE AGAINST YOU… OR IF THE WINDS MAY (OR NOT BE) IN

YOUR FAVOR…YOU HAVE THE PASSION

AND DRIVE AND THE WORK ETHIC TO MAKE WHATEVER YOU WANT BECOME A REALITY.”

Gary will turn 75 this year, and with all the rain we have already gotten, the vines should be full for a great harvest in the fall and make this 40th year special. But Gary didn’t start at the top, and that has given him an appreciation for hard work and the success his team enjoys.

Gary started in a steel town outside of Pittsburgh. No dad to speak of. A tough life with a tougher mom. Gary recalls washing down the walls from the soot that used to plague the Pittsburgh skies. Going outside to get the paper from the lawn and coming back with dirty feet. It’s all he knew. And all of the friends he knew were going to work in the steel mill.

In high school, a lifeline was lowered to Gary in the form of an “All American” accolade for his work as defensive tackle on the football team and he grabbed ahold of that lifeline and what now sits on top of a small hill on the north side of CA 46 East is a monument to what happens when massive opportunity is met with massive action.

Gary and Marcy Eberle

contributed photo

he legacy of Eberle Winery stands tall among the fields of vines that extend over 40,000 nestled acres of our rolling California landscape. Eberle, facing travelers on CA 46 East is a landmark for us returning from any trip to the Central Valley that we have made it home. Behind the great gate, Gary Eberle has worked tirelessly to achieve massive goals for his namesake winery as well as the overall Paso Robles AVA. For the 6’3”, 235-pound man who played defense for Joe Paterno at Penn State, life was always about taking massive action and being a part of a great team.

Now, 40 years later which included a load of accolades and a victory over a hostile corporate takeover, Gary and his winery shall receive another award on March 2 — the esteemed Robert Mondavi Hospitality Award. Along with his high esteem for his coach at Penn State, Gary also names Mondavi as one of his coaches. With the history that Eberle Winery has written, one can say “coaches … job well done.”

Wine and vines are inseparable from the Eberle legacy, but it is Gary’s attention to a critical detail that made Eberle stand out as a brand — he learned to be in the hospitality business as much as in the wine business.

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Degrees at Penn State and LSU, awards as a National Science Fellow, and a Doctorship in Enology at UC Davis were collected as Gary began building one of the first wineries in 1973 post-prohibition Paso Robles. His Estrella River Winery was the first in San Luis Obispo County to distribute nationwide, and the first in Paso Robles to carry the Paso Robles AVA on the label — because he helped create the AVA, the first winemaker to produce a 100% Syrah in the United States. In the 90s, Wine Spectator decreed Eberle as the “Johnny Appleseed of Syrah,” and at one point nearly all of the Syrah grown in the United States was from his original cuttings.

Gary recalls Paterno pounding on the team to “be better,” and that seems to still drive him as he works to produce a record number of bottles at Eberle Winery while maintaining his exclusive estate, wine tasting at no charge, and carries the weight of being one of the finest winemakers in the United States for 40 years and counting.

When you visit Eberle, coming off the busy and fast-moving CA 46 and pass through the large gate onto the one-lane drive up the hill, a serenity sets in that has been crafted, built, protected, and defended.

When you hit the front doors to the tasting room, you are greeted by a statue of a wild boar spitting a steady and purposeful fountain of water that seems to say, “Welcome. Enjoy yourself, and be yourself.”

The boar comes from the German translation of “eber” and the name Eberle is known as brave, hardy, or strong, according to surnamedb.com. Makes sense. Keep up the good work Gary.

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

Food Pairings

Live Music

Weekly

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

Thursday & Fridays Dinner Pairings 12 – Close

Sundays 1 – 4 pm

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

Uncorked & Unplugged Series January – April Spring Swing Series Zumba, March 8

Sunday Brunch & Lunch Pairings 10:30 am – 5:30 pm St. Patrick’s Day Specials Patty’s Corned Beef Board BBQ Music & Food President’s Day Memorial Day Labor Day Independence Day Celebration

Zin Fest Weekend March 15-17

Special Events & Weddings You imagine it, we create it.

Company Retreats • Private Tastings & Tours Luncheons • Brunches Bridal Showers Baby Showers & Sprinkles • Weddings Rehearsal Dinners • Retirement Parties

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

With Event Coordinators, Executive Chef & Catering-Events anything is possible. Call us today.

WINE CLUB PICK UP PARTY! Saturday, March 23 • 6-9 pm

“Wine” is our Safe Word

eCommerce Special: 50% off Spring shipment for new members during the month of March Submit at rabblewine.com

Join us on Sunday, March 31

Maker’s Market, Paint Bar & Live Music by Complicated Animals ... and don’t miss the Zoo to You animal surprise, March 2-3 from 11 am – 3 pm

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

First Castle on the Right

Try our Augmented Reality App on your Next Bottle of Rabble Wine!

By Mark Diaz

“I get bored doing just one thing,” hether you need help designing a collapsing said Golden. “Doing handyman work dog ramp that you can stash under your bed is where I can do a lot of troubleor always wanted a two-story tall pumpkin king shooting on a lot of different things.”

Before settling down on the Cenin your front yard or could use an extra hand in whittling down that laundry list of ‘to do’ projects tral Coast, Golden served as a marine and lived overseas during his service. for your house, Brad Golden is the guy to call.

Golden said he enlisted Golden grew up in a home full of for the educational optinkerers. Raised in Illinois, Golden said portunities. Part of his that his father and grandfather were eclectic career, Golden constantly remodeling their home and worked as a graphic deas soon as he and his brother were old signer as well as creating enough to swing a hammer, they were computer animation. put to work. Their projects extended While a marine, he was beyond woodworking and carpentry stationed in Southern into rebuilding old cars, a passion of BRAD GOLDEN California where he fell his father.

Golden has carried on the family tradition of in love with that SoCal lifestyle.

Nurturing his creative streak, creating and fixing. He says some of his favorite things to do in life are to problem solve and to Golden started the Halloween Harvest Costume Ball, a party that boasts move a conceptual project into reality.

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that it’s the largest costume ball on the Central Coast. Each year, Golden creates fantastic features for the party including a life-size guillotine, a two-story pumpkin scarecrow and a Madame Leota-styled talking crystal ball like the one found in the Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion ride. He also helps his wife Jennifer with her business, The Vreamery, (creamery with a ‘V’) that crafts and sells plant-based, dairy-free cheeses in local farmers’ markets.

The unique business plans to be part of the Paso Market Walk, a 16,000-square-foot marketplace located at 1803 Spring St. Golden said that his handyman business helps to support his long term goal of designing, creating and hosting special events, but there is also a big pay off in helping people with their home projects too.

“I like being of service,” said Golden. “When you leave you know that you’ve helped somebody. That’s really a big part of it, I enjoy helping people.”

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

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March 2019

The Story of Us| 19

TEMPLETON FEED & GRAIN

STANDING TALL ON MAIN STREET

By Melissa Chavez

S

mack dab in the middle of Templeton, a 105-foot-high structure serves as an iconic reminder of the enduring character of a community.

Templeton Feed & Grain has operated through 13 U.S. presidential administrations, wars, economic upheaval, has withstood earthquakes and even a major fire.

Rod Hewitt, a 36-year member of the Templeton Fire Department, was working at his family-owned Hewitt’s Hardware store in 1979 when he heard a commotion outside.

“I laid fire hose at the hydrant in front of the hardware store at 5th and Main,” Rod said.

“We’d bought a new engine but we had no ladder trucks then. Water from our hoses just bounced off the metal roof. It burned like a fuse up the side and the grain smoldered.”

Mutual aid agencies helped fight the blaze but it took a week to fully extinguish.

The 2003 San Simeon Earthquake further tested the structure’s mettle. Today, all remains sturdy. A slight lean serves as a souvenir of the 6.6 magnitude temblor.

TEMPLETON HERITAGE OF FAMILY AND LOCAL BUSINESS

Tom Jermin Sr., who passed away in 2004, founded Templeton Feed & Grain in 1946. His son, Tom Jermin Jr. grew up in the business. Not counting a four-year Navy enlistment, Tom has worked it fulltime since 1967. Tom’s wife,

Tom Jermin

Bobbie, runs the office. They are parents to Laura, Tom, and Rick, who serves as operations manager and company vice president.

“The poured-in-place concrete portion of the building was constructed in 1912,” Tom said. “The granary is made of 2x6 Douglas fir, laid flat, and 50 tons of nails.

About half of Templeton pounded nails to get it built. At one time, there was a drivethru grocery and a dentist’s office in the corner, and in the 1920s, there was a Model B Ford garage.”

Thousands of tons of feed were manufactured in Templeton, including alfalfa meal, barley, wheat, and oats. Local farm commodities were gathered during the summer harvest for storage to last through winter. Tom recalls how they served 400 area dairies when turkey feed was a chief commodity, and plums and almonds were among the area’s top crops.

“Atascadero had a turkey processing plant on Traffic Way,” Tom said. “We supplied feed several flocks in Pozo, Parkfield, Paradise Valley, and Nipomo — that’s about 100,000 turkeys per flock. Back then, ten percent was sold through the front door and 90 percent was sold out the back. Now, it’s the opposite.”

In 2018, Tom sold 3,000 tons of product.

Surprisingly, 1,800 tons of that was rabbit feed, mostly for show rabbits (who knew?). Among his sales were 1,300 tons of barley, including 60 tons of seed barley for vineyard cover crops and erosion control, 40 tons of wheat and 28 tons of oats — all sourced through local farms.

Tom also sold 360 tons of alfalfa grown in Klamath Falls, Oregon.

Photo by Rick Evans

“We take pride in our 73 years of operation,” Tom said. “All our grain purchases with local farmers has been done on a handshake. No written contracts.”

Little is mentioned of continued sponsorship that the Jermin family provides to area FFA, youth sports, and events “Dad was private about that,” Tom said. Equally tangible are the green and white hats that match nicely with Templeton’s school colors.

“We sell 5,000 to 6,000 hats and beanies a year at cost for $6,” Tom said. Many were worn by soldiers during Operation Desert Storm and one Templeton High senior class chose them as gifts for their graduates.

Tom heard of two hat-wearers who ran into one another while visiting the Great Wall of China. Thus far, at least five locals have even been buried with their green hats as an essential part of their heavenly journeys.

Templeton Feed & Grain at 405 South Main Street in Templeton is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mon.- Fri. and 7 a.m. to Noon on Saturday. Call (805) 434 -1136.

Dinner Daily 4-9p | Lounge Fri & Sat to 11p 6005 El Camino Real, Atascadero

Inside the Historic Carlton Hotel

nauticalcowboy.com 805-461-5100

Hair / Skin / Nails

Fresh & Healthy Steak & Seafood Just the way you like it.

20 | The Story of Us

March 2019

$35 per person • Table of 8 ($245) or 10 ($315) Limited to the first 250 Reservations required • RSVP by May 7 Get more information at www.ewarbirds.org or call 805-286-5566

Vendor Fair • Vintage Tractor Display Expanded Food Court • Firestone Walker Beer Gardens Monte Mills and the Lucky Horseshoe Band All Day! Cacklefest with 6+ Vintage Front-Engine Dragsters Bounce House, Face Paint & More • Kids 12 & Under FREE

Register now for the April ride to Cambria

By Melissa Chavez

Eroica California is switching into high gear on April 5-7 when it journeys to Cambria, where riders can ride past azure seas before touring through the pastoral hillsides of Paso Robles.

I

n 2015, longtime Paso Roblan Wes Hatakeyama founded Eroica California, the Central Coast’s newest ride for which to train, invest and participate. Originated in Italy in 1997, there are now nine Eroica events worldwide. Eroica California is the only official U.S. event.

“By 2018, we welcomed over 1,200 riders from as far as New York and throughout the world, including UK, Germany, Italy, Russia, Japan, China, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, and more,” said Amedeo Polito, director of Eroica California and Italy’s Inter-

national Eroica Event Coordinator.

“This year, the Eroica festival will start on Friday. The Nova Eroica ride is on Saturday, and the Classic Eroica rides (with four route choices) will be on Sunday. You can take part in both rides if you like.”

Four Eroica Classic Day routes include the new 35-mile Piedras Blancas Route on Highway 1 with a food and drink rest stop and lighthouse tour and the 110-mile Heroic Route with stops throughout Paso Robles’ wine country. Sponsors include Linn’s of Cambria, Halter

Ranch Vineyard, Olea Farm, and Cass Winery.

“Riders commented that ‘this is the most challenging ride they have done.’ They understand our motto, ‘the beauty of fatigue and the thrill of conquest,’” said Polito. “This is a ride (non-race) where people communicate and make new friends. Everyone can enjoy a variety of food, drinks, and have time to rest, and enjoy the company of others at the rest stops without rushing. Riders find the Vintage bicycle concours to be fun and educational. It’s a unique cycling event like no other.”

The 82-mile Nova Eroica route is open to road racing and gravel bicycles.

“Many riders never knew that our area had such wonderful routes, how beautiful it was compared to other gravel rides, and the wonderful concept behind the ride,” Polito emphasized. “They enjoy real food provided at the rest stops and seeing vintage bikes at the start and finish line.

“We want people to get to know the beauty and hospitality of SLO County’s Central Coast while meeting people from all over the world,” Polito said. “Our ride is a self-challenge, but also a genuine opportunity to rediscover the roots of cycling.”

For more information, registration, sponsor and route information, visit eroicacalifornia.com

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22 | The Story of Us

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

March 2019

By Pat Pemberton

C

heck out K-Man’s athletic resume: He swam to land from Alcatraz Island.

He won the SLO Triathlon at age 45.

And just last fall — at 57 — he climbed Mount Whitney.

Impressive, right? But check out his wife’s resume: Cal Poly Athletics Hall of Famer. Qualified for Olympic trials twice. Ninth woman to cross the New York City Marathon finish line in 1987.

If you’re thinking, “This is one competitive couple,” then, ah... good call.

“We say we’re not, but we are,” Robyn admits.

And, if that wasn’t enough, their accolades go beyond sports: Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, Champion of the Community.

Just imagine what their trophy room would look like — if they had one.

“We’re not much for showing off our stuff,” Robyn said. “There’s much more to it than just the trophy — it’s the satisfaction.”

Today, much satisfaction comes from the work they do for the community — be it donating shoes to the homeless or coaching kids or raising money for teachers.

Keith — a.k.a., K-Man — grew up in Atascadero where his basketball prowess earned him a scholarship. Eventually, he transferred to Cal Poly, where he turned to cycling, first as a practical matter.

“I didn’t have access to a vehicle when I was going to Cal Poly so I decided to ride my bike to school,” said Keith, who biked from Atascadero three times a week.

Meanwhile, Robyn grew up in Orange County where she was a high school gymnast and started college at Cal State Fullerton.

“I wasn’t a good enough gymnast so I started running,” she said.

Eventually, Robyn transferred to Cal Polywhere she became a five-time All-American — three in cross country and two in track and field — as a walk-on.

“I worked my way up from the bottom of the team to the top of the team,” she said.

24 | The Story of Us

Keith and Robyn Schmidt Share athletic fire for service Her 10,000meter time in 1985 — 33 minutes and 12.86 seconds — made her a national champion and set a school record that remains unbroken.

The couple met in 1984 while Robyn was training for the U.S. Olympic qualifying race and Keith was training for a triathlon.

While Keith began his professional triathlon career the following year, Robyn finished ninth among 3,675 women and 193 out of 21,097 overall running the 1987 New York City Marathon.

Eventually, careers took over — Robyn working as a veterinarian and Keith as the manager of a bike shop for a decade before they opened K-Man Cyclery, which now has shops in Atascadero and Paso Robles. And with that shift came a realization: “I spent most of my life being a selfish triathlete,” Keith said, “thinking about nobody but myself.”

The fire that drove their athletic endeavors soon led to community activities: coaching swimming, after-school bike programs, coaching track and cross country programs, basketball referee, directing the Hares N Hounds 5K — and much more. Once they donated 50 pairs of shoes to a local homeless shelter.

“I hate to see people suffering,” said Robyn, who works at Woods Humane Society. “Most of the people there are trying to get back on the right track.”

Standing in their Atascadero shop, a sign

reads, “Free Hugs” as music by Elton John, the Bee Gees and Journey emits from a stereo. If you haven’t been inside the shop, chances are you’ve seen their Superman-inspired logo, which was created by a shop regular who was then a high school graphic arts student.

The shop gets requests for K-Man stickers nationwide.

“There’s a lot of people nicknamed K-Man,” Robyn explained.

While volunteering takes up much of their time, the competitive fire remains.

“She can still shred on a trampoline at 59 years old,” Keith said.

Robyn’s 5-foot-2 frame is a stark contrast to Keith’s 6-foot-4. But both are still fit. Which is why Keith — a novice hiker — could climb Mt. Whitney, elevation, 15,500 feet.

“A buddy invited me, said, ‘I have an extra pass to Climb Mt. Whitney — wanna go?’” Keith remembered. “I said, ‘Whoa, whoa, whoa — I don’t really hike.’”

Yet, he did.

“Like Alcatraz, I can’t say it was fun, but at least I can tell people I did it.”

Today, two managers handle most of the shop business, leaving the Schmidts more time with their kids, aged 15 and 20, and the kids of the community.

“You know, they say it takes a village to raise a child,” Robyn said. “We feel like we’re part of that village, raising lots of other children, and that village is also part of us, raising our own children.”

March 2019

km an cy cle

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March 2019

The Story of Us| 25

Over the River and Through the Woods A Heartwarming Comedy

W

ine Country Theatre, of Paso Robles, will present a loveable comedy that explores family and the manyways we stay connected in the upcoming production of OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

by Joe DiPietro. Performances run from Friday, March 22, through Sunday, April 7, at the Park Street Ballroom in Paso Robles.

The comedy focuses on Nick, a young Italian-American, and his adoring (and annoying) four grandparents. Every Sunday he goes “over the river”, meaning the Hudson river, to “grandmother’s house” in Hoboken, New Jersey for a big Italian dinner. The long-held tradition is disrupted when Nick announces a job change. His grandparents, eager to keep him close by, hatch a scheme to persuade him to

26 | The Story of Us

stay. Nick faces the questions, “How much do you owe those who care for you? How much is enough? How does one combine obligations to family with the pursuit of personal dreams?”.

Director Kristen Saunders (who directed last year’s successful musical, Gypsy) chose this play because “Our audiences love a great comedy, actors love well-written characters, and this play offers both. Over the River and Through the Woods is an endearing look at the generation gap and trying to keep loved ones close.

It’s something we can all relate to and also delivers on its laughs!”

Wine Country Theatre continuously brings new talent to their stage, and three actors make their Wine Country Theatre debut, although they have been performing for decades in television, film and on stage. Dori Duke plays

Aida, the grandma that cooks with love. Her husband Frank, an Italian from the old country, is played by Bill Jackson. Greg DeMartini plays Nick, who gets stuck between a well-meaning family and a well-paying job. The three other actors returning to the Wine Country Theatre stage are Tracy Mayfield playing Nunzio, the loving grandpa with a secret, Cynthia Anthony as Emma, the loud grandma with a big heart, and Haley Przybyla plays Caitlyn, a young woman who attends one of the Sunday dinners, to much hilarity.

Shows are on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30pm, and Sunday matinees at 2 pm at the Park Ballroom in downtown Paso Robles. Wine, snacks and desserts are available for purchase; generous table seating allows refreshments to be enjoyed during the show. Tickets are $25 general public; $20 for groups of 8+; $15 student.

For ticket information go to winecountrytheatre.com or My805tix.com.

March 2019

North SLO County Activity & Events Guide |

no SLO c o

N o r t h • S a n Lu i s O b i s p o • County

• Special Events

Entertainment • Fundraisers • Community • Service • Government

March 3 — Symphony of the Vines presents "Harp Chamber Music" with Catherine Litaker on harp; Carol Houchens, flute; Michael Whitson, viola; and Hilary Clark, cello, 4 - 5:30 p.m.

Pear Valley Estate Wine, 4900 Union Rd, Paso Robles. Tickets are $15 - $30, students K-12 are free with a paid adult. symphonyofthevines.org March 29-31 — San Luis Obispo County Cattlemen's Association presents the 29th Annual Cattlemen's Western Art Show and Sale at the Paso Robles Event Center. Free show admission. BBQ lunch, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm both days for $10. Evening artist reception Friday 5 to 9 pm, $20 at the door. Featured artist Vicki Catapano. cattlemenswesternartshow.com March 24 — Come enjoy "Mendelssohn in Scotland" at the San Miguel Mission. Presented by Symphony of the Vines, this full orchestra concert begins at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 - $30, students K-12 are free with a paid adult. symphonyofthevines.org

April 6 — Wild Wild West Casino Night to benefit the Paso Robles Youth Sports Council. Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson, Paso Robles. Doors open at 6 p.m., casino gaming 6:30, dinner until 8, silent auction until 9. $45 ticket includes tri-tip dinner, two drinks, a bingo ticket and $100 in gaming chips. PRYSC supports sports organizations and improves sports playing fields. prysc.org April 13 — The Creston Garden Club Annual Plant and Bake Sale. Local nurseries and growers donate plants, trees, and vegetable starts. This is the principle fundraiser for the support and maintenance of the Creston Garden. Baked goods are homemade pies, cookies, and things for your “sweet tooth”.

We are open from 8 a.m. until noon. Come early if you want a pie as they go fast. We are located in the village of Creston just pass the Rodeo Grounds on Hwy 229.

May 4 - 5 — 3 Speckled Hens Old Stuff Show. Paso Robles Event Center, 150 Vintage and Antique Dealers. General, Early Bird and Super Early Bird tickets available on March 15. threespeckledhens.com

Submit listings or corrections at nosloco.com/submit-listing by the 5th of the month. Visit nosloco.com for more info & events.

Events listed are both free and paid. All entries are published based on our editorial standards. Only paid entries can be guaranteed.

Wellness Kitchen Returns to Templeton Location

By Millie Drum

After a temporary displacement to Atascadero due to a fire on October 21, The Wellness Kitchen and Resource Center re-opens in its Templeton location on March 1. Since December 3, the meal programs continued thanks to the use of the commercial kitchen at the Atascadero Bible Church; Fig at Courtney’s House for distribution; Idler’s in Paso Robles for hosting the monthly cook-

ing classes; and the Dusi Family for hosting the administration team at their warehouse.

Executive Director Gina Grieb says, “Thanks to our dedicated board of directors, staff, volunteers, donors, in-kind sponsors, media and patrons; together as a community have made it possible for us to get our commercial kitchen ready for daily operation.

Without this support, we wouldn’t have been able to resume our Heal-

ing and Wellness Food programs and cooking classes.”

GRAND RE-OPENING WEEK The week of March 11 through March 15 is dedicated to welcoming the community back to The Wellness Kitchen and showing appreciation for the outpouring of support. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., samples of healing tea will be served, deli lunches will be available for purchase, along with ordering wellness/healing foods and

sign-ups for cooking classes.

“It takes a community to make a difference in those we serve,” Grieb said. “The Wellness Kitchen couldn’t operate and serve our patrons without you. Thank you!”

For more information on meal programs, education and events, go to thewkrc. org, call 805-434-1800 or better yet, visit 1255 Las Tablas Road in Templeton.

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March 2019

The Story of Us | 27

By Millie Drum

29 th

The Annual Cattlemen’s Western Art Show and Sale returns to the Paso Robles Event Center from March 29 to 31.

In 1990, the Cattlemen’s Western Art Show got a modest start at the old Cooper Ranch outside of Paso Robles. Three artists gathered with a spouse and a cowboy. Artists Larry Bees and wife Jackie, Ernie Morris, Susanne Williams and cowboy Gary

Williams. They decided there was a need for a Western art show on the Central Coast. Thanks to the San Luis Obispo Cattlemen’s Association, the show was established in 1990. It has become nationally recognized, drawing artists and art collectors from all over the Western states. This year, the featured artist is Vicki Catapano. She’s one of the West’s most respected and collectable realists and attended Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo.

Whether you’re a serious or novice collector or just enjoy original paintings, prints and sculpture, this show offers something for everyone. Being one of the only shows of its type on the Central Coast, this is a unique chance to meet the artists; step into their world of creativity and hear the stories behind their art. Over 400 new works in acrylics, oils, pencils, pastels, scratchboard and sculptures of Western themes will be on

display and available for purchase.

If an original piece is outside your budget, a reproduction may be available.

The evening artist reception is Friday, March 29 from 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets for $20 includes hors d’oeuvres, wine tasting and no-host bar. The free show and sale runs from Saturday through Sunday, March 30 and 31. A Cattlemen’s BBQ lunch is available both days from 11:30 to 1:30 for $10.

For more information, go to cattlemenswestern artshow.com This year’s featured artist is Vicki Catapano.

Her works (shown here), will be on display and for sale, along with over 400 new works by many other talented artists.

THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION PRESENTS THE 29th ANNUAL

Cattlemen’s Western Art Show & Sale Friday, Saturday & Sunday MARCH 29-31 Paso Robles Event Center Free Admission

Featured Artist Vicki Catapano

The Guiding Hand

ARTIST EVENING RECEPTION, FRIDAY - 5 TO 9 - $20 at the door SATURDAY 10-5 SUNDAY 10-3 Cattlemen’s BBQ lunch for $10 from 11:30 to 1:30 BOTH DAYS cattlemenswesternartshow.com

28 | The Story of Us

March 2019

North SLO County Activity & Events Guide | At

the

Libarary

Atascadero Library 6555 Capistrano, Atascadero • 805-461-6161 Special Events Ongoing Programs Tuesday & Wednesday — 10:30 a.m., Preschool Story time for 1-5 year olds Friday — 10:30 a.m., Toddler Story time for 1-3 year olds 1st Tuesday — 11 a.m.

Lego Club 1st Saturday — 2 p.m., Family Movies 1st Tuesday — 11 a.m., Gems in the Stacks Book Group 3rd Thursday — 2:30 p.m., Mixed Minds Book Group 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 For Adults: • Tax Preparation Assistance by appointment only, Saturdays March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30;

call the Library at 805.237.3870 to schedule an appointment • Make It @ the Library! Felt Appliqué, Saturday, March 2, 10:30-12:30 pm • Drop In and Color! Celtic Designs, Thursday, March 14, 6-8 pm • The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah book discussion, Thursday, March 21, 7-8 pm • Learn to Knit or Crochet! Saturday, March 23, 10:30-noon • Tabletop Game Day, Saturday, March 23, 1-4 pm For Children: • Story Times, check online calendar for days and times • Dr. Seuss Day, Monday March 1, 2-5 pm • Lego Build, Monday, March 11, 4-5 pm.

• Family Game Day, Friday March 15. 3-5 pm.

• Spring Drop-In Craft, Tuesday, March 19, 3-4 pm.

• Maker Monday series — Optical Illusion Spinning Tops! Monday, March 25, 4-5 pm For Teens: • Teen Tech Week — Exploring Circuits, Tuesday, March 5, 4-5 pm For more information about classes or events, including age requirements, or to sign up for them, visit prcity.com/246/Classes-Events.

The Paso Robles City Library is located at

1000 Spring Street and is open Monday – Friday 10-8, and Saturday 10-5. For more information on library programs and events, please call 237-3870 or visit prcity.com/library Creston Library 6290 Adams, Creston • 805-237-3010 Friday, February 1 — Valentine Card Making, 1 p.m.

Thursday & Friday, February 7-8 — Sugar Cookie Decorating & Heart Pencil Craft, 2 p.m.

San Miguel Library 254 13th St, San Miguel • 805-467-3224 Saturday, February 9 — Movie & Craft Saturday Wednesday, February 13 — Mexican Tin Art Craft, 2 p.m.

Santa Margarita Library 9630 Murphy Ave, Santa Margarita • 805438-5622 Saturday, February 2 — Young People’s Reading Round Table, 4 to 5:30 p.m., open to 12 to 16 year olds Saturday, February 23 — Coding with Matt Shandon Library 195 N 2nd St, Shandon • 805-237-3009 Call for info

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 — Thursdays, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Paso Robles Assn. of Realtors, 1101 Riverside Ave.

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.

Key Club — every Wednesday, 11:55 a.m.

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 & 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. • 805434-1071 Meeting — first and third Thursday, 7 p.m.

Loyal Order of Moose Atascadero #2067 • 8507 El Camino Real • 805-466-5121

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. • 805239-0503 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 Rotary — 1103 Spring St. Meeting — Thursdays at noon at Paso Robles Inn. pasoroblesrotary.org Paso Robles Sunrise — 1900 Golden Hill Rd. Meeting — every Wednesday, 7 a.m. at Culinary Arts Academy. pasoroblessunriserotary.org Templeton — 416 Main St. Meeting — first & third Tuesday, 7 a.m. at McPhee’s Grill

Business Networking North County Toast ‘N Talk Toastmasters — Mondays, 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

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. to 1 p.m., $5 Pancake Breakfast — third Saturday, 8 to 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 • 805-239-1411 Lodge Meeting — first and third Wednesdays El Paso de Robles Grange #555 • 627 Creston Rd. • 805-239-4100 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

March 2019

The Story of Us | 29

| North SLO County Activity & Events Guide Chambers

of

Commerce

Atascadero Chamber of Commerce atascaderochamber.org • 805-466-2044 6907 El Camino Real, Suite A, Atascadero, CA 93422 Leaders Lunch — Friday, March 1, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Build relationships with other leaders in the community while enjoying a catered lunch, and a talk from one our region’s leaders. Member: $25, Non-Member: $35.

Business Mixer: Parents For Joy — Thursday, March 21, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by Sunset Honda Service Center.

Good Morning Atascadero — Friday, March 22, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. at Galaxy Theatres, 6917 El Camino Real, Suite I, Atascadero,

Clubs

and

CA 93422. Catch up on the latest news that you need to know for your business. Join us for a variety of speakers, mimosas, and light breakfast. Members: $15, Prospective Members: $20.

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 Chamber 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 Membership Mixer — Wednesday, March 13. Community West Bank, 541 Spring Street Paso Robles. 5:30 p.m.

Wake Up Paso — Wednesday, March 27 at Paso Robles Inn Ballroom, 1103 Spring Street, Paso Robles; breakfast at 7:30 a.m., program at 8 a.m.; members $22, general admission $28 Templeton Chamber of Commerce templetonchamber.com • 805-434-1789 321 S. Main Street #C, Templeton, CA 93465

805-296-1935 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 — General Membership Meeting and Luncheon: Wednesday, April 3 The Groves on the 41, 4455 Hwy 41 East, Paso Robles from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $30; must RSVP by 3-24. Visit northcountynewcomers.org 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. 805-434-4909 North County Wines and Steins — first Friday of the month (Jan-May; Aug-Nov), 6 p.m. at Templeton American Legion Hall, 805 Main St. Meetings include wine and beer tasting,

speaker or program and potluck. winesandsteins.org, 805-235-2048 Central Coast Violet Society — second Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Creston Village Activity Room, 1919 Creston Road, Paso Robles.

Email Znailady1@aol.com with any questions.

Golden State Classic Car Club — first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Paso Robles Elks Lodge, 1420 Park St., Paso Robles. goldenstateclassics.org Classic Car Cruise Night — second Saturday (weather permitting), 5 to 7 p.m. at King Oil Tools, 2235 Spring St., Paso Robles. Contact Tony Ororato, 805-712-0551 Daughters of the American Revolution — first Sunday. For time and place, email dmcpatriotdaughter@gmail.com Atascadero Republican Women Federated 4th Tuesday at 11 at Atascadero SpringHill Suites Marriott atascaderorepublicanwomenfederated.com Paso Robles Republican Women Federated 3rd Monday at 11:30 a.m. at Paso Robles Inn Ballroom. Reservations required. prrwf.org

flavor foods using fat/acid/salt/sweet. Class is free for those individuals dealing with illness through our Pay It Forward Education Program. Friends and caregivers are welcome to join the class for a suggested love offering of $20, however no one will be turned away for lack of funds. RSVP required 805-434-1800 or evan@TheWKRC.org. Taught by Evan Vossler.

Cancer Support Community 1051 Las Tablas Road, Templeton • 805-238-4411 Open Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to provide support, education and hope.

Cancer Support Helpline: 1-888-793-9355, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PST. Visit cscslo.org for description of support groups, social events, education and kid’s programs.

Living With Cancer Support Group — 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 10am –11am. Facilitated by Jamie Dunn, LMFT & Katie Boucher, AMFT. Contact Jamie: 805-238-4411.

Caregiver Support Group — 4th Wednesdays - concurrent with patient group in a separate room. 10am –11am. Facilitated by Jamie Dunn, LMFT & Katie Boucher, AMFT Contact Jamie: 805-238-4411.

Breast Cancer Group - Templeton — Last Thursday of each month, 11am-12pm Facilitated by Lindsey Levenson, LMFT, 2-time breast cancer survivor. Contact Jamie: 805238-4411.

Mindfulness Hour — with Katie Boucher, AMFT. Last Wednesday. 11:30am - 12:30pm Learn to practice the concepts of mindfulness, distress tolerance and emotional regulation. Open to patients & caregivers. Space is limited. RSVP Required.

Therapeutic Yoga — Mondays, 11:30am– 12:45pm with Sue Larson. Therapeutic yoga designed for cancer patients. Poses can be modified to accommodate various needs and abilities. All levels welcome. Held at Dharma Yoga (1329 Spring St., Paso Robles).

Meetings

Almond Country Quilt Guild — Guild Challenge, Trash (Stash) to Treasurers. General Meeting: Friday, March 4 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 6:30-9 p.m.; Community Quilts: Saturday, March 16 at Bethel Lutheran Church, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Coffee with a CHP — second Tuesday, 8:30 a.m., Nature’s Touch Nursery & Harvest, 225 Main St., Templeton.

Exchange Club — second Tuesday, 12:151:30 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 Estrella Warbirds Museum — first Wednesday, 6 p.m., guest speakers.

Health & Wellness Wellness Kitchen and Resource Center Visit thewkrc.org, 805-434-1800 for information on Healing and Wellness Foods meal programs, volunteer opportunities, and classes.

The Wellness Kitchen and Resource Center Grand Re-opening Appreciation Week, March 11 - 14, 10 am to 4 pm. Samples of healing tea, deli lunches available for purchase, order wellness/healing foods, sign up for cooking classes. The Wellness Kitchen re-opens March 1 after operating in a temporary location.

Healthy Cooking Class: Portable Snacks Thursday March 14th 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Idlers in Paso Robles & Friday March 15th 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Idlers in San Luis Obispo.

Designed especially for individuals facing a life-altering disease. Learn how to prepare nutrient-dense foods with the intent to create the "most inhospitable environment" so disease does not have the opportunity to grow. 3-Recipes and lessons are both therapy supporting and delicious. Learn how to

30 | The Story of Us

March 2019

Commission Celebrates Exemplary Women

6th Annual Women’s Wall of Fame Luncheon set for March 9

Madonna Inn will fill with apprecation for women in San Luis Obispo County as the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) host the 6th annual Women’s Wall of Fame Luncheon to celebrate this year’s awardees.

Keynote speaker Delaine Eastin will provide inspiration through her experience as the first and only woman elected as California State Superintendent of Public Instruction (1995-2003).

The CSW is commission of women appointed by the County of San Luis Obispo Board of Supervisors to advocate for women and girls and inform the Board of Supervisors of unmet needs in the county.

Women named to the wall of fame were nominated from organizations and individuals throughout San Luis Obispo County who embodied exemplary service to better the lives of others throughout the year. All nominees will be recognized at the luncheon.

Photos of the top three nominees will be placed on the Women’s Wall of Fame in the County Government Building. Their names and year of the award will be inscribed on a permanent plaque next to the Wall of Fame.

The 5th annual Women’s Wall of Fame nominees included our North SLO County’s own Elena Twisselman Clark, Nancy Fiske, Maria Elena Garcia, Liz Lee, Ashley Aiello, Amanda Gonzalez, Janet Morales, and Julia Boyce.

The luncheon will take place at Madonna Inn on Saturday, March 9 from noon to 2 p.m. Go to slowomen.org for info.

6th Annual

March 9 Madonna Inn Noon - 2 pm slowomen.org

The Hope Chest Emporium

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

March 2019

The Story of Us | 31

Bud and Avis Idler

Jennifer and Don Idler

By Mark Diaz

THE FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED HOME STORE HAS CONTINUED WHAT BUD STARTED

W

hat started out as a way to make money while going to college evolved into an iconic feature on the Central Coast landscape. Idler’s Home first began in 1954 when W. C. “Bud” Idler purchased the appliance store where he worked from his boss.

A World War II veteran, Bud moved from Montana with his wife Avis in the 1950s to study poultry science at Cal Poly. Bud purchased the store and renamed it Idler’s Appliance and the whole family worked the business.

“Everybody in the family worked there,” Jennifer idler said. “Grandma Avis, brothers and sisters, everybody. My dad’s two older sisters worked in the office and helped sales.

Brothers worked in the warehouse and delivered appliances.”

Bud and Avis’ son, Don, took over the company in the ‘70s and continues to head the business with his wife Janis. Their children, Jennifer and Bryan didn't start with intentions of joining the company. Their parents did not pressure them to work the family-owned business but respected their decisions to seek their own paths, which eventually led them back home.

Jennifer works as the human resources manager and special events manager, and Bryan manages the San Luis Obispo location.

A lot has changed over the past 65 years for the company but a lot has remained the same.

With the induction of chain stores coming to

32 | The Story of Us

Third from left Kaeleigh, Jennifer, Bryan, Don

the San Luis Obispo County, the company found that adaptation, evolution and flexibility are essential components that keep them thriving. Initially, the focus of the business was repair but to remain contemporary, the company branched out into different indoor and outdoor home furnishing items.

During the Great Recession, the company started promoting “Scratch and Dent” appliances or “blems,” (short for blemish) that would attract customers looking to replace big-ticket items while on a budget. In 2014, Idlers dropped ‘Appliance’ and replaced it with ‘Home’ and also created a new logo. The goal of the rebranding was to demonstrate the diversity of products the business offers.

Another innovation Idlers embraced is the Culinary Throwdown event co-hosted by The Cork Dorks from The Krush 92.5 where local chefs faceoff at Idler’s locations. These events are open to the public and have been received with enthusiasm. The culinary collisions are sponsored in part by KitchenAid and Whirlpool.

“That’s been something that was really new for us,” Moss said, “having your radio personnel coming into your kitchen and then it’s also on Facebook live.”

Moss explained the complexity of the event

operating on two different mediums and essentially reaching two different demographics — radio listeners and those who watch live streams on Facebook.

One thing that has not changed is the culture of the business which is based on teamwork and customer service. One way the company achieves better customer service is through education about their products. Jennifer explained that a solid relationship with companies that provide the sales items gives the idlers sales team an edge above the competition.

“Our vendors come in weekly,” Jennifer said. “That is something that Home Depot and Lowe’s don’t have. We have really close relationships with our vendors.”

“They [vendors] work with our customers too,” Marketing Director Kaeleigh Moss said. “They actually come in and they will talk with our customers and help us. You don’t see that with a lot of vendors, where they are invested in us.”

One of the biggest hurdles Jennifer said the company faces is the public’s assumption that big box stores will always beat the pricing of family-run businesses.

“That’s our hardest challenge,” Jennifer said. “People don’t know that we are the same price. People think that we are more expensive. We’re the same price, but we really focus on being better in quality when it comes to customer service.”

Although the ability to instantly compare costs online has helped to diminish the misconception, Jennifer said it is still surprising how many people believe that Idler’s products are not competitively priced.

We’d like you to go see for yourself in the store or online. Tell them we sent you and let their team do the rest. Don’t forget to tell Don we said hi!

March 2019

APPLIANCE CENTER

SLEEP CENTER

OUTDOOR LIVING

KITCHEN DESIGN

FURNITURE CENTER

SLO County Arts Education Partnerships James J. Brescia Ed.D.

County Superintendent of Schools

O

ur county is fortunate to have growing arts partnerships for many of our schools. Four wonderful organizations supporting students in all North County schools are Opera San Luis Obispo, Vina Robles Amphitheater, Symphony of the Vines, and Studios on the Park in Paso Robles. These arts organizations are partnering with the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education in support of arts outreach. The partnerships are designed to encourage the arts by providing opportunities for students to experience and participate in the arts with professional artists in professional settings. We hope that our arts nonprofits stoke

“ There is no half-singing in the shower ; you are either a rock star or an opera diva.”

Josh Groban

the embers of San Luis Obispo County’s creative spirit by working with our schools.

According to the most recent Arts and Economic Prosperity Survey, San Luis Obispo County arts and arts-related activities enhance our local economy with approximately 27 million in funding and expenditures. The arts is one of the most popular Career & Technical Education pathways selected by San Luis Obispo County students, and the Central Coast Economic Forecast refers to the positive impact the arts have on our local economy. Our county is also growing in cultural and artistic vibrancy because of the dedicated individuals who make the Central Coast their home.

The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education Arts Partnership along with Opera San Luis Obispo and Vina Robles is currently planning an evening event in May for students, families and the community. To date, this partnership has afforded more than 6,000 North County students the opportunity to experience and work with professional artists in a professional venue. Funds for the event are provided by Mary Bianco, David Burt, Virginia Severa, the Moca Foundation, the Paso Robles Education Alliance, and the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education.

A partnership with Symphony of the Vines is providing complimentary admittance to students for the North

County concerts, opportunities to meet the performers, and classroom outreach activities. Studios on the Park in Paso Robles is working with the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education on plans to provide display space for all North County schools throughout the 2019-2020 school year. Local arts organizations support students in the arts by building a sense of community, communication skills, collaboration skills, public speaking experience, empathy, and compassion.

It is an honor to serve as your county superintendent and I hope that this article will spark discussion among all educational stakeholders about the power of becoming involved in arts outreach as a volunteer, patron or participant.

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 34 | The Story of Us

March 2019

PASO R OBLES C ITY C OUNCIL R EPORT

By Mark Diaz

he Paso Robles City Council hit the ground running in the new year. The public sat in meetings that surpassed three hours while the council members dis-

cussed major topics that included the potential of becoming a charter city, changing voting procedures and the long-awaited vote on the short-term rentals ordinance.

The City also made a proclamation to honor Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his leadership in the civil rights movement. Rev. King preached the importance of nonviolence during protests and

King Jr. Day as a federal holiday in 1983. The holiday is observed on the third Monday in January.

The City’s proclamation read in part, “Whereas, with profound faith in our nation’s promise, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led a nonviolent movement that urged our country’s leaders to expand the reach of freedom and provide equal opportunity for all, promoting the

An ongoing topic that faces the City Council is determining a voting alternative that presents fair representation for minority voters.

Lovella Walker, Chair of Paso Robles’ 2019 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, spoke during the City’s proclamation to honor Reverend King for his leadership in the civil rights movement.

civil disobedience while striving to change social, political and legislative norms of racial segregation and prejudice. On April 4, 1968, King joined in martyrdom the more than 40 murdered black and white men, women and children who lost their lives during the tumultuous time.

Former President Ronald Reagan signed into law Martin Luther

belief at the heart of our country’s founding: that humble citizens, armed with little but faith, can come together to change the world and remake an America that more closely aligns with our highest ideals.”

In the summer of 2018, the City was challenged by a letter that proclaimed the City’s voting procedures suppressed the representation

of minorities, namely Latinos that comprise approximately one-third of the town’s populace.

The Council continues to seek recommendations on different types of voting methods that if adopted, in time, might forestall the City from being sued. In January, the board listened to a presentation by Michael Latner, Cal Poly political science associate professor, that detailed various ways of counting ballots.

Latner recommended that ranked choice voting system that allows a voter to designate and prioritize multiple choices on their ballot.

“In my view,” said Latner, “a simple solution and effective solution is ranked choice voting … I would strongly urge you to adopt rank choice voting. ” For more information on the process and progress of voting options, visit prcity.com/770/By-District-City-Council-Elections.

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P LAYING WITH L IGHT AND S OUND

CALSUN Solar Owner Chad Stern Harmonizes Work and Home Life

By Mark Diaz

O

wner of CalSun Electric and Solar Systems Inc., Chad Stern, started his business to bring solar power to his community but that dream plays second fiddle to his first love, writing and creating music.

Stern grew up surrounded by musical talent. Each member of his family either strummed a guitar, tickled piano keys or used their voice in song. Much like the environment he was raised in, Stern makes sure there are plenty of instruments around his house for his children to experiment with. He said kids naturally gravitate toward making music. His 8-year-old

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“[Music]’s what I went to school for, and that’s what I love to do,” Stern said. “It keeps my sanity in check.” daughter loves the trumpet, something he would never have known if she did not have the opportunity to fiddle with one.

“We have four kids,” Stern said.

“I have every instrument I can think of just sitting around and they pick and choose what they want to do.”

Stern continues to pursue his musical career as a contemporary solo pianist while running CalSun. He is set to release his second album later this year. He said that his records tend to do better in China

than in the United States.

Almost ten years ago when he was starting his business, solar power had not gained the popularity or ease of purchasing that it has reached in 2019. To help boost business, Stern said he fell back on his electrical experience but maintained his desire to bring solar power to as many people as he could.

In the past, people interested in solar would lease the equipment but Stern says in today’s green energy market more people are opt-

ing to buy the system by taking advantage of programs such as PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) or low-interest solar loans through credit unions.

Stern said that CalSun keeps its pricing competitive by minimizing the company’s overhead but also said that owning a small business does not leave a wide margin of error.

“We have to work a little harder,” Stern said. “I have to make sure that things are balanced as far as overhead and income. As a small business, we have to make sure that every single one of our customers is taken care of to the best of our ability; 100 percent.”

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

March 2019, Paso Robles Magazine

pasomagazine.com | 37

B UILDING A H OME

Tahoe Transplant Don Harley Embraces Paso Robles Life

By Mark Diaz

fter 35 years in snow county, Don Harley, owner of HDH Construction, decided it was time to move to a more temperate climate. As an avid skier, Harley is not one to shy away from the cold but wanted to move somewhere with a small-town feel, something that he says Lake Tahoe has lost.

“Tahoe was getting really crowded,” Harley said. “This Airbnb thing has really changed the world up there and I was getting tired of it even though I was working and getting good jobs.”

A year ago, he decided to move from Lake Tahoe’s north shore to the Central Coast.

Familiar with the area from visiting it throughout the years, he purchased an acre lot, set up shop and scratched out a bucket list item.

“I always said that if I could move anywhere,” Harley said, “I was going to go somewhere I could grow stuff.” He explained that the short seasons were a hindrance to his agricultural ambitions.

The general contractor discovered he also possesses a green thumb. “Now,” Harley said, “I’m growing tomatoes, cucumbers, cantaloupes, peaches and nectarines and grapes and all kinds of good stuff.”

Apart from his garden, Harley put in a golf green to practice his chipping. Last July he shot a 79, but says that he has not been able to get close to that since. Although he does not get a chance to golf as much as he would like, once a month he participates in a tournament in the San Jose and Bay area with some buddies of his.

Currently, HDH focuses on small projects such as bathroom remodels and decks. With San Luis Obispo County’s unemployment rate floating around three percent in the county, Harley has found it difficult to find an experienced crew to take on larger projects. He also recognizes that moving from a profitable area that held a secure network grid for his company to a place where he knows virtually no one was a huge leap and it will take time to build his business.

“I don’t’ typically look back once I decide on something,” Harley said, “I’m just moving forward. This is the life I’ve chosen, now I’m making the most of it.”

Publisher’s note: We feel honored to be one of the first places Don looked to to get integrated into the community. Paso Robles Magazine continues to connect the community, and we are proud to introduce him and say it is our impression that Don and his dog are welcome new Roblans.

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Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

March 2019, Paso Robles Magazine

pasomagazine.com | 39

Quality Set In Stone

By Millie Drum

B

ranon Whitaker has been in the stone and tile care industry for 17 years. What began as a summer job with a restoration company has resulted in his own company, Rock Solid Stone Care, that is incredibly rewarding because of the reaction he receives from his clients. “I spent that summer learning the ropes on how to treat each stone and have been hooked ever since. There is always something new to learn and new methods being introduced which keeps things exciting,” says Branon.

Branon and his highly skilled technicians use the most advanced stone restoration techniques. Services include cleaning, sealing, refinishing,

40 | pasomagazine.com

polishing and color enhancement of natural stone; stain, scratch and crack repair, tile cleaning, sealing, repair and replacement; grout restoration, cleaning and sealing; and pressure washing and sealing of exterior stone, pavers and tile. Surfaces include flooring, showers, countertops, tables, walls,

staircases and more in marble, granite, tile, limestone, slate and saltillo.

“Every job is unique. No two pieces of stone are the same.

How each surface needs to be repaired presents its own challenges.

Restoring them to their original look or altering them for an updated look really changes how my customers view their surfaces. It’s so rewarding to see their excitement when I’m done,” says Branon.

One of his favorite projects is the restoration of an outdoor marble art piece in Santa Barbara. The artist, Pavel Kraus, spent 10 years creating the work of art. He was on

hand to oversee the restoration that took a full week to complete. “Being able to bring new life into his work, which was in desperate need of repair, was an amazing accomplishment for us,” says Branon.

Along with residential projects, prestigious commercial clients include The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco, Ventana Big Sur, and Niner Wine Estates in Paso Robles. To restore and preserve a significant investment in your property, call 408-335-5553, 805-296-3861 or click branon@ rocksolidstonecare.com and Rock SolidStoneCare.com.

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

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pasomagazine.com | 41

PRESERVING AMERICA’S PAST American Barn and Wood Repurpose Midwest Heritage

By Mark Diaz

hen it comes to barns, there may be no truer phrase than “they don’t make them like they used to.” It is also something John and Kira Olshefski have taken to heart.

Several years ago, the Olshefskis stumbled upon the unique business of reclaiming wood from Midwest barns and saving of part of the United States’ heritage along with it Initially, they had planned on purchasing a barn from the Midwest and reconstructing it on their property. Instead, they found themselves selling the lumber from half a barn in an attempt to recoup their losses when a ‘dismantler’ skipped town with their money and only half the job done. The wood sold so well that John and Kira decided to create American Barn and Wood located at 3460 La Cruz Way, Paso Robles.

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These centenarian structures are comprised of the ‘old growth wood’ that grew untouched in the lands of North America. Some of the lumber can only be found in barns. For example, the American Chestnut is extinct in the wild due to a blight brought over from the Old World. The magnificent trees that would reach heights of 100 feet now longer adorn the American landscape.

California barns are generally made of dug fir and redwood. Midwest barns are constructed of a vast variety of American woods; maple, cherry, chestnut, the list goes on. Basically, whatever trees were on the property when the farmer settled the land.

These trees that were hewed and smoothed by hand were essential in the survival of the first years of a family farm. John explained that people would build their barn and live in them with the animals while they built their homes.

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The Olshefskis make sure to preserve the heritage of the barns they reclaim. They draft flyers that describe the history of the structure that goes with the wood purchased. The lumber from each barn is unique due to a host of conditions, weather, soil, latitude as well as the type of wood used. Each barn tells a story of its constructors, occupants and lifestyles. The boards speak of harvest festivals, stolen kisses and initials carved into their bones that seem to whisper as you are, I was.

“We have a historian to research the barns,” said Kira, “and whatever she finds, we write up a story that goes with it.”

It is evident that both John and Kira love what they do for a living. They enjoy meeting and talking to their various customers as much as helping them fulfill their dreams of that perfect fireplace mantel, farm table or rebuilding a home lost to fire.

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42 | pasomagazine.com

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

LOCAL GOODS REPORT

from

General Store Paso Robles

ith both Christmas and Valentine’s Day behind us (the two most popular dates for popping the question), wedding planning is hitting its full momentum. We love helping people pull together unique and thoughtful gifts, for either the newly married couple, or the friends and family who celebrate the day with them.

More and more, people are looking away from registries and towards something specifically local. In fact, in a survey conducted by WeddingWire.com, more than 20% of couples added local elements to their weddings based on where the couple met or grew up.

Here are some of the tried and true goodies at General Store that fit the bill, (and won’t end up being the dusty thing in the box that wouldn’t make the cut if you were on that tidying show on Netflix!)

Cheers Paso Floursack Towel (or one of our other custom-made tea towels) WIth the average age of newlyweds at 31, many people have already collected the appliances, dishes, etc. that they’ll need for a life together. Paired with a cookbook = win.

A hearty stack of local seasonings and spices We’ve had many couples give Paso Salt or Paso Herbs as wedding favors. They’re easy to use and transport (important if people are flying.)

Paso Pint, Wine or Rocks Glasses These are a happy reminder of the day every time you open that bottle of Paso wine/beer/hooch.

Coffee for Two People love to grab a pound of Spearhead coffee beans to pair with two of our made-just-for-us mugs.

Blithe or Lavender Traveler Candle Maybe our most popular favor, this small little tin is filled with the most beautiful, 100% soy candle, made here in town and only for General Store. Won’t break in a suitcase, and makes hotel rooms feel a little more like home.

Or, you could just give some words of wisdom. We had a charming woman in last month who was about to celebrate her fiftieth wedding anniversary. When asked what advice she’d give to couples, she had her answer down pat: • Pick someone you would be able to have your worst day with • Be kind (we’re often more polite to strangers than to our own family) • Cherish that person, and make sure you always feel cherished in return Sounds about right.

We cherish you, Paso!

The team at General Store Paso Robles

March 2019, Paso Robles Magazine

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| Hoofbeat

By Bec Braitling

J

ust when you feel inspired to get back in the saddle for some serious riding after the holidays, the rain and frigid temps of February make things a little tough. It’s wonderful to hack the horses out and see the flowing river again. March is a great time of year to get some long slow fitness back on the horses and hit the trails, roads that are generally a little hard in the summer make for excellent winter trails.

B uck Davidson C linic

We have a little inside joke here at Twin Rivers Ranch that Paso Robles can really turn on some extreme weather whenever we host events. Staying true to form, the first weekend in February provided some fairly rainy, blustery and generally unpleasant horse riding

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weather. Buck Davidson is one of America’s most decorated eventing riders, his father Bruce Davidson Snr is an icon in the sport and is widely regarded as one of the greatest. This was Buck’s first trip to the beautiful central coast to teach a two day clinic. Luckily for us, the huge covered arena at Twin Rivers Ranch was the perfect setting to ensure the weather stayed on the outside! Over 25 riders travelled from all over California to take part, some of them enjoying a few extra days of Paso living and wine tasting after the roads home were closed due to snow. Looking ahead to March, we are excited to be hosting the U.S. Eventing Chef d’Equipe and Performance Director (essentially the team coach) Erik Duvander at the Winter Horse Trials at Twin Rivers (March 1-3rd). After the United States narrowly missed out on qualification in the sport of eventing for the upcoming Olympics in

Tokyo 2020, their sights are firmly set on a top podium finish at the Pan American Games in Lima, July 2019. It’s great to see our wonderful home attracting such high calibre clinicians, events and competitors at this time of year (despite the winter weather thrown our way!)

Black Oaks Pony Club

Dubost Equestrian in Templeton is home to North County’s only Pony Club, ‘Black Oaks’. The small-but-mighty club is home to 10 young members who enjoy some of the wonderful experiences Pony Club offers to aspiring young riders looking to learn all about the horse world. Black Oaks DC extraordinaire and owner of Dubost Equestrian, Sarah Kotchian Dubost,

ensures the kids can experience a wide variety of events such as visiting Santa Ynez Hunt Club, schooling cross country at Twin Rivers, showjumping rallies in Fresno and Woodside, hosts an annual mock rally at home and also participate at shows at the Paso Robles Horse Park. The club draws on instruction from not just Sarah but some of North County’s finest trainers including Katie Augsburger Katz, Lou Moore Jacobson, Andrea Baxter, Sarah Pollock, Lorraine Danahy, Amanda Diefenderfer and Katie Sequeira. If you’re looking for a great program to broaden your horse knowledge contact Sarah at skdubost@hotmail.com or 805423-2460 for more information.

Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

March Calendar

March 1-3 Twin Rivers Ranch Winter Horse Trials. The ‘best of the west’ compete – 3 day event.

Info at twinrivershorsepark.com.

March 5-10 Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association presents the 2019 PCCHA Coyote Rock Ranch Roundup at the Paso Robles Event Center, Paso Robles. Go to pccha .com or email info@pccha.com March 9-10 Gerhard Politz Dressage Clinic, Refugio Road Ranch, 2181 N Refugio Rd, Santa Ynez.

Contact Sarah Graham at s.graham @agpsla.com for information.

March 12 SLO Horse Expo, Madonna Expo Center. Food, fun, shopping, entertainment, and education. Free admission. Get more info at info@slohorseexpo.com.

March 21-24 CCPHC Western Paint World Spring Fling APHA/ ALL Breed Show. Paso Robles Event Center. mjmshowservices.com March 29- 31 Cattlemen’s Western Art Show at the Paso Robles Event Center. cattlemenswesternartshow .com

Celebrate this Fantastic Rainy Season with New Entry Mats!

Your Floors Will Be So Happy They Will Shine!

March 2019, Paso Robles Magazine

pasomagazine.com | 45

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Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE NUTRITION CENTER

Understanding Your

M ICROBIOME

Did you know that the cells in your body are outnumbered 10 to 1 by bacterial cells? They are responsible for our health or disease in a number of ways. The Human Microbiome Project was started in 2008 to determine how microbes are associated with health and disease.

If you have a history of using antibiotics, antacids and NSAIDS in addition to a highly refined sugar and white flour diet, your gut ‘ecosystem’ may be disrupted resulting in bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, brain fog and weight gain. Non-beneficial gut bacteria can also cause poor sleep, chronic anxiety, acne, fatigue and more. Improving the health of your microbiome is essential to optimal health.

Happy Gut. Happy You.

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To nourish your gut microbiome and protect against disease, a daily probiotic can support digestion, assimilation of nutrients, immune response and serotonin production since this “feel good hormone” is largely produced in the digestive tract and dependent on beneficial bacteria.

New Chapter’s All Flora Probiotic is a “one-two” punch with 10 billion CFU live bacteria per capsule combined with prebiotic fibers and digestive support. In addition to a whole food diet rich in fiber, a probiotic a day (maybe an apple too!) may keep the doctor away!

As stress and long term use of certain medications may cause intestinal permeability or “leaky gut”, certain nutrients can support repair of gut lining and reduce inflammation. Enzymetica’s GI Recovery contains superfoods and L Glutamine to promote gut healing resulting in optimal energy, gut function and recovery from digestive upsets.

Whatever your health issue may be, supporting your ‘microbiome’ is essential. Visit The Natural Alternative and let my amazing team help you choose from a wide variety of pre and probiotics, digestive enzymes and supplements to support a healthy gut lining. New Chapter’s All Flora Probiotic is 20% off through March. You are what you “eat, digest and assimilate!”

Wishing you the best of health, Bobbi Conner, CNC, ACN, MH and the Team at The Natural Alternative

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE DIAGNOSIS, PRESCRIPTION, OR TREATMENT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

March 2019, Paso Robles Magazine

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Save the Date May 10, 2019 For information call Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce 805.238.0506

March 2019, Paso Robles Magazine

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Wine Country Mushroom Farm Mural The Story Behind This Paso Robles Icon Two in Tow & On The Go

A Family Adventure Column

By Tonya Strickland

S

o, you know that big wooden mural at the corner of Beechwood Drive and Meadowlark Road on Paso’s east side? The one of the little girl in the floral farmhouse dress with the big frilly collar who’s sitting next to a boy in overalls, sweetly holding a bouquet of flowers?

Such a charming Paso Robles staple, right? Well, Facebook helped me unveil the story behind it.

Turns out, the art piece is about two decades old.

The darling little country kids in it are actual real-life people and the whole thing was done to celebrate their small family-owned mushroom farm.

You guys, I’m nerding out over here. I’m such a sucker for a good throwback.

But first, this whole history lesson started with just another ho-hum school pickup sesh at Virginia Peterson Elementary School. Instead of hopping in the car after buckling the kids, I walked over to the mural I always wondered about to grab a few pics of it for my Instagram page. (#doitforthegram).

All of a sudden, my mama friend, the lovely Danielle Ransford, saw me from across the street and was like, “Hey, Tonya! I know that girl!”

Say whaaat? Dude, I LOVE small towns.

My ears perked up while Danielle told me the story: the girl depicted the mural is one of her childhood friends! And, as I came to find out later on Facebook, she’s the now 29-year-old Haley Hoops-Petrovich. And the adorbs little boy next to her is her little brother, Conner Hoops, 23. The pair now live in Atascadero and Colorado Springs, respectively.

Exciting, right?!

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CA Holistic Institute.......................... 19 California Mid-State Fair................... 11 CalSun Electric.................................. 36 Cattlemen’s Western Art Show........ 28 Central Coast Medical Aesthetics..... 46 Cheri York.......................................... 09 Cider Creek Bakery........................... 14 City of Paso Robles REC.................... 07 Community West Bank.................... 04 Connect Home Loans....................... 39 County Commission on Women..... 31 Dr. Chalekson................................... 37 Equine Experience........................... 45 Estrella Warbirds.............................. 21 Foss Electric....................................... 14 Gallagher Video................................ 13 Gallegos Garage Door Service......... 37

50 | pasomagazine.com

Some things I learned: The mural used to be different colors. In fact, it was an entirely different set of colors before it was exposed to the elements, for example her dress wasn’t always light blue.

The artwork celebrates farming. Haley and Conner’s parents, Pennie and Jeff Hoops, commissioned the oversized portrait to celebrate their family-owned Wine Country Mushroom farm, which they operated from about 1998 to 2002 at their home off Meadowlark Road.

The Hoops babies were about 7 and 3 years old when they posed for the picture, and their country-kid illustrations have been representing Paso ever since.

The sign moved. The family tells me that when the sign was first posted, it stood at Meadowlark Road near Oriole Road. But when the Hoops sold their property in 2005, the new owner moved the sign further west to where it stands today.

It was painted by a famous artist. Artist John Cerney is the man behind the mural. That’s the same guy who paints the oversized slice-of-life portraits celebrating California’s farming culture motorists pass on their way through Monterey County (and elsewhere across the country).

After the pictures were posted to my Instagram and Facebook, someone tagged Haley in the post … and she replied! Ahhh! The painting girl was replying to MY post. The story behind the mural was literally unfolding with each new commenter to my very own Two In Tow Facebook page. SO COOL. Turns out, the Hoops family did, indeed, sell their hearty shiitake and oyster mushrooms in fresh bunches at the local farmer’s market. Haley recalled going to the farmers market with her parents to sell the mushrooms until the farm operation closed a few years later because it was too expensive to keep up. Later, the family would host a pumpkin patch instead.

Faded and weather-worn, this painting, I think, has become quintenssential Paso and I just love it.

And I’m not the only one.

Soon, my Facebook thread was filled with others’ memories of the farm, one of which was someone with a Girl Scouts troop visiting the farm when it had pumpkins and another who recalled eating fresh mushrooms from the Hoops’ greenhouse.

Personally, I had never noticed the basket of mushrooms in the painting or the mushrooms growing on the ground beneath Haley’s shiny black dress shoes. Or, that she and her brother are next to an old log with cutest little critter standing in it.

The painting is super detailed once you take a closer look. And I totally suggest you do.

But the story doesn’t end there. What’s even better is Haley said she’d love to see something memorable happen to the mural. In her own words: “I recently asked the people who owned the land if I could have it. They said I could but I wouldn’t know what to do with it! I know it’s beyond repair, I called the artist and he said it’s not salvCageable. I might try and get a nice print done and have someone finish the background and give it to my parents as a gift. Weird to think I’m part of “history.’”

I’d love to see something come of this actual wood-and-paint mural, not just a print of it. A restoration project for Pioneer Museum, perhaps? I’d love to hear your ideas. Email twotowgo@gmail.com.

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Paso Robles Safe & Lock................... 14 Paso Robles Youth Sports Council... 44 Pegasus Senior Living...................... 13 Perfect Air.......................................... 43 PR Chamber of Commerce.............. 49 PR District Cemetery......................... 45 PR Waste........................................... 35 Red Scooter Deli............................... 43 Robert Fry, M.D................................. 22 Rock Solid Stone Care...................... 40 Santa Lucia School Fundraiser......... 19 Señor Sanchos.................................. 23 SESLOC.............................................. 52 SLO County Office of Education....... 34 Solarponics....................................... 31 Spice of Life....................................... 19 Ted Hamm Insurance....................... 40

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Paso Robles Magazine, March 2019

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