Aaron Bergh | Calwise Spirits Co

RISING TO THE OCCASION Master Distiller Aaron Bergh pivots from distilling gin to manufacturing hand sanitizer

By Nicholas Mattson

Local distiller meets needs of first responders and other agencies in desperate need by converting the Calwise Spirits Co. distillery to sanitizer production.

Proprietor and master distiller Aaron Bergh made the pivot after seeing calls from agencies serving the community’s most vulnerable, and invites additional agencies in need to contact him.

“It concerns me that our community servants don’t have sufficient sanitizer at a time when they need it more than ever,” said Bergh, who is known for producing craft gins and rums at his distillery in south Paso Robles. “I realized that my equipment and supply chain expertise could help out these everyday heroes as they work tirelessly to keep us safe.”

In a short amount of time, Bergh has started supplying bulk hand sanitizer to the Templeton Fire Department, San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority, the Camarillo Police Department, 40 Prado Road Homeless Services Center, SLO Food Bank, and others. Most sobering was a call he received from the FBI field office in Los Angeles. His first reaction was cautionary.

“Am I doing something wrong?” Bergh said. “Is this real? Is this somebody posing as an agent?”

The disconcerting feelings are understandable considering Bergh’s family history. During prohibition, the feds shut down his great-great-grandfather’s moonshine operation, and a call from the FBI could certainly have disturbed the family spirits.

After sifting through reactionary thoughts, he was assured that it was the FBI in need of sanitizer, and his curiosity turned to surprise. “They are organized, and you would think they have access to supplies,” Bergh said, “but they are out just like everyone else.”

Being a local source for a federal agency in a time like this lifted the spirits of Bergh, and he said he hoped others would be inspired to do what they could to help in this time.

“They have agents out in the field as part of the COVID-19 response team, and they are worried about running out of hand sanitizer,” Bergh said. “This sanitizer is going to make a huge difference in keeping them and the public safe.”

GETTING THE WORD OUT First responders, government agencies, and charities in need of hand sanitizer may also contact Bergh at sanitizer@calwisespirits. com. His current pricing — based on existing supply costs — is $15 per gallon, which stands in contrast to the high markups seen elsewhere on hand sanitizer.

“I hope to get more of our hand sanitizer out there so that our public servants can safely do their jobs in this time of crisis,” Bergh said. A COMMUNITY EFFORT According to Bergh, the FDA has given distilleries the authority to produce sanitizer under World Health Organization standards. “As far as I know, this has never happened in the United States, it’s totally unprecedented,” he said.

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Bergh’s sanitizer is made with three key ingredients: glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, and ethanol alcohol, typically used for making spirits.

He is quick to point out that other local businesses have helped him secure necessary supplies, including Cook’s Vanilla, Golden Apple Cannabis, and RS Paul Construction.

“These companies have stepped up and helped make a difference,” Bergh said. “This is truly a community effort.”

However, Bergh is concerned about possible future supply chain issues and is hoping to crowdsource additional supplies, if needed.

“Although I’m adequately stocked right now, I’m concerned about supplies running out, and I may be needing additional hydrogen peroxide and glycerin, as well as large bottles and other containers for packaging,” he said. “I invite anyone who might have inventory or access to these items to contact me.”

DISTILLING A DREAM Before turning his 6,000 square foot facility into a sanitizer plant, the 27-year old California native had landed in Paso Robles to produce local spirits with a local flavor.

“I got started out of college,” Bergh said. “I was a hobbyist and worked as a home distiller. People wanted to drink quality local spirits, so I decided to go legit.”

Perhaps nothing is as legit as the

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Premium

www.prsafeandlock.com • prsafeandlock@gmail.com

Calwise flagship spirit, Big Sur Gin, made with light sage, bay, and elderberry.

“We want to make spirits that give you a sense of place,” Bergh said. “Big Sur Gin is made with grapes and local plants that grow in Big Sur.”

The ingredients are sourced through local vendors, but some of it is harvested by hand during Bergh’s hikes through local hills and mountains.

Due to the coronavirus concerns and shel- ter-at-home orders by the State, it is unknown when Calwise will open back up for regular business — which had included a restaurant, tastings, and cocktails made to order.

“I wish I could remember what regular business was like,” Bergh said.

LIFTING SPIRITS In the meantime, Calwise continues to manufacture sanitizer for agencies. The adap- tation from spirits to sanitizer happened quickly.

“It was such a day-by-day thing,” Bergh said. “I thought I’d have to restrict my hours and capacity; then we got shut down completely.” Sitting on a supply of ethanol alcohol, and hit with the same wave of uncertainty as every- one else, Bergh hesitated in moving forward. “I didn’t want to start making that and taking advantage of people who need it,” Bergh said. “Then I started noticing agencies calling out for needs.

Homeless shelters, food banks, hospitals, and other organizations began to feel the need for an otherwise ordinary industry commod- ity. With the demand, hand sanitizer became scarce.

I didn’t see any cost-effective opportunities or supplies for them,” Bergh said. “I have all the supplies here, and by the time I decided to begin, it took about 12 hours to get started production.”

Calwise has since produced 200 gallons of hand sanitizer and is continuing as supplies allow.

“It is a supply chain issue,” Bergh said. “It is a matter of connecting the dots, find- ing out who needs it, and getting it to those people. I’ve always liked working on solving the puzzle of logistics.”

By jumping in and helping, Bergh said he hoped to inspire others to make a difference — from volunteering at food banks to deliv- ering meals to seniors — it was about taking action.

“You can make a difference in the commu- nity,” Bergh said.

While Bergh’s focus is on agencies, he is also working on 5-ounce sizes of the hand sanitizer to provide local consumer needs. 20 | pasoroblesmagazine.com

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Horseback Riding on the central coast Options abound, from riding on the range to beautiful ocean views

If you haven’t explored the Central Coast by horseback, then you haven’t really experienced it! As an area with a rich history in agriculture and desperados, traditions like horseback riding are offered on both sides of the Cuesta Grade. By Camille DeVaul

CENTRAL COAST TRAIL RIDES If you are a lover of wine and want a unique experience, Crystal Hallett at Central Coast Trail Rides, based in Creston, has plenty to offer. Specializing in horseback rides with some of the area’s most famous wineries, they currently have rides with five different packages and more in the works.

Hallett and her husband Brian operate the business together as a family with their two children, Taylen, 7, and Mattix,15. Soon, riders can look forward to having little Taylen as one of their lead wranglers! To give customers the best experience possible, they partner with some of the area’s most well-known wineries, ranches, vineyards, and resorts.

Central Coast Trail Rides brings their customers packages with Cass Winery, Halter Ranch, Calcareous Vineyard, and a ride at Santa Margarita Lake. One of Hallett’s newest partnerships includes Hearst Ranch.

“We ride at the Hearst Ranch and were pretty proud of that one,” Hallett said. “The Hearst Castle property out there in San Simeon is; definitely, I’d say one of my most prideful connections and partnerships.”

Along with her partnerships at local wineries and ranches, guests at hotels and rentals such as Allegretto Vineyard Resort, Camatta Ranch, and others can inquire about their “stay and play” options.

Hallett is consistently creating new partnerships to offer as many diverse options as possible.

“Always expanding into new properties, new places to ride, new package opportunities,” Hallett said. “Big hills that we switch back onto the top to get the California Coastline views. That is called Cottontail Creek Ranch in Cayucos and that’s our newest, the only one that has ocean views.” The cost of rides ranges anywhere from $95 to $165 per person, depending on location and length of the trip. Groups from two up to 14 people can book with beginning to expert riders welcome. With 27 horses to choose from, riders are sure to find their perfect match. If you are looking to create a special moment — say a proposal — Hallett and her husband are happy to help those dreams come true for you! There are many new opportunities in the works for Central Coast Trailrides. Riders can expect new experiences with more of the area’s favorite wineries.

For more information on Central Coast Trailrides, their horses and experiences offered, head to cctrailrides. com.

FOSS FARMS Local little ones who are itching to get out on horseback can look to Jenn Foss at Foss Farms for horseback riding lessons. Foss has been providing riding lessons since she was 18 years old. She moved to San Luis Obispo when she was 19 from San Jose and never looked back. She and her husband settled on a small ranch in Atascadero, where she started Foss Farms. With a background in early childhood education and development, Foss specializes in children ages 2 to 12. “The opportunities range from me going onto their property giving lessons on their own personal horse, or they come to our house in Atascadero,” Foss said. “I have two lesson horses to choose from, and my more advanced students have the option of showing with me at local schooling shows.” There are several lesson

packages riders can choose from, all within an accessible price range. Half-hour lessons are $35, and full-hour lessons run at $50, both having package options available. It is essential to Foss that her lessons are at a realistic cost for all families. Both of Foss’s horses are rescue horses. Her first horse, Thomas, is a rescue horse from North Dakota and has provided more than 100 students comfort as they take one of their first riding lessons.

“We didn’t grow up with a lot of money in San Jose—we couldn’t really afford lessons,” Foss said. “I want to keep my prices affordable and competitive and realistic.”

Along with riding lessons, Foss owns and operates her own micro or urban-farm.

“We farm heirloom vegetables, usually year-round depending on the season obviously and we raise chickens that are show quality and

I also raise quail for meat and egg production,” Foss said.

Foss humanely and ethically raises her quails from incubation to butcher herself and is the only known quail farmer in the area. She specifically raises Japanese Coturnix Quail for meat and eggs. Her products can be found at local vendors like Nature’s Touch in Templeton, SLO Natural Co-Op in San Luis Obispo, Railroad BBQ in Paso Robles, and more. If you’re in the area, be sure to visit the farm stand in front of Foss Farms and get some fresh produce!

Visit foss-farm.com to book your riding lesson, shop for produce, and learn more about all Foss Farms has to offer!

MADONNA INN TRAIL RIDES If you’re a fan of pink champagne cake (honestly who isn’t), it might be in your interest to check out Madonna Inn Trail Rides. Since 2012, Haddie Townsend has been guiding rides at Madonna Inn for hotel guests and day visitors. Rides are suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

No matter your rider experience, the trails at Madonna are sure to impress. The three-and-a-half mile trail takes riders up Cerro San Luis overlooking San Luis Obispo and Laguna Lake, offering stunning views. A wine and cheese pairing with the trail ride package is also available to guests and visitors.

Rides at Madonna Inn run seven days a week, operating between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Ages 7 and up are welcome to ride. Small to large groups, with a max capacity of 15 riders, can make reservations by calling Haddie Townsend at (805) 550-5307 or visit madonnainn. com/trail-rides-1 for more information. When you’re done taking in the views on the mountain, treat yourself to taking in a piece of that champagne cake!

WORK RANCH At the edge of Monterey County, in the Cholame Hills, resides the Work Ranch. Since the 1880s, the Work family has owned and operated their 12,000-acre ranch in San Miguel. Now, they welcome guests from all over the world to explore the rolling hills they call home. Riders of all experience can partner with one of the Work’s well-tempered horses, or guests can bring their own!

With urban life miles away, you’ll be able to breathe and take in all the details nature has created. The majority of their land remains untouched by man as it did over 100 years ago. Rides are offered yearround with seasonal hours. Trails run an hour-and-a-half, with longer rides available upon request. Special rates are provided for groups of five or more.

If you are in search of an experience that showcases the untouched beauty of North County, Work Ranch is undoubtedly the place to be. To book a ride with the Work Ranch, call Kelly Work at (805) 610-0961 or visit workranch.com/ trail-rides-horseback-riding/ for more information on the Work Ranch and all their upcoming events!

HARRIS STAGE LINES Harris Stage Lines in Paso Robles makes it their business to embrace western traditions. Bring a picnic, visit the ranch and ride stagecoach just as they did in Paso Robles in the 1860s! Call Harris Stage Lines at (805) 237-1860 for more information on tours or to make a stagecoach part of your weddings and special events.

PISMO PRESERVE Those with their own horses who are looking for an ocean view are welcome to visit the Pismo Preserve. With 880 acres and 11 miles of trails, riders can enjoy scenic views of the Pacific Ocean from the Irish Hills to Point Sal. Trails are currently closed due to coronavirus concerns and lack of physical distancing by visitors.

Z RANCH In Templeton, guests can get cozy on one of Z Ranch’s cabins and plan a trail ride with vineyard views. Z Ranch has 22 acres and a 360 view of the hills, vineyards, and oak trees. Be sure to say hello to their horses, alpacas, and even a zebra!

Our Central Coast has a deep connection with western heritage. Because of this, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors and locals to see our countryside by horseback. This region has some of the most various and beautiful terrains. Each trail ride offered is different, always ensuring an unforgettable experience.

An outstanding horseback ride through the various terrain of the Central Coast can be the perfect activity for those visiting and even locals. Book a horse ride for your girls’ trip, celebrate a milestone, or your family Sunday Funday. No matter your reason, a journey through our beautiful county will be sure not to disappoint.

For all trailheads and rides, please call ahead to conf irm that operations are as listed, due to coronavirus concerns or state orders to close non-essential services.

pasoroblesmagazine.com | 23

COVID-19 Information Resources

ALL SLO COUNTY • SLO County Official Info www.readyslo.org • SLO County Official COVID-19 Page bit.ly/SLOcovid19 NORTH SLO COUNTY • Paso Robles Chamber pasostrong.org

• Templeton Chamber - Templeton Strong page bit.ly/tempopenbiz • Atascadero Chamber bit.ly/atasopenbiz OTHER COVID-19 RESOURCES • California COVID-19 Response Page covid19.ca.gov • CDC – Center for Disease Control bit.ly/cdccovidcases • WHO – World Health Organization bit.ly/whocovidadvice • Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Tracking bit.ly/covidtrackmap

Brought to you by the Paso Robles Press pasoroblespress.com/covid-19

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- nonprofit horse rescue moving to paso robles -

For almost 30 years, it has been Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s mission to eliminate the causes of equine suffering. They started their journey in Carmel with only a few volunteers, rescuing 15 horses their first year. Today, they are located in Lockwood, and have grown to become one of the most well-established equine rescues in Monterey County. The staff at Redwings are looking forward to moving into a new and permanent facility within the next year. Thanks to a donor’s generous bequest gift, the team at Redwings was able to purchase a 141-acre ranch at 6875 Union Road in Paso Robles, where construction for a new facility has begun. The latest move will allow an increase in volunteer capacity and educational outreach with more donor and sponsorship opportunities.

Redwings provides a sanctuary for horses from all kinds of backgrounds. From retired racing thoroughbreds to wild mustangs in the Pryor Mountains of Montana, all are welcome. There are many equines within our state with very uncertain futures. This creates a great need for organizations like Redwings Horse Sanctuary, which receives, on average, 20 calls or e-mails a month requesting help for an equine in need. The staff prioritizes the rescue and rehabilitation of the most at-risk horses. Sara Ruggerone, Redwings Equine Care Manager, said, “We’ve been working closely with SLO County Animal Services lately to take in abused, abandoned and neglected horses and bring them back to health and hopefully offer them out into adopted homes later on.” In some occurrences, these horses are unavailable to adopt and seek a forever sanctuary. Some of these are mustangs and burros from the Bureau of Land Management population control round-ups or rescues from Premarin farms.

But not all the rescues come from an abusive or neglected past. Some were service horses for organizations such as the border patrol who served our country. Others come from a partnering organization called the California Retirement Management Account. Through CARMA, the rescue accepts retired off-track California racehorses who came from loving owners and are highly adoptable.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary was founded in 1991 with a mission to end the abuse of horses, ponies, By Camille DeVaul

donkeys, burros, and mules. When their lease in Carmel came to an end, the owners of the property decided to sell their ranch, leaving the rescue to re-home. In 2000, they landed on a 167-acre ranch in Lockwood. By 2002, all 90 equines, staff members and volunteers made the transition to their new home.

The staff and residents of the sanctuary would like to send out a special thank you to Jack and Marilyn Clifton for generously leasing the Lockwood property to Redwings for the past 20 years.

Since 1995, the rescue has been established as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All veterinary costs, land lease fees, employee salary, and equine needs are paid for with much-ap

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Say hello to Lover Boy and Melissa. Photos by Jim Vincolisi

preciated donations. The rescue is accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, making it one of the most well-established horse rescues in the state. Those wanting to support Redwings can do so in several ways. If you wish to contribute, but can’t afford a donation, volunteers are always welcome at Redwings!

Desirae Cogdell, Redwings office manager, said, “All of our volunteers take a training course with Sara. We call it a level one class which teaches basic horsemanship — primarily, our volunteers groom and give extra love and attention.”

After completing the level one class, volunteers are welcome to come to the facility’s open hours, which take place Tuesday through Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and spend time with their level one equines. Tours and visiting hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at no cost to the visitor.

One of the best ways to contribute to Redwing’s cause is to go through their foster to adopt the program.

“We have a very unique adoption program — we don’t charge adoption fees at Redwings,” says Ruggerone.

Instead of paying an adoption fee and leaving, potential adopters must foster their horse for one year. The foster home is required to send monthly updates and expect quarterly visits from the staff at Redwings. “ We o f f e r b o t h r i d i n g horses as well as just companion horses,” Ruggerone said. “For somebody that maybe has a big beautiful pasture and one horse that is maybe a bit lonely.” Since the creation of their Foster to Adopt program in 2014, Redwings has placed a total of 52 horses in new homes. A total of 28 horses have been formally adopted and currently 24 in foster homes are on the path to adoption. For more information on the Foster to Adopt program, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.org/how-to-help/ foster-to-adopt.

Donations can be made through the Redwings website at redwingshorsesanctuary.org/donate or by calling their office at (831)-386- 0135. Donors can contribute through a one-time occurrence, a monthly donor program, or done through a horse sponsorship.

The caring staff at Redwings Horse Sanctuary is looking forward to their move to Paso Robles and have many exciting opportunities in the works for visitors!

The Rewings team breaking ground at their new permanent facility on Union Road in Paso Robles. Thanks to a donor’s generous bequest gift, horses get to graze a 141-acre ranch.

Trails Ahead By Jeannette Simpson

Spring is here and provides wonderful weather and seasonal sights that encourage us to go out and commune with nature. Lucky for us, San Luis Obispo County is an outdoor enthusiasts dream area because it is home to so many diverse beautiful natural places to roam and explore.

Many of the best known existing trails are found along our majestic coast with new trails opening recently and more planned to come. These are wonderful places to explore and visit and we encourage you to check them out too. Yet, closer to our own backyard, there are several great spaces and places to walk, jog, stroll and bike right here in North County. Whether you are seeking views, water features, hikes, biking, walking, jogging, horseback riding, kid-friendly, dog-friendly, bird watching activities or year round, seasonal and other helpful information, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a list of local nearby places that include a little something for everyone and provide useful information such as length of trail, difficulty rating, elevation gain, features, accessibility and activities lists and helpful notes to give you the basics and inspire your outings and adventures. Be sure to check for additional information, maps, directions, weather conditions, hazards, parking options and any fees required before you head out to ensure the best possible experiences. So grab a buddy and get out there and have fun!

As with any outdoor adventure it is wise to be prepared before you set out so make sure to check out our Pro Tips before you go!

atascadero lake park (loop) • Length: 1.3 Miles • Rated: Easy • Elevation Gain: 26 feet • Features: Lake, Views, Wild Flowers, Bird Watching • Activities: Hiking, Running, Walking, Paddle Sports, Nature Trips • Notes: Kid Friendly, best used March - September, Dogs on leash allowed, Right next to Zoo stadium park trail (loop) • Length: 1.9 Miles • Rated: Easy - Elevation Gain: 524 feet • Features: Views, Wild Flowers, Bird Watching • Activities: Walking, Hiking, Nature Trips, Running, • Notes: Kid Friendly, best used April - October, Dogs on leash allowed jim green trail (loop) • Length: 1.6 Miles • Rated: Easy • Elevation Gain: 167 feet heilmann regional park • Features: Forest, River, Views, Wild Flowers, Bird Watching, Wildlife • Activities: Walking, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Nature Trips, Running, Horseback Riding • Notes: Kid Friendly, Dogs on leash allowed three bridges oak preserve trail (loop) • Length: 3.5 Miles • Rated: Moderate • Elevation Gain: 669 feet • Features: Forest, River, Views, Wild Flowers, Bird Watching • Activities: Walking, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Nature Trips, Running, Horseback Riding • Notes: Kid Friendly, Dogs on leash allowed, Can be muddy boyscout bridge & loop, los padres national forest • Length: 4.6 miles • Rated: Moderate • Elevation gain:1,154 feet • Features: Views, forest • Activities: Hiking, running, walking, camping, nature trips • Caution: Poison Oak and tall grasses line trails cerro alto trail loop, los padres national forest • Length: 4.5 Miles • Rated: Difficult • Elevation Gain: 1,607 feet • $10 fee • Features: River, views, wildlife, wild flowers, bird watching, forest • Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, running, horseback riding, camping • Notes: Dogs on leash allowed. Starts half way between Atascadero and Morro Bay Atascadero

san luis obispo and south coast • Bishop’s Peak, San Luis Obispo • Madonna Mountain Loop, San Luis Obispo • Montana De Oro, Los Osos • Elfin Forest, Baywood Park/Los Osos • Bob Jones Trail, Avila Beach • Lighthouse Trail, Avila Beach • Pismo Preserve, Pismo

north coast • Cloisters Wetland to Morro Rock, Morro Bay • Harmony Headlands, Harmony • Estero Bay Bluff Trail, Cayucos • Whale Rock Reservoir, Cayucos • Cambria Boardwalk, Cambria • Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Trails, Cambria • Salmon Creek, Ragged Point

*While coronavirus concerns persist, remember to keep 6-feet physical distancing

salinas river walk • Length: 3.9 miles • Rated: Easy • Elevation Gain: 85 feet • Features: River, views, forest, wild flowers, bird watching • Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, running, walking, road biking • Notes: Kid-friendly, All skill levels, Dogs on leash allowed, Paved trail, Has a small park with playground

citypark trail • Length: .5 miles • Rated: Easy • Elevation Gain: 6 feet • Features: Views, bird watching • Activities: Walking, hiking, nature trips • Notes: Kid-friendly, all skill levels, dogs on leash allowed, wheelchair-friendly

centennial trail • Length: 1.9 miles • Rated: Easy • Elevation gain: 82 feet • Features: Views, wild flowers, bird watching, forest • Activities: Hiking, running, walking, road biking, city walk • Notes: Kid-friendly, all skill levels, dogs on leash allowed, paved trail, wheelchair-friendly

cuesta grade area, stagecoach road • Length: 5.4 miles • Rated: Moderate • Elevation Gain 859 feet • Features: Views, wild flowers, bird watching, wildlife • Activities: Hiking, walking, mountain biking, nature trips • Notes: Kid-friendly, dogs on leash allowed

Continued on Page 32

Cerro Alto. Contributed photo

Stadium Park. Photo by Luke Phillips

Atascadero Lake. Photo by Nicholas Mattson

Other Unique and Interesting Places • Biking Wine Tasting Tours with Tour Guides and Bike Friendly Transportation Vehicles • Vineyard or Farm Tours that can include walking, hiking, picnicking, ATV rides • Cal Poly Architecture Graveyard to view previous student building projects

better together It is more enjoyable to share your experiences but also much safer to be with a buddy in case of any emergency, yours or someone else’s.

h2o Our ever-shifting micro climates can fool us easily, but it gets warm, dry and windy at times so make sure you’ve got more than enough water with you for your journey.

snacking

If it’s going to be long day, you may want to bring a picnic, but having a few snacks with you is always a good idea, even on a short hike.

attire

Proper footwear and attire for the terrain and weather conditions are a must including layers, jackets, hats, tick/bug repellent, sunglasses and sunscreen, of course.

gear up Know your tools and equipment, check them for proper working order before you head out and bring basics: map, compass, flashlight, fire starter, knife/multi-tool, first aid kit (don’t rely on your cellphone which may not have a signal that many apps and maps need to work properly).

selfie evaluation A serious or life threatening injury just isn’t worth a social media shot. Always use common sense and err on the side of caution when taking photos and exploring.

wander inside the lines Stay on designated trails, do not trespass, be considerate of habitation, animals, plants, locals and other adventurers.

locking it up Make sure you leave valuables at home, do not leave wallets, purses, electronic devices in vehicles, lock your vehicles and take keys with you.

slo lanes When hiking or biking narrow country back roads, remember that cars often can’t see or hear you until it is too late to stop or slow down to avoid an accident. Be aware, be cautious and courteous. Wear visible clothing, stay single file around curves, on bridges and narrow sections.

check in, check out Let someone know your plans ,where and when you are heading out and when you’ll check back in.

pack in, pack out Be a good steward and bring anything you brought in with you, back out with you. Don’t litter!

Caring for Pets and their People!

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Questions? Call us.

Annual Trail Ride to Support

Historical Adelaida Schoolhouse Due to coronavirus concerns, changes may be made to the event after the date of this publication. Please check with event organizers

All are welcome to come and join the Annual Adelaida Round Up Trail Ride and BBQ this May 2, 2020!

The annual fundraiser, presented by the nonprofit Adelaida Historical Foundation, benefits the former Adelaida Schoolhouse. For over one century, the little one-room schoolhouse has stood off Chimney Rock Road. Surrounded by orchards and nestled at the bottom of a hillside, the building stands as a 103-year-old reminder of the once-bustling town of Adelaida. Days of one-room schoolhouses and riding horses to school instead of buses have passed. Evidence of these days has become harder and harder to come by, but next time you’re taking a drive through Adelaida looking for your next wine venture, take a turn onto Chimney Rock Road, where you’ll find one of the last pieces of the original town of Adelaida. The Adelaida Schoolhouse was initially built in 1917 as the Lincoln Schoolhouse. Back then, Adelaida acted as a way station for horses and riders to rest when transporting goods from the coast to inland. Travelers noticed the land in Adelaida was ideal for farming, and mining mercury, then settled the area. During its hey day, the community was home to three schools, three post offices, two general stores, and a dance hall. Students in first through eighth grades came to the schoolhouse for lessons until 1964. Afterward, the building stood through the weather and the test of time. Even after the town slowly dried up, the schoolhouse remained. It is now the only original Adelaida building still intact. The Adelaida Farm Bureau holds its monthly meetings there, just as they have done for more than a century. Although the building has done a remarkable job surviving on its own, she needs a little help.

The Adelaida Historical Foundation formed in 2003 to begin renovating the schoolhouse. The foundation is a nonprofit and entirely run by volunteers. Some of those attended the school before its closing. So many upgrades have already been made to the building! These updates include replacing the foundation, roof, and siding, and updating the kitchen and utility lines. But there is so much more to be done.

Luckily, the foundation has created an event where people can not only donate to keeping the schoolhouse alive but also have a great time. The Annual Adelaida Round Up Trail Ride and BBQ will begin at the schoolhouse with a trail ride at 9 a.m. and take folks around the unique surrounding terrain. The trail runs through the beautiful bordering properties, including Halter Ranch. If available, horses can be rented through Central Coast Trail Rides for an extra fee. Those bringing their The Annual Trail Ride will run through stunning properties, such as that of Halter Ranch. Photo by Adelaida Historical Foundation By Camille DeVaul

Continued on Page 35 34 | pasoroblesmagazine.com Paso Robles Magazine | April 2020

horse can expect a 4-5 mile trail, which comes to about a three-hour ride.

If riding isn’t an option for you, no worries! You can still join the fun on the Tenderfoot Wagon! This wagon leaves the station at 10 a.m. with both wagon and horse riders back by 1 p.m. for the barbecue and auction. Ticket donations are $100 for the trail ride and barbecue, $65 for the Tenderfoot Wagon ride and barbecue, or $40 for barbecue and back-hills jawing. Ages 7-18 are $20 for lunch only and free for ages six and under. All adult tickets include a raffle to win a mixed case of wine! This year’s proceeds will go toward improving the existing parking lot, adding AC and heating, and readying the building to host bigger events such as weddings. They are currently open to hosting smaller events as a unique and historical venue! The schoolhouse is more than an old building on the side of a country road, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains an active reminder of a community that once flourished to locals whose families were the area’s original homesteaders.

Anyone looking to join the fun and support the Adelaida Schoolhouse should call 805-674-4811 or go to adelaidahistoricalfoundation.org to ask about the 2020 trail ride, as many events have been canceled or postponed due to coronavirus concerns.