SHARING STORIES JUN/JUL SLOLIFEMAGAZINE.COM2020 MEETCHRISBURKARD PURSUING PASSION &
We’re more than just ink on paper. 2226 Beebee St, San Luis Obispo, CA 805.543.6844 prpco.com cfd Print Mail Apparel Design Web
MODERN • CLASSIC • JEWELRY 1128 GARDEN STREET SAN LUIS OBISPO WWW.BAXTERMOERMAN.COM
We’re here for always.andnowyou
We know how important essential travel is to our community. SLO Transit has taken extra precautions in implementing enhanced cleaning methods and maintaining a rigorous cleaning schedule to keep buses clean and sanitized. We’re here for you now with essential travel and we’re here for you as our community is supporting one another on the road to recovery. For more information on individual routes and schedules, please visit our website at slotransit.org, download the SLO Transit app, or call Transit Dispatch at (805) 541-2877.
4 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 5 GENERAL BUILDING CONTRACTORS . LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS 805.704.7559 License 731695
6 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 CONTENTS Volume 11 Number 3 Jun/Jul 2020 22141216 SneakInfo Peek In BriefsBox 10 PUBLISHER’SMESSAGE 2426 Q&AView 30 MEET NEIGHBORYOUR 28 NOW HEAR THIS
Before & After actual patients Love your legs again! Bringing Quality Heart and Vascular Care to the Central Coast since 2008 Nationally recognized single physician practice Offering consultative cardiology, vein care, and wound care Linked with Concierge Choice, one of the nation’s leaders in patient care Affiliated with the Center for Medical Weight Loss, a physician directed program www.premierheartandveincare.com | 805.540.3333 Dr. Ken Stevens
8 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 | CONTENTS 444246 OnFamilythe DwellingRise 40 ARTIST 80 BREW 6064 Real HealthEstate 75 Wine Notes 70 TASTE
Aside from the finer points of storytelling—protagonists and voice and all those things—the real lesson I have learned over the past ten years is that it’s not about me. SLO LIFE Magazine has a life of its own now. It’s all grown up. And that has everything to do with you. I see it the same way I imagine I’ll see my kids someday when we load up the minivan and drop them off at college, or watch them walk down the aisle. Just like today, I will be fighting the lump in my throat as I struggle to understand the emotion underlying it all—pride. More than anything, I’m proud of the work we have done, proud to have played a role in creating something bigger than ourselves, something better, something that has, and will continue to, bring joy and create community in the only way we ever have, through sharing stories.
As a kid, I loved running my fingers through the musty old card catalog at the library, searching for the books about astronauts and dinosaurs and quarterbacks.
Stories, I learned in school, are about characters. Some of those characters are called protagonists. They’re the heroes. It was something I had to unlearn.
I started that interview the same way I always do. “So, tell me, where are you from?” My voice recorder sitting on the table between us disappeared after a few minutes as he retraced the steps of his journey. By the time we wrapped up our conversation I had three hours of audio. And zero idea what to do with it.
It’s a decade later now. In so many ways, I feel like we’re just getting started. Just getting warmed up. During those early days, our kids were still in diapers, so often in our laps as we worked, lulled to sleep by the rhythm of the keyboard clicking and clacking, stirring when they were interrupted by Mom and Dad bickering over whether or not to use a semicolon.
The thing that most fascinates me about stories is not the stories themselves, but how they are told. For people who study this stuff, they call it voice. As I began to write, I found myself deep inside my own head, sometimes adding a pair of quotation marks followed by “McKay said.” It just did not resonate. The voice was all wrong. Because it was my voice. As I continued to limp through the article, I kept playing that recording in the background. I wanted Lief’s speaking style, right down to his Australian accent, to jump off the page. That’s when it occurred to me. The cover story should be Lief in his own words. We called it “Meet Your Neighbor.”
| PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE Ten Years
In the months leading up to that inaugural issue, I thought a lot about stories and the best way to tell them. I had an epiphany following my interview with our first ever “Meet Your Neighbor” subject. When I met Lief McKay out for a pint, I still did not have a clear vision for our cover story. At the time, he was active in the SLO Rugby Club, and I thought it might make for an interesting article. In my mind, I pictured a pile of rowdy and muddied players hamming for the camera after a game.
Live the SLO Life! Tom tom@slolifemagazine.comFranciskovich
That is what I love most about the work we do here at SLO LIFE Magazine, we share the stories of the characters who bring this place to life. Their stories through their eyes in their voice. The protagonists among us: Human beings. Sisters. Brothers. Neighbors. Friends.
Protagonists, instead, are simply the people through which a story is told. It’s how we experience it, through them. They are neither good nor bad; they just are. In other words, they’re the same as the rest of us—human.
It’s a familiar view for tortured writers everywhere—the blank screen. Over and over, I played the tape as I thought about how to tell the story of the SLO Rugby Club. Rewind. Play. Rewind. Play. It was mildly interesting, but not compelling. At a primal, gut-level, it didn’t engage. Still, I found myself continuing to go back to the beginning of the conversation, that first half-hour after I asked the where-are-you-from question. That’s where I found my protagonist. He was hiding in plain sight.
Ten years ago, my wife, Sheryl, and I published the very first issue of SLO LIFE Magazine. Rising out of the ashes of the Great Recession, we did not have the funds to deliver to your mailbox as we do now. Instead, we recruited a small army of Cal Poly students to walk with us, neighborhood by neighborhood, to drop it on your doorstep.
On behalf of everyone here at SLO LIFE Magazine, Happy Anniversary—this is your magazine. And, most of all, to our advertisers who make everything possible, thank you for your support.
Although I have always been fascinated by stories and storytelling, it took a long while to figure out why.
10 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
Choosing the road less taken, we create bold natural quartz designs with intricate movement and flow that change inspiration in a whole new way. Be bold. Be iconic. Be revolutionary with our 20 new designs. Find your new kitchen or bath at San Luis Marble. 417450_AD||2020CAMBRIA© QUEENSBURYSLMarble.com805-544-9133™
BEYOND THE STRAIGHT NARROW
AND
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 11
CONTRIBUTIONS
Complete details regarding circulation, coverage, and advertising rates, space, sizes and similar information are available to prospective advertisers. Please call or email for a media kit. Closing date is 30 days before date of issue.
NOTE The opinions expressed within these pages do not necessarily reflect those of SLO LIFE Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publisher.
SLO us (805)
today for FREE placement assistance.
ADVERTISING If you would like to advertise, please contact Tom Franciskovich by phone at (805) 543-8600 or by email at tom@slolifemagazine.com or visit us online at slolifemagazine.com/advertise and we will send you a complete media kit along with testimonials from happy advertisers.
Letters chosen for publication may be edited for clarity and space limitations.
12 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 4251 S. HIGUERA STREET, SUITE 800, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIFORNIA info@slolifemagazine.comSLOLIFEMAGAZINE.COM (805) 543-8600 • (805) 456-1677 fax PUBLISHER Tom Franciskovich CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sheryl Franciskovich CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Libbie Agran Charlotte Alexander Jeff LaurenAl-MashatHarveyPadenHughesZaraKhanJaimeLewisBrantMyersShawnStrong CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Luke Chesser Julie VanessaKelseyRonCajuGaugueryGomesJohnsonDavidLalushKnightJuliaPerezPlakiasAustinSchmidGunnarVelten
CIRCULATION, COVERAGE, AND ADVERTISING RATES
elderplacementprofessionals.com546-8777
LIFE magazine Elder Placements realizes the IMPORTANCE of listening to the client, in order to find the appropriate: Independent Living Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Homes Let their experienced Certified Senior Advisors take you on a tour to find the Retirement Home or Community that fits your loved ones Medical, Financial and Social needs, at NO Cost to you. Contact
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 4251info@slolifemagazine.comS.HigueraStreet,Suite 800 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Have some comments or feedback about something you’ve read here? Or, do you have something on your mind that you think everyone should know about? Submit your story ideas, events, recipes, and announcements by visiting us online at slolifemagazine.com and clicking “Share Your Story” or emailing us at info@slolifemagazine.com. Be sure to include your full name and city for verification purposes. Contributions chosen for publication may be edited for clarity and space limitations.
Nicole Pazdan, CSA,
SUBSCRIPTIONS Ready to live the SLO Life all year long? It’s quick and easy! Just log on to slolifemagazine.com/subscribe. It’s just $24.95 for the year. And don’t forget to set your friends and family up with a subscription, too. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 13 AmericanRivieraBank.com • 805.965.5942 San Luis Obispo • Paso Robles • Goleta • Santa Barbara • Montecito What does True Community Banking mean? It means working together to find solutions under even the most trying of circumstances. It means we care about your employees as if they were our own. COMMERCIAL LOANS | COMMERCIAL LINES OF CREDIT | COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LENDING Preferred SBA Lender Getting Through This, Together. “Instant action set American Riviera Bank apart! They were right on top of all of the SBA requirements; I wouldn’t be getting through this without them.” — Kellie Avila, Owner at Avila Traffic Safety
scenes A SNEAK PEEK BY
LIFE | ON THE COVER behind
As I was leaving, Forrest, Chris’s youngest, surprised me with a yellow ice flower that made my heart smile. Brea jokes that when Chris gets back from a trip, he checks in with the alpacas first. The alpacas definitely love Chris and feel safe with him. They were taking refuge near him during the shoot. SLO the VANESSA PLAKIAS WITH CHRIS BURKARD
We talked about how precious time is and how they love the rural life—that it suits their family. Chris and Brea talked about why it’s so important to manage your life and to use your time wisely.
14 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
As I got out of my car to scope out the property, Chris’ oldest son Jeremiah, ran to the top of their deck to welcome me. He climbed down from his favorite tree wearing a hat and cowboy boots. It was so sweet, definitely a Huck Finn moment.
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 15 THE AVENUE CENTRAL COAST REALTY REAL ESTATE | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | IN-HOUSE MARKETING 1333 JOHNSON AVE, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401 | (805) 548 2670 | THEAVENUESLO.COM Amy Owner/REALTOR®DaaneChrisOwner/BrokerEngelskirger JedOwner/REALTOR®Damschroder KellyeREALTOR®Grayson KrissyREALTOR®BellisarioDougREALTOR®Cutler MuktaREALTOR®NaranSachaREALTOR®Steel StacieREALTOR®KennyYatinREALTOR®Naran AlexREALTOR®Wilkerson BECAUSE YOU DESERVE THE VERY BEST CENTRAL COAST REAL ESTATE REPRESENTATION. 373 OLD RANCH RD, AG offered at: $1,079,000 2599 SAN DOMINICO AVE, LOS OSOS offered at: $1,950,000 1858 PEREIRA DRIVE offered at: $635,000
16 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 LIZ CLARKE, along with many others, contributed to the restoration of the historic Mill Building. AMAZON BASIN, COLUMBIA Take us with you! | IN BOX Hey, SLO LIFE readers: Send us your photos the next time you’re relaxing in town or traveling far and away with your copy of the magazine. Email us at info@slolifemagazine.com SITKA, ALASKA ATLANTIC OCEAN DA NANG, VIETNAM DR. MICHAEL CLAYTON on the Vichada River with fishing guide ROMERO catching a Peacock Bass. LOREN EYLER of Avila Beach crossing the Atlantic aboard Allure of the Seas. DORA ERB on vacation with her sisters at the Golden Bridge wearing Kadazan Sabah traditional dress.
LEARN BY DOING WAS BORN HERE
THE
Cal Poly liberal arts and engineering studies students partner with low-income elementary schools throughout the Central Coast to teach computer science, design and leadership. Using robotics, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) skills and interactive storytelling, the goal is to encourage academic achievement and equal opportunity in industry, and to create new ways for Cal Poly to serve our local communities. See more Learn by Doing stories at GIVING.CALPOLY.EDU
PHOTOGRAPH
CAL POLY AND LEARN BY DOING HAVE BEEN RESIDENTS OF CENTRAL COAST SINCE 1901.
BY CAL POLY STUDENT JACOB IZZO (FOURTH-YEAR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES MAJOR) AD DESIGN BY CAL POLY STUDENT LAUREN WENSTAD (THIRD-YEAR GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION MAJOR)
18 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 FRENCH RIVIERA STUTTGART, GERMANY | IN BOX SLO LIFE travels! CLINTONVILLE, OHIO THE FIERCE FLAMINGOS MYRIAM, LUKAS, and AMÉLIE OLAIZOLA JENNIFER and ERICK WAND pause briefly during their 2019 European Odyssey to share SLO Life Magazine at the festivities of the Stuttgarter Frühlingsfest. LAURA, GIANNA, and STELLA SHEARD OLIVIA and MARC WOOD in front of the Rustic Bridge in the historic Beechwood neighborhood.
facing Bayshore Village condo is an end unit boasting amazing water views from both levels. Tasteful, custom updates include beautiful wood and tile flooring, corian countertops, farmhouse style sink, custom showers and closets in a spacious, top floor master suite that are only rivaled by the unobstructed, back-bay, ocean and sandpit views. Website: www.188Bayshore.com
TEMPLETON
MAGAZINE | 19
www.1475LittleMorroCreek.com
TIM REALTOR®,COWANLIC.#02021716 805.459.3818
KURTIS WURSTER REALTOR®, LIC #01931796 805.441.1419
MORRO BAY SAN LUIS OBISPO MORRO BAY
Positioned at the highest point in the Little Morro Creek Valley and offering sweeping views of Morro Rock and the Pacific horizon, this 2,908sqft, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom single level home is situated on 20 bucolic acres and provides a rare opportunity for ranch style living. Sunsets over the water can be seen from the large master suite, the soaking tub in the master bath, the living room, the dining room and the expansive front lawn. In addition, the indoor poolroom also boasts spectacular panoramic views of the valley, ocean and surrounding ranch land.
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Haven Properties 441 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805 Main Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442 1401 Park Street, Suite C, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Investing in the SLO area is very relevant, especially at this time. Very close to Cal Poly which is OPTIMAL for students and just a short drive to Cuesta College. The home offers 3 bedroom and 2 bathrooms. The 3rd bedroom and 2nd bathroom are a converted garage that adds approximately 350 square feet of living space to total approximately 1,520 sqft! Website: www.283Warren.com
TIM COWAN, REALTOR®, LIC. #02021716 This805.459.3818verydesirable,water
This immaculately maintained home has over 1800sqft of living space on a 13k+ sqft lot. An entertainers delight with an open kitchen, stainless steel appliances, plenty of cabinet space for all your storage needs, and a breakfast bar that leads into the family room. The backyard is paradise with a built-in pool,4 waterfall features along with a slide, an outdoor kitchen, and hot tub. Website: www.1435Godell.com
TERRY REALTOR®,GILLESPIELIC.#01815083 805.459.2022
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE BHGREHAVEN.COM 805.592.2050
20 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 SAN LUIS OBISPO JUDI and GARY TEWELL SAN LUIS OBISPOTAHITI Please send your photos and comments to info@slolifemagazine.com Follow SLO LIFE on Facebook: Visit facebook.com/slolifemagazine Visit us online at slolifemagazine.com Letters may be edited for content and clarity. To be considered for publication your letter should include your name, address, phone number, or email address (for authentication purposes). MORRO BAY JOE SHEPARD shortly after a dive near the island of Tasha in French Polynesia, not to far from Bora Bora. PAUL RYS restoring a home in SLO. Trekking with you! | IN BOX MICHELLE COBBS retreating in the she-shed in her backyard.
Your Safety is Our Priority
As the world around us changes, our commitment to your health and safety remains the same. If you visit Tenet Health Central Coast for an emergency, a surgery or the birth of a child, rest assured we have extra precautions in place for your safety and comfort. If you need care, don’t hesitate to come to one of our hospitals. Accidents, chronic disease and new or worsening symptoms don’t stop during this time and neither should their treatment. We’re here for you, no matter your healthcare needs, bringing the expertise and compassion that makes us a Community Built on Care. For more information, visit TenetHealthCentralCoast.com COMMUNITY BUILT ON CARE
A
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 21 Here for Your Care
The number of new unemployment claims filed in SLO County between March 14 and April 25, according to the local Workforce Development Board. Claims spiked the week ending March 28, with 8,959 unemployment claims submitted. In comparison, just 183 local unemployment claims were filed in the week ending January 18, 2020.
Have a question and can’t find the answer? Visit slolibrary.org and select this free, convenient, and recently-expanded online feature offered by the county library system.
“Ask Librarian”a
GambeliaSila
72% million$20
The amount of money the SLO Airport received in April from a C.A.R.E.S. Act stimulus grant to cover lost revenues due to a ninety percent drop in passengers since state and county shelter-at-home orders were put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A recent audit found that Cal Poly student fees have increased by 72% over the past eight years—the highest fees in the CSU system— and that the university had violated state policy by diverting tens of millions of those dollars toward salaries and benefits.
Also known as the blunt-nosed leopard lizard, this large charismatic reptile native to the Carrizo Plain may be threatened by climate change, according to a study led by Cal Poly biological sciences graduate student Kat Ivey recently published in the journal Conservation Physiology. Listed as a federally endangered species, the lizards may be forced into underground burrows more often during soaring summer temperatures, where they cannot mate, feed, or defend their territories.
The projected energy cost savings from the construction of a 1.2-megawatt solar field on a parcel of land at the end of Oklahoma Avenue, offsetting about eighty percent of the County Operations Center’s energy use. The project will provide electricity to twelve facilities at the COC, and is slated for completion in September.
| BRIEFS
“Leisure travel should not take place during a pandemic.”
22 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
Open SLO #SLOTogether
SLO LIFE County Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein announcing steps the County took in May to limit tourism to the region to protect public health. Mandates include limiting the use of campgrounds to local residents only and limiting hotel and short-term lodging occupancy rates to no more than fifty percent, and only for “essential travel.”
$150,000
A social media campaign of hope and inspiration designed to let the true spirit of the San Luis Obispo community— including a unique lifestyle and endless supply of happiness—shine. It includes individual stories of local businesses and organizations going above and beyond to support their neighbors.
The City of San Luis Obispo sent a survey to ask its residents a series of questions, including: “The following are proposed locations for temporary closures of streets and use of City-owned spaces within the downtown for walking, outdoor dining, and retail. How supportive would you be of each of these strategies?” Under the heading “Higuera Street (from Osos Street to Nipomo street, while maintaining cross street access to vehicles during Marsh Street Bridge Closure),” as of this writing, 62.28% responded “Very supportive.”
19,720
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 23
IT’S TIME TO GET A SECOND OPINION EXPERTISE ACCOUNTABILITY INTEGRITY
William Henry Crew III, CA Insurance License #0B17626 is a Registered Representative with and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Meredith Collins, CA Insurance License #0K48774 is a Registered Assistant with and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Financial Planning offered through Crew Wealth Management, a registered investment advisor and separate entity of LPL Financial.
William Henry Crew III CFP®, MBA, ChFC®, AIF®
SLO LIFE
| VIEW Valley View
The passion Johnson had for photography waxed and waned over the years since he left the Navy, worked in manufacturing in the valley, and served on the Planning Commission for twenty years, but once the digital age came about, the ease of creating and processing photos was a draw. Already a collector of film cameras at the time (all of which he still holds onto), his collection of cameras expanded. “I have more digital cameras now than I ever had before,” Johnson said. “Do I miss [dark rooms]? No, absolutely not, not in the least.”
24 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
“There’s a lot of software available to create all kinds of different effects, and I really like doing that,” he said. Since he’s a veteran, Johnson drives to Santa Maria to visit the VA hospital regularly, where the doctors there are helping him battle skin cancer. After noticing his dermatologist didn’t have any photos hanging in the exam room, Johnson asked what he’d prefer. The answer was “landscape.” By his next visit, Johnson had prepared a framed print of this shot, which still hangs there today. “I get a thrill out of thinking that somebody likes the photo so well that they’re willing to hang it on their wall,” he said. “I think that’s really a big deal.” BY JOE PHOTOGRAPHYPAYNE BY RON JOHNSON
The other motivator to dedicate more time to his longtime passion happened six years ago when Johnson got involved with the Paso Robles Art Association’s Photo Guild. The members of the guild are “very willing to share their equipment and their knowledge,” he explained, and within that group of like-minded creatives, Johnson had an opportunity to grow as an artist himself.
JOE PAYNE is a journalist, as well as a lifelong musician and music teacher, who loves writing about the arts on the Central Coast, especially music, as well as science, history, nature, and social issues. R etired Paso Robles Navy veteran Ron Johnson has been into photography for a long time—we’re talking since the days of the dark room. His in-laws were passionate photogs, and he spent plenty of time in his brother-in-law’s darkroom with the caustic chemicals that only added to the discomfort of the painstaking process.
Johnson’s humble attitude hides some of his bona fides, including six first-place photography awards in the Art Association’s competition last year. One of those awards was for this shot at Pear Valley, which won the blue ribbon for the Digitally Enhanced Landscape category. The image isn’t enhanced in color, or cropped to change the composition, Johnson explained, but touched up with Photoshop to remove some farm equipment that he felt took away from the scene. It was just a bunch of “stuff” in the shot that distracted from the view, he said, which he wanted to look “clean.”
A cursory glance at his Flickr page online shows that Johnson enjoys digital effects and subjects beyond landscapes, like wildlife and architecture.
Always with a camera in hand, Johnson snaps shots whenever he sees an inspiring view or subject. In the case of this image captured from the top of the hill at Pear Valley Winery, Johnson was attending a Teacher of the Year event there in support of a friend, and was struck by the view. “It was just being at the right place at the right time, honestly,” he said. “I think anyone in the camera club could have taken that same picture. My photo skills aren’t anything exceptional by comparison to anyone in our group.”
And how was it starting your own business here? For me, when I was starting a business, it was really quite daunting. I dealt with a lot of self-doubt. I wondered if I was really capable or qualified enough. But I found that connecting with other women who were doing it helped build my confidence. It was quite inspiring to see others in your community, who are successful and are building businesses and are facing challenges similar to yours and overcoming them. It’s really reassuring. It’s like, “Oh, okay. This is normal.” For anyone running a business, it’s going to involve a lot of ups and downs and challenges. And it’s not necessarily a reflection on you. It’s just the nature of it.
Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting LINDSEY MCCONAGHY. In addition to starting her own public relations firm, she also ser ves as the President of the local chapter of NAWBO, the National Association of Women Business Owners. Here is some of what she had to say…
| Q&A
Okay, Lindsey, it’s obvious you didn’t grow up on the Central Coast. I was actually born in New Orleans in Louisiana. But, as you can tell, that’s not where my accent is from. I grew up in Surrey, in the UK, just outside of London. So, my mum was from New Orleans and she met my dad while she was on vacation in London. It’s a really romantic story. He is a licensed black taxi driver there and he picked her up in his cab one evening. They got talking, and he asked her out on a date. Then, four months later, they were married. I was born in New Orleans and then three months after that they decided to move outside of London where I grew up, because my dad’s originally from there. So basically, I lived there most of my life. Went to school there, went to university in the UK. What sort of work did you do after graduation? I have always worked in public relations. I started out in London working for agencies. And then I gradually moved in-house to manage public relations for companies internally. And my last job before I left London was for a start-up. It was a health tech company and they had this big vision to really disrupt the industry—it was just really exciting. When I came to San Luis, I wanted to continue doing public relations with start-ups and innovative businesses. But I remember thinking that since it’s so small, they probably don’t exist. But after arriving here, I discovered that there was actually quite a bustling start-up scene. You have the Hot House downtown, where I actually work out of, and then you have the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. And, locally, there are established companies like Amazon who are here. I was very pleasantly surprised by that. So, I’ve been able to establish my own PR company and work with a lot of really great businesses here, quite a few of which are start-ups.
How did you end up here? My husband was born and raised in SLO. He went to SLO High. Then he moved to London for work, which is where we met. We actually got married in France. Then, at some point, we decided to move back here for a bit of a change of scenery and a change of pace. I visited a couple of times on vacation with him and just absolutely loved it. We got to a point where we fancied a bit of a change from the city, especially now with our fifteen-month-old daughter, Grace. One of our favorite things to do as a family is to take a long walk on the Bob Jones Trail and keep going all the way to Port San Luis. That view looking back on Avila is just a pinch-me moment. I always say, “Oh, my gosh, I can’t believe this is where we live.”
SLO LIFE
Yes, that’s right. Nationally we have about 10 million members. We are a local chapter. It’s a place where women in business can be bold. It can be something that some of us struggle with. I think it’s more about encouraging and empowering women. It’s a pretty amazing group. We are dedicated to helping women business owners succeed. We like to say that we are purposeful, effective, and courageous advocates for female entrepreneurs. We actually have representation in DC, people there advocating on behalf of womenowned businesses. And, locally, we’ve been recognized as one of the fasting growing chapters in the nation. It’s just an immediate connection to a network and a support system. It’s a place where women don’t have to be afraid to be ambitious. BEING BOLD
Is that how you discovered NAWBO?
26 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 27 Call us today for your consultation 805 541-1790 www.KarenScottAudiology.com K The better you hear, the better you’ll do. Serving you, your parents and your children since 1978 Helping You Hear The Things You Love Your hearing is important especially when operating in the dark.
28 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 | NOW HEAR THIS THE VIBE
Dante Marsh has a background that’s as unique as they come. Born and raised in Northeast Ohio, Marsh had no interest in singing. His stage back then was the football field. In high school, he heard that an easy-A could be had by joining the choir. Marsh was surprised to find he enjoyed it. A lot. With the support of his choir leader, his singing improved. His confidence grew and, for the first time, Marsh contemplated making music a permanent part of his life.
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 29
When it comes to settling into a new town, Marsh admits he is a creature of habit.
SLO LIFE SETTERS
Los Angeles born, SLO County raised, SHAWN STRONG’s passion for the local music scene and artists that have created it, fuels his writing and drives his commitment to living the SLO Life.
After high school, Marsh’s family moved to Nashville while Marsh himself stayed in Ohio to attend college. A few semesters later, Marsh decided to drop out and move to Tennessee, as well. While working odd jobs in and around Music City, Marsh began playing guitar. He was a quick study and displayed his talent at the many open mic opportunities around town. He continued to work full-time for another couple of years while attending those open mic sessions nearly every night. Eventually, Marsh felt confident enough that he could support himself with music alone and said goodbye to all his other jobs. Marsh was encouraged by one of his Nashville-based associates to take some time to travel. Within a few weeks, he was on a plane headed for the Pacific. He spent nearly a month on the Hawaiian Islands recording his first album. It was at this point, Marsh says, that he began to see music as something more than just a profession. As far as he was concerned, music had become his life’s purpose. Feeling more confident than ever, he quickly made his way back to Nashville and then to Los Angeles.
Starting with open mics, he slowly began to establish himself among the locals before getting increasingly larger gigs. In no time at all, Marsh was set up with the biggest show he had booked up to that point, which was held at SLO Brew. And, in the two years since, he’s played at every winery, pub, and bar in the county. In that time, he’s also recruited an ace group of musicians including bassist Drake Freeman, lead guitarist Jon Millsap, percussionist Tim Costa, and drummer Gerald Purify. The group has gone on to play at large events including the Whale Rock Music Festival. Most recently, the group was awarded a New Times Music Award for best R&B group as well as the coveted Performance of the Night Award.
BY SHAWN STRONG PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE VIBE SETTERS
As is the case with many up-and-coming artists, Marsh struggled to find work and pay rent in the city. He was confident in his abilities considering his success in Nashville, but the sheer size of the LA music scene was difficult to navigate. Eventually, a friend suggested that Marsh might want to take a trip to a little place called San Luis Obispo. With that, he packed his bags, hopped on a train, and made his way north.
Currently, Marsh is recording another solo album. Be sure to keep an eye out for The Vibe Setters. You’ll be glad you did.
| MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY VANESSA PLAKIAS
Here
As he continues to explore the far corners of the globe, Arroyo Grande resident CHRIS BURKARD still claims the Central Coast is the best place to live. The self-taught professional photographer now spends his time teaching the craft to others, as well as maintaining a long list of blue-chip clients. He is also a frequent speaker after catapulting his career on the TED stage. In addition to his wife and two young boys— five and seven years old—his family also includes two horses, two alpacas, six chickens, and “a half-dozen other random little critters.” is his story…
STATEMENTMISSION
And that was back in the days of film, right. Yeah, that’s right. I’d go buy expired film from CVS Pharmacy or Rite Aid, at the time. And I’d shoot my friends surfing, or whatever we were doing. At the end of the week, we would all usually gather together at somebody’s house to hang out and look at the photographs. Then, I started going to Cuesta, and I’m sitting in class, and all my friends are calling me up and saying, “Chris, you’re missing out. The waves are so good.” And I’d be sitting there in class thinking, “Man, why am I here?” I’d say to et’s take from the top, Chris. Where are you from? I was actually born and raised here. My biological father passed away before I was born, so it was just my mom and me for a big portion of time. We bounced around and lived in just about every town in the county. She was a manager of Kennedy Club Fitness and was just
So, did you start taking classes? No, I never took photography classes in high school or anything like that. It was just more of an experience where I was kind of trying to find myself and figure out where I fit within my group of friends. Photography was sort of my way of feeling a part of something bigger than myself. I don’t know how to put it, but it’s sort of like that movie “Ocean’s Eleven,” where everyone in the group has some special thing they do; somebody’s the driver, and somebody’s the tech guy, and somebody does this or that. I had my spot as the documentarian of the group, and that felt really special. That was my role because I was never an incredible athlete or anything.
What were some of your other hustles?
What was your first big break? I’d say when I landed a job on the staff at Surfer Magazine , which I did for about eight years. That was kind of one of my dreams as a young photographer. And I did that and realized, “Whoa, there’s some job security here. I’m actually doing this.” But, I was making >> kind of a superhero, do-it-all mom trying to make the best life for us as possible, while still getting a degree and doing all the stuff that she needed to do. So, she mostly raised me by herself. And then, when I was about twelve years old, she got married, and my stepdad became a big part of the family.
How did you discover photography? I was in high school doing a lot of art classes, and I was like, “This is rad. I love it.” On the weekends, I was spending more and more time with my friends going up the coast and surfing and exploring. And, so, when I was a senior in high school, probably eighteen years old, my wife, who was my girlfriend at the time, we were at her house, and her mom brings out this old camera, an old Nikon with a hippie strap. I started playing around with it, and I just remember thinking, “Wow. This is it.” I felt like, all of a sudden, I could take creativity anywhere I went. I could take it along with me to the beach, or wherever. I realized that photography was this thing I could do. Now, never in a million years would I have considered it to be something that would be a career.
I just felt like this was sort of my gift to give to the people that I enjoyed spending time with.
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 33
L
What was it like growing up here? In the beginning, it was me and my mom hanging out at the beach. But at some point, the beach became more like a babysitter. She’d say, “Hey, here’s five bucks. Go down to the beach. I’ll pick you up this afternoon.” So, I’d go boogie board and hang out with friends. I mean, that was as much of my upbringing as anything else. But I think that, in many ways, I didn’t appreciate where I lived when I was young. I just wanted to get out and see the world and see what was out there and just explore. I thought this small town was kind of holding me back, which I think many kids in that age group feel.
myself, “Okay, I’m here because my mom wants me to do this.” And I got really good grades, and I got scholarships, and I was on track to be the first person in my family to have a college education. That was a big thing for them, and for me. But I felt like photography was this fleeting opportunity that was passing me by. And I kind of knew, in that moment, that if I didn’t pursue it right then and there, that I was going to get so far down this road that I was never going to be able to fully give myself to this craft.
So, what did you do? It’s kind of like being at the train station, your bags are halfway packed, and you have to jump on the train before you’re ready, but that’s what I did. I quit my job at nineteen, and I quit school, and I told myself, “I’m going to give photography everything I have. I don’t care if I’m facedown in the dirt, or if I’m thriving. At least I’ll know that I did it, and I tried it.” And that’s exactly what I did. I tried to make ends meet the best way I could. There were no aspirations to do what I do now, which is working within this commercial realm of photography and creating books and films. I had no idea that was even a possibility, to be honest. In the beginning, it was just about making money with a camera and the pride that comes from that. I think there’s something to be said for the dream of just being able to support yourself through creative means, and that’s what I was really seeking after. There was no ego, no pride about what I was shooting. I shot weddings and senior pictures, and everything to make ends meet.
Sometimes I’d run down to the beach and take random photos of people out in the water, and then I’d run up to them on land and say, “Hey, I have a couple of photos of you surfing. I’ll give them to you on a CD for twenty bucks.” And, I’d go to surf shops and say, “Hey, can I shoot photos of your store’s interior for a couple hundred bucks?” And I would do that. Sometimes I’d trade for equipment or clothing, and I would sell that off. It was hustling in the realest sense of the term. And, you know, I’ve never really got to the point where it’s like, “Oh, man—I’ve made it. Everything’s great.” I mean, the reality of being a freelance photographer is that you never know where your next paycheck is coming from. So, for me, if you never fully accept that you’ve made it, then you’re always going to be willing to keep working hard.
Where else has it taken you? I think I’ve, in many ways, come full circle. I’ve gone all the way to doing these crazy, big, massive production shoots to realizing, “Wow. That doesn’t fulfill me.” Now, I’m coming back to a place of working on stuff that does keep me inspired and excited and moved, I guess you could say. And so much of that is accepting the fact that, even though you can do jobs that will pay you more money to fill your bank account, you have to be conscious of the fact that, if it’s not fulfilling you internally and it’s >>
What do you mean by that exactly? I try to bring a lot of inspiration into it. By that, I mean the things that really motivate me and move me and inspire me. I still try to bring that to the table. So, most of the jobs I’m doing are rooted in the outdoor space, or they’re rooted in wilderness and landscapes and things like that. But that hasn’t always been the case. I remember being on the beach in Mexico, and just basically having a sixty-person crew lighting up this tiny Corona bottle. I remember thinking, “This is so weird.” It’s not necessarily a moment that I’m proud of. It’s just like, “Whoa. This has taken me so far from being this young kid, going to the beach, taking photos of my friends.” It’s definitely taken me to some weird places. That’s for sure.
34 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 pennies on the dollar. Those retainers don’t pay much, but that was when, I think, that I felt like I had landed somewhere, that there was a future in this line of work. I still contribute to them once in a while, but I also have much different clients now and I am in more of a commercial space where I’m shooting campaigns and advertising work for larger tech companies, and stuff like that. So, the work has evolved and changed over the years. And, so, what is a typical job for you now? I would say, there’s nothing really typical about anything I do, first of all. It’s always complicated. There’s always sort of something different. I would say that the one takeaway that I have is that every job forces me to bring something different to the table. Some of them force me to bring my experience as a water photographer or action sports. Some of them require me to shoot with a large crew and strobes. And sometimes you’re not even touching a camera; instead you’re just directing commercial TV spots or something like that. So, in the world of commercial advertising, it’s always changing. And I love that; I love the fact that it’s always changing, and it’s always challenging me and forcing me to try something new and different.
From our family to yours, Stay SafeStay Safe
Here’s the thing, people always ask for advice, all the time. And I love giving advice, actually. It’s something I take very seriously. And I’ve done a lot of it through workshops and events and public speaking, but the biggest thing I’ve realized is that if somebody doesn’t know where they want to end up, you simply cannot give them directions. You can’t give somebody directions to an unknown destination. So that means you first have to dive into what you want, and who you want to be, and what you want your world to look like before it’s worth investing the time in trying to educate yourself or finding a roadmap to get there. The roadmap only exists if there’s a destination in mind.
36 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 >>
And what if that destination means working for someone else?
Here’s the best way to put it. If you were to go to a group of photographers, a room of photographers, and you were to ask them, “Hey, who here wants to shoot for National Geographic ?” Every single one of them would raise their hand, right? And then if you were to ask them, “Well, what is their mission statement?” Nobody would raise their hand. I’ve done that hundreds of times in hundreds of workshops all over the world. And the reality is, how can we ever work for someone if we don’t know what they stand for? National Geographic ’s mission statement is to inspire people to care about the planet. That is what all of their digital, film, social properties, that’s what they all live under, that banner. So, whatever your path, whether going out on your own or working for someone else, you want to make sure there is alignment with the mission, otherwise it just won’t work, at least not for long.
not fulfilling your mission statement as an artist, then those things are just not going to last. Those things are just not going to sustain you for the long term. And I’ve accepted the fact that, for a long portion of my career, I’ve traveled and gone to places simply for the fact that I needed to collect a stamp in my passport or collect a paycheck. And those two things are great, but they’re not fulfilling.
How do you advise someone to come up with their mission statement? So, it starts with understanding and really starting to break down what inspires you. What is it that you want to do? Obviously, we all have to make money. I’ve had to do a lot of jobs that weren’t very inspiring, but they got me through hard financial times or whatever. But in the back of my mind, I always knew that what I loved most was storytelling, and traveling. So, the point is that you need to cultivate a mission statement as a photographer, or as an artist, or as
What sort of career advice would you give to someone starting out?
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 37 3196 South Higuera Suite D, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805.459.1865www.ccreslo.com|Lic. #01873454 graham @ ccreslo.com Graham is an asset to any prospective home buyer and immensely valuable if you are looking to sell your Central Coast home. His can-do, 'punch-list' attitude will help you achieve your sales goals. Graham's real estate expertise, communication, and local knowledge make him an absolute professional!–JulianClymer, Napa “ “
38 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 whatever you want to be, and that’s your guiding light. That’s your moral code. For me, I grew up in a home where traveling wasn’t an option. But I wanted to do it. So, when I started to go places, all I wanted to do was bring back those experiences to my mom and share them with her and tell the story because I knew how special it was. And that’s still what I do now, except it’s not just my mom, it’s turned into millions of others.
SLO
Can you expand upon your own mission statement? I think that, if anything, I want to empower people to go out and seek experiences outside that empower them to be the best version of themselves, and to learn what it’s like to open themselves up to new experiences and, ultimately, to get way outside of that zone of comfort and to shed our skin and become a better person. That’s what photography did for me, and that’s what I’ve always hoped that it could do for other people. But a big part of that is learning how to be a more conscious traveler and be a more aware human. So, I think that learning how to just be more aware of our surroundings and be more cognizant of the places we go and the issues they’re facing and how we can bring awareness to those things.
Nowadays, my work is focused on celebrating those things, the wild places, and the idea of pushing the human spirit to its furthest.
And what does the future hold? That’s a funny one. I get asked that quite a bit, and I never really know what to say. People are always like, “Oh, where do you want to be in five, ten, fifteen years?” To be honest, if I’m doing exactly what I’m doing right now in the future, I would be so happy. I love the fact that I get to reach so many people, and I love the fact that I get to do what I do. And traveling is a big part of that and sharing those experiences with my family. I think, if anything, all I want to do is, hopefully, have more opportunities to take my kids to these places and share that with them. And I think, if I can continue to reach as many people as I’m able to today, I’d be super grateful because that is truly one of my favorite things—being able to connect with people and tell stories. And hopefully inspiring them to get out and see it for themselves. That’s why I do what I do. LIFE
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 39 INC CONSTRUCTION + DESIGN S TA L WORKLIC948012|POBOX 391 SAN LUIS OBISPO CA 805.542.003393406 WWW.STALWORK.COM MAIL@STALWORK.COM COMMERCIAL | RESIDENTIAL INTERIORS + ARCHITECTURE + LANDSCAPE 2976 INDUSTRIAL PARKWAY . SANTA MARIA . 805-570-0019 HANSDUUS@GMAIL.COM . HANSDUUSBLACKSMITH.COMDUUSHANSBLACKSMITHINC Custom lighting fixtures proudly made by hand right here on the Central Coast.
A PROFILE
JEFF AL-MASHAT is a writer and visual artist with an MFA in painting from Georgia State University. He lives in Grover Beach.
McKay’s dexterity with color makes looking at her work a pleasurable experience on its own, but it is the genuineness of the imagery that really makes her paintings so engaging. While there is certainly a comparison to be made to Wayne Thiebaud’s colorful cakes and candy paintings, McKay’s work aligns more with an old master like Camille Pissarro and the subtle social commentaries woven into his paintings of everyday people. “My work is about memories that we make in our lives,” said McKay. “The paintings of things like sneakers are about the people who wear the shoes— my daughter, my father—but at the same time these iconic colorful shoes, that all of us probably have had at least one pair of, represent a lack of barriers and commonality between people.”
40 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
McKayAmy
Similar to the deeper meaning behind the objects, McKay’s paintings of places and spaces suggest that there is something special about each setting. The perspective she uses is broad, leaving a lot of room for the viewer to observe the additional surroundings, giving a sense that there is more of a story, a memory or colorful commentary to be appreciated in each piece. SLO LIFE student in her color theory classes, but when asked about her masterful use of color, she seems genuinely surprised that she has any acuity for it. Instead, her focus in the work is on the importance of physical spaces for gathering and appreciating what is important in life. Part of that appreciation for meaningful outdoor places comes from her professional background as a landscape architect. But in her paintings featuring everyday items like bicycles, intimate sitting spaces, and “Chuck Taylor” sneakers, it is apparent that the work is about much more than an iconic shoe or a simple desk chair.
ONTARIO RIDGE
| ARTIST
my McKay’s paintings suggest that she was the star BY JEFF AL-MASHAT
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 41 Dr. Arnie Horwitz HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS Are you feeling overwhelmed and confused? I can help. Specializing in - Relationship Conflicts - Parenting & Self-Esteem - Separation and Divorce - Personal Life Planning - Grief and Loss - Career Uncertainty Therapy/Counseling/Coaching Dr. Arnie Horwitz • 30 yrs. 805-541-2752Experiencewww.doctorarnie.com SUBSCRIBE slolifemagazine.comTODAY! live the SLO LIFE!
42 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
O
A fun collection of restaurants, tourist shops, a playground, and an aquarium—topped off with a wood-planked pier and beautiful views—it’s hard to imagine Avila being anything other than a tranquil cove. But its history is rich with twists and turns. From Chumach natives to Spanish conquistadors, from a whaler hub to Unocal’s oil tank farm, which lead to its environmental clean-up and eventual rebirth, Avila has had many face lifts over the last few centuries.
| FAMILY BY
PADEN HUGHES is co-owner of Gymnazo and enjoys exploring the Central Coast.
ne of the best things about this corner of the world is the beautiful ocean front and many seaside communities, each with its own flair and personality. Our family favorite is Avila Beach. It is a great little protected cove with a unified look and feel, perfect for families looking to enjoy the south-facing beach.
Now with young children of my own, I find it a perfect place to enjoy splashing along with the ebb and flow of the tide. With small tide pools exposed during low tide at either end of the main cove, it’s a wonderful place to explore the ocean and sea life. There is something healing and refreshing about the rhythmic and peaceful cadence of waves breaking, the smell of the ocean breeze, and the warmth of sunshine on your skin. Whether shrouded in fog or illuminated by the sun on a clear day, Avila Beach always makes for a picture-perfect walk in the sand. It’s the one place I return to again and again. It never gets old and always restores my gratitude for this place we call home.
andSandSun winds from the highway to the ocean. It is a haven for families to enjoy the sunshine and beauty of the Central Coast.
Moving here in 2004, all I have ever known Avila to be is a perfect little beach town. It has always been my favorite spot in the sand, in large part because of the Bob Jones Trail that PADEN HUGHES
SLO LIFE
I find it interesting that what gives Avila Beach its cohesive charm is actually a sad story of environmental damage. For nearly one hundred years, Unocal pumped gasoline, diesel fuel, and crude oil from its bluffs, while 22,000 gallons had silently been spilling into the earth around the oil giants’ tank farm. Residents who grew up in the area in the 70s and 80s remember going to the beach as children, building sandcastles, and watching oil well up as they dug in the sand. By the end of the 90s Unocal was required to pay over $200 million to clean up the environmental devastation. After removing 300,000 cubic-yards of crude saturated earth, most of the town was decimated and needed to be rebuilt, in part explaining why Avila looks so fresh and unified. It’s as if Walt Disney himself had taken up residence nearby and orchestrated the cheerful, bright rebuild of the town.
What do you want people to know about you? I want people to know that I am open-minded. I don’t judge others because I would never want to miss the opportunity to meet a kindred spirit and I believe that everyone has a story to tell.
What is going on with you now? I was recently asked to write an Op-Ed piece for HuffPost on how the climate crisis has affected my college/career path and have been enjoying working with their editors.
44 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
What are you looking forward to? I am really looking forward to taking a gap year after I graduate from high school. I want to go to South America and volunteer. What schools are you considering for college? My dream colleges are those that are leaders in environmentalism. I have been looking into UC Santa Cruz, Cal Poly, Stanford, and California Institute of Technology. What else should we know? I speak Spanish, I can drive a stick-shift, and my spirit-fruit is a mango.
This San Luis Obispo High School senior has received Golden Tiger awards in English and Math, the Mayor’s Award for Community Service, a Letter in Tennis, and has been on the Honor Roll every trimester.
Ashley Thorshov
What extracurricular activities are you involved in? I participate in local tree-planting projects, creek clean-ups, and climate awareness strikes. I started the Climate Action Club at SLOHS and am a mentor with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. On the weekends, I volunteer at Bliss Cafe, an environmentally friendly cafe in downtown SLO. What do you like to do for fun? I like to paint, draw, and sing and I love to spend time in nature. I enjoy taking long hikes and going to the beach, and if a sunset is involved, that’s even better.
Who has influenced you the most? This year I met Jennifer Bauer, a fierce advocate for the planet who has been involved with environmental activism, education, and awareness for many years. She helped me and three other students fight for a more environmentally friendly school district. We attended San Luis Obispo Unified School District Board of Trustees meetings and, after a few meetings, successfully convinced the board to create a sustainability advisory committee. This was the first time that I felt like I had really made a difference.
| ON THE RISE
What is your favorite memory of all time? Last Fall my parents and I hiked to Point Sal. It was a long and cold hike, and when we reached the coast, we stopped to rest in a sunny patch of sand sheltered from the wind. The three of us fell asleep to the sound of the seagulls and the waves. I remember feeling completely at peace.
What career do you see yourself in someday? I am exploring majors including environmental law, environmental engineering, renewable energy management, sustainability, and marine biology. I want to pursue a career where I will be able to help the planet as much as possible.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT SLO LIFE
Know a student On the Rise?
Introduce us at slolifemagazine.com/share
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 45 Thank you to our partners who help distribute our Talley Farms Boxes. (8 05 ) 4 8 9 -5401 | Ta ll ey Fa rm s B ox .c o m • Collin’s Market • Farm Supply Company • Heritage RanchLake Life Wellness Center • Lemos Feed & Pet Supply • Lincoln Market & Deli • Miner’s Ace Hardware • Nature’s Touch Harvest and Nursery • Naughty Oak Brewing Company • Quality Suites Hotel • Robinson Family Residence • Santa Margarita Feed Store • Sea Pines Golf Resort • Shell Beach Liquor and Deli • Takkens Shoes • The Rock SLO Brew • The Vitamin and Herb Stores • Wolfe Family Residence • Woody’s Butcher Block Helping families eat healthy Olivia Talley
| DWELLING MODERN
PARADISE
BY ZARA PHOTOGRAPHYKHAN BY DAVID LALUSH
In addition to being an interior designer, ZARA KHAN is also a shoe aficionado and horror movie enthusiast. and she held him to it. Pinder met his wife, Karrin Colwell, a Central Coast native, in London where she had relocated for work. Locally, the Colwells are an established family who are best known as the owners of the historic and iconic A&W car hop restaurant in Paso Robles. England’s charm was hard to resist, but the weather did not impress Colwell. There aren’t many places that can compete with the weather we
on’t make promises when you’re happy, don’t reply when you’re angry.” We should actually be thankful Clive Pinder made a casual promise while he was happy. At their wedding, Pinder hinted to his new mother-in-law that they may eventually find their way back to the Central Coast >> “D
48 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 49
50 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 are blessed with on the Central Coast. The couple’s first attempt at a solution was to spend some of their time in Spain, but quickly learned why people referred to Spain as “a cold country with a very hot sun.” When the sun was present the weather was delightful, but when the sun went down it was right back to chilly. Pinder was born in Nigeria before moving to England to attend boarding school. With roots in Africa, they decided maybe they should give the region a try next. They settled on Zanzibar and tackled their first new construction project. They built a vacation home which they enjoyed for many years and continue to today. Vacationing in Zanzibar was enjoyable, but daily London weather was still wearing on Colwell and she just couldn’t help but daydream about the sunny weather on the Central Coast. One fateful day, Colwell and Pinder opened an email that had a property listing sent by Colwell’s mother. It was located in Templeton and after seeing the breathtaking >>
52 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 views they knew they needed to move quickly. After chatting it over they went with their gut and purchased the site Excitedunseen.for their new project, they started to brainstorm about the style of their future home, it was no surprise the couple gravitated towards the pragmatic aesthetic of Mid-Century Modern. They felt in line with the principles of the Bauhaus Movement which promotes that form should follow function, the character of natural materials should be celebrated and should also embrace minimalism. They recognized the value of the property was primarily in the views and wanted to maximize them from every angle possible. Expansive vistas of neighboring vineyards wrap 180 degrees around the northern portion of the home. Most of their time would be spent outside, so the relationship between indoor and outdoor living needed to be seamless. >>
Colwell and Pinder are firm believers in supporting local business. It only felt right to enlist a local architect to help bring their vision to life. They began to ask around to see who might be a good fit and were connected to Andrew Goodwin at Andrew Goodwin Designs. Goodwin’s attention to detail, communication style, and design eye confirmed they needed him to be part of the team. It was important to Colwell and Pinder that the house implemented sustainable features. It was designed to be passively cooled, powered by the sun with photovoltaics, and due to the wildfire requirements of the site, as fire resistant as possible. Most importantly, the home also needed to display their extensive art collection, which showcases African and Aboriginal art, and not have the art compete with architectural elements. Colwell and Pinder wanted their friends and family to visit often and for as >>
54 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
Bishop Street Studios is a great example of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. An amazing group of people came together on this unique project to resurrect an architectural landmark and provide much needed housing for an underserved population in our community. The team embraced our ‘we before me’ value, fostering strong relationships while building a legacy project for the TENOVERSTUDIO.COMcommunity.
WE BEFORE ME
Architect Aisling Burke enjoying a job well done with our clients from Transitions-Mental Health Association and the Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo.
ARCHITECTURELANDSCAPEINTERIORSMEDIA
56 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 long as they wished so they decided to have two master suites at opposite ends of their main living area to allow for privacy and individual space. Their final request, a modern lap pool. They spent about a year before planning and dreaming with Goodwin. The building did not begin until the Fall of 2016. They compiled requests of how they needed the house to function and details they were attracted to, but ultimately let Goodwin run with the design. When they received his first design presentation, they were sold. It’s not often an architect nails the design on his first presentation and contractors are able to complete a project on budget and on time. I asked what they thought helped achieve these result—it was all due to the team they put together. Along with Goodwin, KGM Construction, and Carefree Pools all worked together tirelessly to make sure every detail was done correctly and that they were moving forward with the best option for the space. Colwell and >>
Ladera at Righetti Now
LIFE IN THE SLO LANE STARTS HERE
Information
All prices, plans, terms and offers are effective date of publication are subject to availability and may change without notice. Housing is open to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin. Depictions of homes are artist conceptions. Hardscape and landscape may vary and are not included in the purchase price. Square footage shown is only an estimate and actual square footage may differ. Please consult our sales team for additional information. Sales by CADO Real Estate Group DRE # 01525182 Construction by Ambient Management Service LP Lic. #1014645
The first release of spectacular homes at Ladera at Righetti offers three different home layouts, each designed to take full advantage of the site’s gorgeous hillside topography. Homes range from approximately 2,600 square feet to nearly 3,000 square feet, features three and four bedrooms, and two and one-half to fourand one-half baths. Center open Friday through Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call for a personal appointment (highly recommended). (805) www.righettiladera.com774-3038
To visit, take Tank Farm Road in San Luis Obispo to Righetti Ranch Road and follow the signs. Or please feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to schedule a personal appointment to discuss San Luis Obispo’s most attractive new home neighborhood.
Selling! Pricing starts from the low $1 millions. Ladera
Pinder first remodeled their guest house and were able to live in it during construction in order to be available to address any questions or unforeseen obstacles. The couple are fully embracing all that the Central Coast has to offer. Their home has a unique balance of feeling like a warm residence, but carries the interest similar SLO LIFE
Another article could be written about the history and beauty behind each art piece displayed in their home, but that is a story for another day.
58 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 to a museum. Each piece of art has a home and a story to accompany it. The art piece I was most fascinated by is the pair of shields that live next to their front door. The shields are made from elephant and buffalo hide and showcase the coming of age for boys in Africa. They were tasked with hunting a large animal and the shields even display the piercing of the spear.
DAVID LALUSH is an architectural photographer here in San Luis Obispo.
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE
$1,606,333$1,646,111997.58%104 2020 $1,187,400$1,232,333396.35%67 +/-26.08%-66.67%-25.14%-1.23%-35.58%
Average
$745,900$751,4651099.26%24 2020 $800,2558$795,45199.40%59 +/-20.00%6.49%6.64%99.10%145.83%farmtank
Total Homes Sold Average Asking Price Average Selling Price Sales Price as a % of Asking Price Average # of Days on the Market 2019 $970,9867$948,77197.71%37 2020 $1,069,900$1,081,7001098.91%10 +/-72.97%42.86%11.40%12.77%1.20%cal areapoly
Average
Average
countryclub
Average
Total Homes Sold Average Asking Price Average Selling Price Sales Price as a % of Asking Price Average # of Days on the Market 2019
Total Homes Sold Average Asking Price Average Selling Price Sales Price as a % of Asking Price Average # of Days on the Market 2019
Total Homes Sold Asking Price Selling Price Sales Price as a % of Asking Price Average # of Days on the Market 2019 $887,50011$862,08297.14%51 2020 $754,31414$762,179101.04%51 +/-15.01%27.27%-11.59%3.90%0.00%
johnsonave *Comparing
foothillblvd
ESTATEREAL NUMBERSTHEBY lagunalake
Total Homes Sold Asking Price Selling Price Sales Price as a % of Asking Price # of Days on the Market 2019 $784,74821$771,16298.27%31 2020 $1,048,078$1,084,1331896.67%60 +/-14.29%38.15%35.91%-1.60%93.55% 01/01/19 - 05/20/19 to 01/01/20 - 05/20/20
60 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 SOURCE: San Luis Obispo Association of REALTORS® | SLO CITY SLO LIFE
Total Homes Sold Average Asking Price Average Selling Price Sales Price as a % of Asking Price Average # of Days on the Market 2019 $819,03923$801,34397.84%24 2020 $667,969$674,8631698.98%57 +/-30.43%-17.60%-16.64%1.14%137.50%
Average
$743,20018$723,39697.34%55 2020 $1,005,485$1,036,5791997.00%24 +/-56.36%39.00%39.48%5.56%-0.34%downtown
Total Homes Sold Average Asking Price Average Selling Price Sales Price as a % of Asking Price Average # of Days on the Market 2019
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 61 Donna Lewis NMLS ID: 245945, CA - CA-DOC245945 • Dylan Morrow NMLS ID: 1461481, CA - CA-DBO1461481 • Maggie Koepsell NMLS ID: 704130, CA - CA-DBO704130 • Phyllis Wong NMLS ID: 1400281, CA - CA-DBO1400281 • Luana Gerardis NMLS ID: 1324563, CA - CA-DBO1324563 • NMLS ID #2611 (Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) • CA - Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight, Division of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act Lic #4130699 • Joe Hutson NMLS ID: 447536, CA - CA-DOC447536 • Ken Neate NMLS ID:373607; CA - CA-DBO373607 Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Restrictions may apply, contact Guaranteed Rate for current rates and for more information. Guaranteed Rate is not affiliated with SLO Food Bank. Donations received are collected directly by SLO Food Bank and not GUARANTEED RATE. Maggie Koepsell VP of Mortgage Lending O: (805) 335-8742 C: (805) maggie.koepsell@rate.com674-6653 Donna Lewis Branch Manager/ VP of Mortgage Lending O: (805) 335-8743 C: (805) donna.lewis@rate.com235-0463 Luana Gerardis VP of Mortgage Lending O: (805) 329-4087 C: (707) luana.gerardis@rate.com227-9582 Joe Hutson VP of Mortgage Lending O: (831) 205-1582 C: (831) joe.hutson@rate.com212-4138 Rate.com/offices/CASanLuisObispo1065 1065 Higuera Street, Suite 100, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Phyllis Wong VP of Mortgage Lending O: (805) 706-8075 C: (805) phyllis.wong@rate.com540-8457 Let’s keep the conversation going. Contact us today. Dylan Morrow VP of Mortgage Lending O: (805) 335-8738 C: (805) dylan.morrow@rate.com550-9742 100% digital mortgage. Safe. Simple. Secure. Ken Neate VP of Mortgage Lending O: (805) 706-8074 C: (925) ken.neate@rate.com963-1015 Please join us in supporting the SLO Food Bank during these unprecedented times. Many of our neighbors are struggling and the demands at the SLO Food Bank have increased exponentially. As a sponsor of this year’s Hunger Awareness Day on June 5th, we are asking our friends, families, and neighbors to consider a contribution to the SLO Food Bank. Just $5 can feed 3 families of four for a day. Please go to slofoodbank.org/donate or text “FEED805” to 707070 to donate today.
| SLO COUNTY SLO LIFE Arroyo CountywideTempletonSantaSanPasoPasoPasoPasoPismoOceanoNipomoMorroLosGroverCrestonCayucosCambria/SanAvilaAtascaderoGrandeBeachSimeonBeachOsosBayBeach(InsideCityLimits)(North46-East101)(North46-West101)(South46-East101)LuisObispoMargarita BY THE NUMBERS 2019 9291071161048123384947991843135214121123834 2020 82410410754417144424070243396203717112741 REGION NUMBER OF HOMES SOLD 2019 11880696699347685875541326148895452477558 2020 1091644765288852562867528556535578501199762 AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET 2019 $1,096,768$1,250,737$565,342$818,039$842,953$811,917$836,667$540,837$645,224$642,271$646,785$573,250$1,253,929$542,185$486,524$542,656$537,670$888,392$737,697$697,940 2020 $1,109,477$800,944$569,824$815,642$1,257,912$956,000$567,302$653,464$655,301$699,460$563,760$849,537$539,278$698,830$596,172$618,118$926,547$578,057$825,649$713,104 MEDIANPRICESELLING SOURCE: San Luis Obispo Association of REALTORS ®*Comparing 01/01/19 - 05/20/19 to 01/01/20 - 05/20/20 REAL ESTATE NMLS 395723 Sanblerner@flagstarretail.com1212MarshSt.,Suite1LuisObispo,CA93401 Ben Lerner (805) 441-9486 * Top 200 Mortgage Originator | Mortgage Executive Magazine Equal Housing Lender Member FDICflagstarretail.com Est. 1987© 2020 Flagstar Bank Not a commitment to lend. Programs available only to qualified borrowers. Subject to credit approval and underwriting terms and conditions. Programs subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Let me help you purchase oryourrefinancehome. Contact me today to learn more. *
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 63 Sustainable Materials | General Contracting Services | Custom Cabinet Shop | Interior Designers All under one roof. CA Contractor License slogreengoods.com#940512111 South Street, San Luis Obispo (805) 543-9900 onlivetoarteclectic,smart, 1599 Monterey Street | 805.544.5900 | sloconsignment.com (at the corner of Grove Street, across from Pepe Delgados) Open Monday - Saturday 10-6pm "Not planning for the expected can cause unnecessary confusion and stress." Paul Sullivan, Wealth Matters New York Times We can help you during these uncertain times by setting up an affordable Living Trust. � In Trust Legal Legal Document Assistance InTrustLegal.com Call Today for a FREE Consultation. (805) 439-0715 Mention this ad for $50 Off. We are not a law firm and cannot give legal advice. We can only provide self-help services at your specific request. SLO Reg. No. 250.
>>
LAUREN HARVEY is a creative writer fueled by a love of cooking, adventure, and naps in the sun.
From a psychological perspective then, self-care is less about good skin care and more about developing, as Parido says, “better capabilities to adapt to change, value-driven priorities, and actions fueled from a moral foundation.” Self-care is a layered individualistic practice, developed in multiple areas. Here, we’ll cover some basic elements of self-care to integrate into daily routine aiming to enrich your life and the lives of those around you.
| HEALTH
BY LAUREN HARVEY
THE ART OF SELF-CARE
Self-care has seen a recent boom in popularity. Trendy social media hashtags like #SelfCareSaturday may propagate the perception that the essence of quality self-care lies in a sequence of facial masks and bubble baths. While these pampering moments are important aspects of whole self-care, the concept entails a much more in-depth maintenance of mind, body, and soul. For a professional perspective on the proper practice of self-care, I reached out to a Central Coast local and Master Practitioner, Tricia Parido of Turning Leaves Recovery, Life and Wellness Coaching. Parido defines self-care as “a crucial factor in creating a satisfying, well-balanced, and highly functioning life. Caring for our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual fitness keeps us in touch with who we are, the passions that fuel us, and the purpose that drives us.” Beyond physical, external
maintenance, self-care asks us to pay attention to ourselves and tend to our innermost emotional and intellectual needs.
#1 BURNOUTBEAT
66 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
FOCUSFOOD#3
When we neglect emotional, spiritual, and intellectual needs, we risk wearing ourselves down to the point of burnout. In a 2018 self-care article published by Psych Central , psychotherapist Emily Griffiths, LPC explains the connection between self-care and burnout as such, “When we lose sight of our self-care practices, we can experience burnout which sets [us] up for getting sick, overwhelmed, and exhausted.” Forgoing our self-care time or merely not making that time a priority can be a dangerous game.
Self-care that combats burnout is an all-encompassing care that connects spiritually, physically, socially, and emotionally. If this seems overwhelming, start small and simple. Jennifer Shepard, Central Coast local and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist suggests “making a list of activities you can engage in that will allow you to feel recharged, relaxed and provide a sense of tranquility.” Set time aside for purposeful rest, engage in a hobby activity that brings creative joy, or simple at-home spa time. If intuition suggests you need a break, it may be worthwhile to listen.
To illustrate, think of caring for a houseplant. Left unattended, the plant thirsts for nourishment and lacking water will eventually wither into a mess of dried leaves. Without paying attention, you’ll miss the signs the plant needs water in the first place like dry dirt, and the lackluster appearance of the leaves. The attention inherent in care is something then, we owe to ourselves as well. Parido terms it, “staying in touch with your state of being.” Becoming aware of our feelings, needs, and desires may be the unglamorous counterpart of the bubble baths of self-care, but nonetheless as essential.
Perhaps the most basic place to start self-care is to become self-observant.
To truly take care of ourselves, then, we first need to become aware of exactly what it is we need.
ANDWATCHLEARN
To tackle this feat, Parido suggests, “Check in [with yourself] every two hours until you get the hang of it.” Diving into our feelings, setting a mandatory check-in may seem like it would bring more discomfort than relief. But, as Parido explains, “If you aren’t present enough to know what prompts a mental or emotional spiral in the wrong direction, you’ll be hard-pressed to stop or care for it before it infects your entire day.”
Though it may not be immediately associated with self-care, what we eat is an important element of how we treat ourselves. In addition to affecting physical well-being, food has the power to keep our minds working and alert. According to Tchiki Davis, Ph.D., in a 2018 Psychology Today article, “eating [certain] foods can help prevent short-term memory loss and inflammation, both of which can have long-term effects on the brain, and in turn, the rest of the body.” Just like all self-care is personal and needs to be tailored to the individual, so is Certaindiet.foods have higher anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and pro/ prebiotic elements; however, if you’re allergic or intolerant, the negatives outweigh the positive benefits. Find alternatives that work for you and focus on the foods that make your body feel good. In a 2018 Psych Central article, Kristen Brunner, MA, LPC, puts foodfocused self-care in simple terms, “choose food … that [is] delicious to you and say no to anything that makes you feel awful.” Our personal relationship with food is often complex. This makes it an even more important aspect of self-care. Try paying closer attention to what you eat, when you eat it, and ultimately, how it makes you feel, both physically and cognitively. #2
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 67 Savor 805-215-0511www.GardensbyGabriel.comEverydaythelic.#887028
Solitary or social, restful or active, our time of self-care must be mindful and rejuvenating. After all, it is in these moments, where we are completely and wholly cognizant of the present moment that fills us most with joy and gratitude. Taking some time to put self-care first may be the key to unlocking greater fulfillment in other areas of life.
68 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
Different forms of physical activity bring additional benefits, particularly when done outside, in close proximity to nature. Thinkers and writers from Aristotle to William Wordsworth found the value of walking outside for mental clarity and stimulation. A 2012 study published in the PLOS ONE Journal , found a “cognitive advantage to be realized if we spend time immersed in a natural setting.” The study attributes this cognitive advantage in part to natural stimuli being processed as an emotionally positive experience. Adding a hike, beach jog, or leisure walk to your self-care routine could prove physically and emotionally beneficial.
FINAL WORD
MOVINGGET#4
Finding time, even ten minutes a day, for essential self-care practices may be the biggest obstacle we face. General busyness, taking care of others, and the pressure of productivity may get in the way of taking time for you. Master Practitioner Tricia Parido recommends a method of block scheduling to effectively manage time, stay focused, and build self check-in time into daily routine. Parido suggests, “Plan [your day] in two-hour time blocks and focus on your top five priorities, using action plans.” Using timers or planners can be effective to manage this routine. With this method, take a few minutes at the end of each time block check in physically, mentally, and emotionally, and make adjustments as needed. Additionally, you can use life planning to schedule self-care like you would any other appointment. As Tchiki Davis, PhD states, “It’s extremely important to plan regular self-care time.” What that time includes, however, is up to the needs of the individual, and could change daily. Ideas include a hot bath and a good book, a block of social time among friends, or a family game night.
ANDDIVIDECONQUER#5 755 Alphonso Street . SLO [off Broad Street] 8420 El Camino Real . 805.439.1881Atascaderorevslo.com DURING THE TOUGH TIMES WE BRING YOU WORKOUTS YOU CAN DO LIVE FROM HOME OR ON YOUR OWN TIME NO WEIGHTS REQUIRED WE ALSO OFFER OPTIONS TO RENT OR BUY EQUIPMENT INCLUDING SPIN BIKES!! LOSE WEIGHT . BURN FAT GET IN SHAPE BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM FOR MORE INFORMATION EMAIL US AT INFO@REVSLO.COM bootstreamlivecamp live stream spin
SLO LIFE
In a society full of Fitbits and Smart Watches, tracking physical activity seems to be more accessible than ever. Getting up and moving is important not only to our physical health, but also to our mental and emotional health. Tchiki Davis, PhD, says, “Daily exercise can help you both physically and mentally, boosting your mood and reducing stress and anxiety.” From the gym to a yoga class, getting moving is an essential component of self-care.
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 69 Facilitated by Lynne Biddinger & Jennifer Porcher This 6-month program will develop key leadership skills, build connections,professionalencouragepersonalgrowthandteachthevalueofreflection.Women’sLeadership Program Who should attend Emerging women leaders, managers and entrepreneurs looking to grow their leadership skills, maximize their impact and build a strong community with other women leaders. Six-months to transform your life and leadership unlock-potential up LEADERS • TEAMS • CULTURE unlock-potential.com Our next program series unlock-potential.comRegisterAugust,begins2020now: Online programs being offered during COVID-19 Dr. Daniel is still serving up super smiles! Call to schedule your appointment today! Specializing in Smiles Dr. Daniel Family Orthodontics 1356 Marsh Street . San Luis Obispo (805) 543-3105 . drdanielortho.com
I or “community supported agriculture”) has increased since mid-March. And by increased, I mean exploded. A farm box is, after all, one of the most elegant solutions to the modern home cook’s dilemma: How can I avoid long lines, eat fresh, and support my community? I took on the enviable (and formidable) task of trying three of these farm boxes, the result being some of the most beautiful meals on our table in a long time. >>
BY JAIME LEWIS
Farm Boxes
70 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 | TASTE
The answer of course is yes, they have, in so many ways. With regard to food, the landscape has shifted dramatically for all of us over the last couple
JAIME LEWIS writes about food, drink, and the good life from her home in San Luis Obispo. Find her on Instagram/Twitter @jaimeclewis.
So,months.itshould come as no surprise that demand for local farm boxes (or “farm shares,” “harvest boxes”
Three local produce companies offer home cooks the cream of the crop.
s it just me or have things changed since this column last published?
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 71
RUTIZ FAMILY FARM
Across the street from a residential neighborhood, the Rutiz Farmstand usually hums with shoppers picking up tangerines, local honey, sourdough, and tomato starters, not to mention “Jerry’s Berries,” which have a cult following. But lately, the stand has seen a different kind of activity— and lots of it.
“In the last month, our ‘pre-made bag’ sales have increased seven- to eight-fold,” says Jerry Rutiz, whose farm box program began in 2005. Rutiz says that, due to present health concerns, he can’t pack his farm shares in returnable boxes, but is using bags instead. And rather than offering one box per week, as he has in the past, these days he is offering a different bag each day to meet the demand.
“Every bag has nine to ten different items, but each day we change up the items offered,” he says, adding that people can expect their bag to contain four to five veggie items and four to five fruits. The day I receive my bag, I grill the artichokes and asparagus, toss a salad with the lettuces, and make a greyhound cocktail with the grapefruit. The mint garnishes a plate of tahini rice noodles the next day, the avocado graces my tacos, and the potatoes go into a nicoise salad. >>
I head down to Lincoln Deli in SLO, one of seventy Talley pickup points between Paso Robles and Goleta. At the Talley truck, I’m handed an “Original” box, filled to the brim with fresh quality produce, expertly packed. I’m most dazzled by two gorgeous heads of butter lettuce, which I turn into turkey lettuce wraps for dinner. The shelling peas become a bright pea soup, the avocados become guacamole, and the apples, celery, and kiwis are for snacking. But if I wasn’t sure what to make? Chavez provides recipes for the produce directly in the box. “I was taught from a young age to cook,” she says, “and I love it.” >>
TALLEY FARMS
72 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
“We have tripled in size in the last month,” says Andrea Chavez, who manages the Talley Farms Fresh Harvest Box program, started in 2012. “Currently we’re at 4,000 boxes a week,” she adds. “That will go up next week.”
NOW OFFERING Touch Free Service Options 24/7 Quick Drop Off & Pick Up Complimentary Concierge Service Mention this ad to RECEIVE $10 OFF your next service. MAINTAINING EXCELLENCE FOR 40 YEARS San Luis Obispo 805.242.8336 Santa Maria 805.316.0154 RIZZOLISAUTOMOTIVE.COM We Service ALL Makes and Models. Voted locals favorite since 1987 ( 8 0 5 ) 5 9 5 1 9 6 2 805.927.0374 . ecotoneslandscapes.com . LIC # 767033 Drought-Tolerant, Lifestyle Landscapes Design . Build . Maintain EST. 1999
SLO VEG: a selection of produce grown on different farms on the Central Coast, various sized boxes and frequencies, fruit-only boxes available, customizable, subscription-based, pickup points in North SLO County and home delivery across the rest of the county, add-ons, and recipe ideas available on website.
TALLEY FARMS: mostly organic practices, various sizes and frequencies, customizable, subscriptionbased, pickup points throughout the Central Coast as well as home delivery and overnight shipping in the Western US, recipes, prep and storage instructions included in each box.
74 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
When Rachael Hill launched SLO Veg in 2009, the goal was to deliver local food to subscribers, the day it was harvested, gathered from a collection of Central Coast farms. That goal has remained the same since, with more subscribers joining all the “Wetime.tripled our business in the last six weeks,” she says. “We’ve been able to purchase new vehicles and conveyors, streamlining our process to sustain the growth.” Hill adds that many SLO Veg farmers have planted more to supply her subscribers. “Yeah, it’s a big deal for them to purchase seed, plant it, and cultivate it. We’re hoping that customers continue to support farmers and keep that value there.”
“I don’t want any of this to go bad,” I say to my kids. “We need to eat every bit of fruit here.” They stare back at me, “Don’tunfazed.worry, Mom. We got this.” SLO LIFE
FARM TEAM: Which box is right for you?
Though SLO Veg offers a variety of veggie-and-fruit boxes, I try the fruit box, which is unique to their program. The “small” fruit box arrives at my door and takes me immediately by surprise: it is enormous. Satsumas, minneolas, navels, and cara caras cascade out of the box, a citrusy miracle on my kitchen counter. There’s also a clutch of delectable kiwis and two cartons of local strawberries.
SLO VEG
RUTIZ FAMILY FARM: organic practices, feeds 3-4 per week, available week-to-week as needed (no subscription), one box size for $20, pickup only at the farm, add-ons available at farmstand, recipes available on website.
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 75 PEACE. COMFORT. HEALING. Join our On-line Church Services at ChristianScience.comSundayServices Listen live on Sundays at 10 am or join audio replay available within 30–60 minutes after the service ends until Friday. Wednesday Testimony Participate in a weekly testimony meeting with people around the world on Wednesday at 2 pm. Hear others share insights, experiences, and healings they’ve had through their prayer and practice of Christian Science. For inspiration in the form of audio casts or links, talks and personal testimonials go to Prayerthatheals.org First Church of Christ, Scientist 1326 Garden Street, San Luis Obispo 805-543-5853 805-787-0451 LIC. # 1036406 freshpaintslo.com @freshpaintslo
| WINE NOTES
A
LIBBIE AGRAN is the Director of the Wine History of San Luis Obispo, dedicated to collecting, preserving, and presenting the intriguing local wine history.
science of making wine. He explains, “Wines are a living biological system. They are dynamic and subject to changes both fast and slow, good and bad.”
76 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
RaiseGlassYour
In 1978 Myers joined the staff of the Estrella River Winery in Paso Robles as Assistant Winemaker. The winery was the first to establish a lab for testing wine with stateof-the-art equipment and technology. The wines Myers made there have served as the prototypes for the trends and styles in the Paso Robles AVA, including Estrella River Cabernet Sauvignon, Castoro Cellars Zinfandel and red blends.
The answer: Myers had the experience, the passion, and the opportunity to produce more than enough wine to fill those bottles. Myers got his start when he received a Christmas gift containing a home winemaking kit from his wife Kathy on a cold winter day in Michigan—he was intrigued. In 1974 he applied for a license from the Commissioner of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms to become a home winemaker, producing fewer than 200 gallons annually. Myers began visiting wineries in his home state of Michigan and the more wine he made and tasted, the more interested he became in the science of winemaking. He applied to UC Davis in 1976 and was the first graduate with a Masters in Viticulture and Enology to be hired as a winemaker in San Luis Obispo County. He is known locally for his understanding on the
BY LIBBIE AGRAN
s of the 2019 harvest, Tom Myers is recognized as the winemaker who has filled over 190 million bottles with San Luis Obispo County wine during the last forty-one years. No one in the County has come close to this record. So, how can one man have made enough wine to fill that many bottles?
>>
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 77 SECURED CAPITAL FINANCIAL Real Estate ESTABLISHEDLoans1997SCF 531 MARSH STREET . SUITE A SAN LUIS OBISPO . CA 93401 P 805.594.1050 F 805.594.0626 NMLS# 345506, 269870 * Now 1955 Models or Newer *As Low as 5% Down Payment available on all years The New Affordable Housing MOBILE HOME LOANS IN OR OUT OF PARKS SmallAttention,Business Owners... Individual Offices & Suite Rentals • Affordable month-to-month rent • Conference Rooms, Break Room, Copy Center • Ideal location with easy freeway access • On-site parking • High Speed Internet and Utilities included Let us manage the details, so you can manage your business. SAN BUSINESSLUISCENTER WE HELP SMALL BUSINESSES GROW! 4251 S. Higuera Street | Suite 800 | San Luis Obispo Call to schedule your tour of available spaces! (805) 540-5100 Looking for a professional, convenient, affordable, and fully furnished individual office with conference room access?
Check out the documentary “Tom Myers: Made in Paso” on the Wine History Project’s Vimeo Channel. SLO LIFE Tom Myers 1985 Tom Myers present day photo credit Julia Perez
The opportunity to fill 190 million bottles opened up when he joined Castoro Cellars in 1990. Myers met Niels Udsen at Estrella River Winery when Udsen joined the staff in 1981. He mentored Udsen and scores of other local winemakers, as well as helped Udsen file the paperwork to establish his own label, Castoro Cellars in 1983. A few years later, Udsen not only established the first mobile bottling service owned and operated in San Luis Obispo County, but developed the custom crush business that is an integral part of Castoro Cellars’ business today.
John Alban of Alban Vineyards, Steve Dooley of Stephen Ross Wine Cellars, and Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon collaborated with Myers to produce their wines. He currently works with Trader Joes to make their brand of Central Coast wines.
Custom crush is the business of making wine for a client and bottling it with the client’s own label. When Myers became the winemaker in 1982 at Estrella River Winery, new wineries were opening around Paso Robles; most were small with little experience in viticulture or enology. Estrella River was producing a surplus of wine from their own vineyards. The winery offered custom crush services, bottling wine under labels established by Mission View in San Miguel, Barron and Kolb, Gary Eberle, John Munch and Udsen in Paso Robles. Caparone and Zaca Mesa wineries brought their own fruit to crush at Estrella.
Udsen developed a business model at Castoro Cellars to offer custom crush services before he planted his vineyards and built a winery. This enabled him to build capital for investment in his own winery. He crushed Zinfandel grapes, sourced locally and shipped the juice to Fetzer Vineyards, famous for White Zinfandel wines. Francis Ford Coppola and San Antonio wineries became clients. Winemakers
Myers has made bulk wine for wineries in Colorado, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota, Texas, and Wisconsin. He has shipped his wine to Brazil, Canada, China, England, Denmark, and France. Recently a New Zealand winery has been shipping their wine to him for a new custom crush service—canned wine.
Myers sees wine as one of the great foundations of western culture. He shares, “Without diminishing the wonder, the winemaking process can be explained by the sciences. That appealed to me and played a large part in my decision to pursue a winemaking career. It was an idea that melded the appeal of making something I feel is spiritually and physically beneficial to civilization; I discovered my ideal career.” Want to learn more?
78 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020 Myers is best known for his Zinfandels. “The distinctive and amiable characters of Zinfandel entitle it to rank among the noble varieties of the world. It is our heritage grape,” he explains. The alchemy and artistry of winemaking continue to fuel his passion for making wine.
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 79 805.215.0428 | dunngardens.com | 714.362.4618 @dunn_gardens DesignLandscapePersonalized WIRELESS INTERNET FOR THE CENTRAL COAST NO CONTRACTS . NO DATA LIMITS INSTALLATION ONLY $99 805.556.4065 | peakwifi.com
FORBREWEDGOOD
80 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
I recently spoke to Dylan Roddick, co-owner and brewer at the newly opened Oak and Otter Brewing Co. on Tank Farm Road, about his fresh beer release benefiting the Land Conservancy which is part of a larger plan to have a continually rotating brew dedicated to a local non-profit. The idea is simple and effective—make a batch of beer and donate a portion of each sale to a non-profit. Once the batch is over, a new organization is chosen, and a new beer brewed. The Land Conservancy chose a pale ale style, and
hat a wonderful, supportive community we have here. Someplace warm, a place where the beer flows like wine. (Did you catch the “Dumb and Dumber” reference?) I’m talking about a little place called San Luis Obispo. In an ongoing effort to out-scratch each other’s
backs, I’m highlighting one of the breweries, and broad endeavors our local beer scene is affecting to coalesce people and the brewing industry of this county.
BY BRANT MYERS
>> | BREW
W
JUN/JUL 2020 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | 81 3076 Duncane Lane . San Luis Obispo 805 549 0100
keep cash flowing to local businesses, but also a fantastic way to have a brewery experience at home. To be able to go through a portfolio of beers from the same maker over the course of a week will give you the ability to acquire a taste of the maker’s craft. You might be able to pick up the nuances of a house yeast, a favorite hop varietal that a brewer uses, or even appreciate how one person at one brewery can create so many different flavors and styles. You might even discover something new. So, drink fresh beer and have fun while supporting your friendly neighborhood brewery.
I realized after talking to Roddick just how important it is to support local breweries in the same way we support our non-profits. Since that day, I have chosen a new brewery every week to place an order. It’s been a fun way to not only
SLO LIFE the Pismo Preserve Pale Ale was created. A slightly tweaked version of their flagship Hollister Peak Ale, this recipe opted for Zythos and Eukanot hops versus traditional west coast citrus-y pales to provide a more earthy and floral aroma. Sounds like a good pairing to the also recently opened coastal Pismo Preserve trail Roddick,system.and fellow owner Anthony Ponsey, hatched this plan at the beginning of the year as a way to connect with the community stating, “We’re a small business, and non-profits are as well, so it just seemed to be a perfect match.” The Pismo Preserve Pale Ale may be a new beer benefiting a new foundation, but they plan on keeping their program rolling. One dollar from each of their crowler sales goes toward the non-profit at the moment. I was especially thirsty after talking to Roddick, so I ended our call and had my brewery fresh beers before five o’clock. Well, I cracked that Pale Ale first thing, handed the IPA to my wife, and popped the Kölsch in the fridge for tomorrow’s pizza night. He wasn’t joking about the earthy floral aromas; it reminded me of the old school pales that started the hoppy revolution decades ago. Then wrestling the other can away from my wife, I tried their Hoppy Otter, which came in with big citrus notes from Mosaic and Amarillo hops which brought me back to the present day IPA scene. Mmm, there’s just something about fresh draft beer that gets me excited. Did the Kölsch survive until the next day? Don’t judge me.
BRANT MYERS is a 14-year veteran of the Central Coast craft beer industry who enjoys sharing his passion with anyone who doesn’t put an orange in their hefeweizen.
82 | SLO LIFE MAGAZINE | JUN/JUL 2020
