October 2010 Journal Plus

THE SLOBODNIKS | SLO “GRANFONDO” | HILARY ANDERSON | THE MARTINS

Journal PLUS OCTOBER 2010

MAGAZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST

PEOPLE’S SELF HELP HOUSING TURNS 40

Executive Director, Jeanette Duncan

Proceed With Confidence.

A Local Tradition ALL EXITS

Half a century of history. People you know and trust. Core values you can count on.

Some things never change.

Our Community. Your Bank.

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n this era of corporate crime and personal greed, who can you trust with your financial future?

An ethical local firm with a 50-year track record

My husband, Lyle, and I planned to retire at the same time and to make that work we needed to get some help with our finances. Lyle was lucky enough to run into Al Moriarty. After several conversations, Al helped us determine how much money we should put aside for our retirement and how to do it.

I suggest if you don’t have a financial advisor or you are not happy with the one you have, give Al a call. He is very good at explaining individual investments and continues to keep you updated on current economic situations. I know you will be real pleased.

Give yourself time to grow your savings, at least 5 years in advance of retirement. It might be real hard, but we followed Al’s advice and are more than satisfied…You will be also.

For teachers, go to Santa Maria CTA and get your secure printout of the years you’ve been teaching. They can tell you to the penny what you’ll retire with, what you can live on and what you need to put away. So between the CTA and a good retirement specialist like Al Moriarty, you will be in good shape.

Kathy Setencich, Retired, Vice President LMUSD Teachers Association, Paulding Middle School Lyle Setencich, Retired, Football Coach/Defensive Coordinator, Boise State, Cal Poly, Arizona State, University of Pacific, University of California and Texas Tech

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Phone: (866) 546-1366 Lic. No. 0144566

Al Moriarty Financial Advisor

CONTENTS

34 Journal PLUS MAGAZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST

The People, Community, and Business of Our Beautiful Central Coast ADDRESS

654 Osos Street San Luis Obispo California 93401

PHONE

805.546.0609

E-MAIL

slojournal@fix.net

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EDITOR & PUBLISHER Steve Owens ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Erin Mott GRAPHIC DESIGNER Dora Mountain COPY EDITOR Anne Stubbs PHOTOGRAPHER Tom Meinhold DISTRIBUTION Keith Malcomson

SYMPHONY OF THE VINES DEBUT

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SLO GRANFONDO

HILARY ANDERSON

ADVERTISING Jan Owens, Kristen Hathaway CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Stewart, Natasha Dalton, Hilary Grant, Sandy Baer, Joseph Carotenuti, Dr. Julian Crocker, Sarah Hedger, Frank Rowan, Maggie Cox, Deborah Cash, Allen Settle, Sarah Day, Julian Varela, Margaret Kensinger-Klopfer, Ruth Starr, Susan Pyburn, Jesse Sostrin, Gordon Fuglie and Phyllis Benson Mail subscriptions are available at $20 per year. Back issues are $2 each. Inquires concerning advertising or other information made by writing to Steve Owens, JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE, 654 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. You can call us at 546-0609, our fax line is 546-8827, and our e-mail is slojournal@fix.net. View the entire magazine on our website at www.slojournal.com JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE is distributed monthly free by mail to all single family households of San Luis Obispo and is available free at over 600 locations throughout the county.

Editorial submissions are welcome but are published at the discretion of the publisher. Submissions will be returned if accompanied by a stamped self addressed envelope. No material published in the magazine can be reproduced without written permission.

Opinions expressed in the byline articles are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE. Cover photo by Tom Meinhold

PEOPLE 10 12 14 16 18 20

TERRY PARRY & ELLEN PERRYESS JEANETTE DUNCAN/PSHH RANDY AND PAT MARTIN THE SLOBODNIKS EUNICE PIERCE HILARY ANDERSON

HOME & OUTDOOR 22 24 26 28 30 31

PULSE SLO “GRANFONDO” – BIKE RACE HOME DESIGN DISTRICT FOOD / AT THE MARKET KITCHEN IDEAS

COMMUNITY

32 34 36 37 38 40 54

SLO ART SCENE SYMPHONY OF THE VINES DEBUT OUR SCHOOLS Dr. Julian Crocker VETS VOICE HISTORY: Charles H. Johnson – part 4 HOSPICE CORNER/ SUDOKU PUZZLE ALMANAC – The Month of October

BUSINESS 43 48 49 50

DOWNTOWN SLO What’s Happening PALM STREET – SLO Councilman, Settle EYE ON BUSINESS THE BULLETIN BOARD

SLO COUNTY LIBRARIES

O C T O B E R

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FREE

,JUDIFO 4FNJOBST SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH IN HONOR OF OUR 26TH ANNIVERSARY

ALL DAY SATURDAY OCTOBER 9

Kitchen Fest 2010

10:30am - 12pm “How to Survive a Kitchen Remodel” Discuss the steps of a kitchen remodel from start to finish 1:00pm - 2:30pm “What’s New in Counters” Our counter fabricators will be here to present the latest in countertops & discuss care and maintenance. Q & A after.

3:30pm - 5:00pm “Before and After: Kitchen Remodels” A selection of before and after project pictures with discussion of design goals and solutions.

Free gourmet refreshments served between each session!

For your home. For your life.

For our environment.

/PX "WBJMBCMF BU %POOBµT *OUFSJPST

From the publisher

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his month we feature Peoples’ Self Help Housing’s Executive Director, Jeanette Duncan. PSHH is celebrating its 40th year and Duncan has been involved with the program from the beginning. You’ll enjoy her story.

We move on to two dynamic people, Terry Parry and Ellen Perryess, who have created a local non-profit group called Animal Shelter Adoption Partners (ASAP). Since there has been plenty of news on lost and found pets lately, we thought it would be timely to tell you their story.

We also update you on the goings on with the Slobodnik family. The Slobodniks continue to amaze us with their dancing, acting and musical talents. Theresa is teaming up with Gilbert Reed and after an 8-year break, The Christmas Carol is back. Theresa tells you all about it.

We recently had a request from one of our readers, Hilliard Wood, to write about the top ranked international biking team, HTC Columbia . The team is owned and operated by San Luis Obispo based High Road Sports. It just happens that there is a big biking event scheduled on the Central Coast this month, and we thought it would be a great time to write about the team and the event, called “SLO GranFondo.”

Finally, a new orchestra was formed recently in North County called Symphony of the Vines. They recently debut their talents at the Cass Winery. Natasha Dalton tells us all about their special story.

Enjoy the magazine,

Steve Owens 455 Double Pedestal Dining Table $0000 Upholstered Arm Chair $0000 Side Chair $0000 Bunching Curio $0000 5’ x 8’ Barron Rug

ne. Stylish. And on sale, too. The style possibilities are practically unlimited. And so are the saving gs Spree, you’ll save the amount equal to sales tax on practically everything in store at Thomasville, including Studio 455 collection. But come in soon. Before we put the brakes on these tax-break savings for good.

The Best Prices on Quality Toys!

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682 Higuera St. • San Luis Obispo • 541-2896 Santa Maria Town Center Mall • Santa Maria • 922-9700 Valid at both the SLO and Santa Maria stores. Offer valid through October 2010.

Not valid with any other offer or promotion, discount taken at register.

HELPING YOU SUCCEED

J. Todd Mirolla Gregory R. Morris Reese T. Davies

Robert E. Olson

Thomas J. Sherman Richard H. Porter D. Michael Patrick

Fred Russell

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Since 2005, we’ve proven that doing the right thing means doing things right. From our commitment to superior customer service to offering you the latest banking products, we’re ready to help you succeed. Come in today and see why we’ve become San Luis Obispo’s bank.

“Built on a Foundation of Success” EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

Member FDIC

237 Higuera St. San Luis Obispo | 543-6500 | www.founderscommunitybank.com | 863 Marsh St. San Luis Obispo

N\Ă‹m\ ^fe\ ^i\\e% Now view our printed calendar of events entirely online.

Visit our website today and find your way to the best seats in the house.

w w w . p a c s l o . o r g

upcom ing e v en ts Saturday, Oct. 2, 8 pm SLO Symphony: Opening Night SLO Symphony

Wed., Oct. 6, 7:30 pm Steve Martin Cal Poly Arts

Sunday, Oct. 10, 3 pm Diane Schuur & SLO Symphony

Cal Poly Arts & SLO Symphony

Tuesday, Oct. 12, 7:30 pm Drumline Live Cal Poly Arts

Friday, Oct. 22, 7:30 pm Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival

Los Padres ForestWatch

Friday, Oct. 22, 8 pm Cal Poly Parents Weekend Ensemble Showcase Cal Poly Music Dept.

Thursday, Oct. 7, 8 pm Paula Poundstone

Friday, Oct. 15, 8 pm Hal Holbrook: Mark Twain Tonight!

Saturday, Oct. 23, 9 am Metropolitan Opera HD Live: Boris Godunov

Cal Poly Arts

Friday, Oct. 15, 8 pm SLO Wind Orchestra Concert

Saturday, Oct. 23, 8 pm Jay Johnson: The Two and Only

Saturday, Oct. 9, 10 am Metropolitan Opera HD Live DEBUT: Das Rheingold

Wed., Oct. 20, 7:30 pm Taj Mahal & Vieux Farka Toure

Thursday, Oct. 28, 8 pm David Sedaris

SLO Hep C Project

Cal Poly Arts

Friday, Oct. 8, 8 pm Esperanza Spalding

Opera SLO

Saturday, Oct. 9, 8 pm Ellis Marsalis Cal Poly Arts

805.SLO.ARTS Phone | 805.756.2787 Fax | 805.756.6088

WWW.PACSLO.ORG

SLO Wind Orchestra

Cal Poly Arts

Opera SLO

Cal Poly Arts

Cal Poly Arts

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PEOPLE

Terry Parry and Ellen Perryess Join the pack

By Ruth Starr

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wo dynamic people, Terry Parry and her husband Randy Brachman, have created the Join The Pack concept through the non-profit group they founded, ASAP (Animal Shelter Adoption Partners). Founded in 2001, ASAP is a non-profit group with a mission of preventing unnecessary destruction of homeless pets in San Luis Obispo County.

Terry and Randy have set up various programs to alleviate the overcrowding at the Shelter, including: Rescue Me TV Show, Foster Support Program, Adopt-a-Pet, and adoption fee rebates for harder to adopt animals (Seniors, black cats, etc.)

These people are committed to changing how animals are rescued in San Luis Obispo County. They are passionate about the plight of homeless animals. The group is focused on getting IDs on every pet in the county and increasing the spay/neuter program. They work with Vets in the county to get low cost spaying and neutering so that everyone can participate with their pets.

Other ASAP members include: Ellen Perryess, Kate Stulberg and Dale Magee, long time SLO Animal Services Volunteers who have teamed up with ASAP to bring Join The Pact to the community.

If a pet is wearing an ID, then it doesn’t have to be taken to the Shelter.

The owner can be called and the pet can go home. In 2009, 692 dogs were redeemed and returned to their owners without ID tags on. If the 692 dogs didn’t come into the shelter at all, the volunteers could focus more on helping the other animals that need to get adopted. It would greatly lessen the work of everyone involved. In addition, the lost animals would not take up shelter, offering less overcrowding. The owners would not have to pay a fee for redeeming their animal as well.

The majority of dogs appear to be coming from North County.

To launch the campaign, a billboard is planned on O C T O B E R

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Highway 101 that will deliver the message, that says: “If you Love ’em, Tag ’em!” Join the Pack. www.jtpnow.org. It is short and sweet and very action oriented.’

Animal Shelter Adoption Partners (ASAP) has purchased 2,500 tags and 1,500 collars and has started giving them out to jump-start the ID program.

Ellen stated that only 40% of animals brought to the shelter are redeemed. If pet owners would take the time to ID their pets, this number could change dramatically.

SLO Animal Services has a website presence to assist with lost and found animals. The shelter is the place to call or go to for a lost animal. ASAP wants owners to take the responsibility of animal IDs so they won’t ever end up at the Shelter. Ellen pointed out that, by law, shelters are only obligated to keep an animal five days. At SLO Animal Services, they do everything that can to have a pet redeemed or adopted, but many pets are there for months.

Terry states that, if for any reason, you can no longer keep your pet, responsible ownership is turning your pet into the shelter rather than letting it go in a field. It is inappropriate to have a dog unaltered or untagged. Responsible ownership means picking up after your dog.

Responsible ownership means if you put your dog in the back of an open truck, you tether the dog to both sides so it cannot get hurt. It is the law.

One of the functions of SLO Animal Services is to micro-chip all animals before they leave with new adoptive owners. It is also mandatory that they be spayed or neutered. As an added service, they also offer micro-chipping at a reduced fee.

There were only 78 cat redemptions for the year 2009. The percentage of cats that are redeemed is very low. This can certainly change with a micro-chip or an ID tag. If you do not use or have access to a computer, you may call Terry 805-489-0689 for more information.

Or you can visit the website www.jtpnow.org.

It only takes a little consideration for our community to experience more responsible pet ownership. This will ensure our beloved pets a safer, more secure life here in San Luis Obispo County and more streamlined services from our shelters. It’s time to JOIN THE PACK.

It’s My Choice.

You have the right to choose where you receive medical treatment. If your doctor recommends a medical procedure, insist on going to French Hospital Medical Center or Arroyo Grande Community Hospital. If your physician network or health plan will not allow you to choose your community hospitals, ask why not? If you don’t have this choice, perhaps it’s time to change health plans or your physician network.

My Health.

My Choice.

“I chose French Hospital and they saved my life.”

Will Jones

1911 Johnson Ave.

“Arroyo Grande Community Hospital is my hospital of choice.”

Jane Adrian

My Hospital.

805-543-5353

345 South Halcyon Road Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 805-489-4261

FrenchMedicalCenter.org

ArroyoGrandeHospital.org

San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

San Luis Obispo County’s only not-for-profit hospitals — nationally acclaimed for quality and safety.

We believe in transparency and encourage you to review unsolicited and unbiased medical information through publicly reported data sources such as: HealthGrades.com, 100TopHospitals.com, NRCPicker.com and HospitalCompare.hhs.gov.

We accept all major insurance as well as many local and regional insurance carriers.

Call (805) 542-6498 for more information.

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PEOPLE Jeanette Duncan

Peoples’ self help housing opening doors for 40 years

By Susan Stewart

French insurance company. During her ten years in Europe, Duncan became fluent in French and German, and met and married Donald “Corky” Duncan. A command in Donald’s military career transferred the couple to America, specifically the Central Coast, where they have lived for more than 43 years.

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ike so many women of high achievement, Jeanette Duncan points to the women who came before her as role models for a life well-led. As she prepares to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Peoples’ Self-Help Housing, Duncan recalls the inspiration for the almost equal number of years she has spent at its helm.

Born and raised in Oklahoma City, Duncan earned the first of two college and university degrees by the time she was 20. Upon graduation, a case of wanderlust took her to Europe, where she worked first for the European Exchange System, and then for a

It was while earning her second degree, this time in Sociology with a minor in Business, that Duncan first heard of the effort to provide more affordable housing in our county.

“I was very interested in social services, and I met a VISTA volunteer who had worked in Washington, D.C.” she said. “He asked me if I thought affordable housing was an issue here, and if I did, would I help him form an organization. … They incorporated in 1970, and I became a board member.” Duncan was asked to step into the lead position as executive director in 1976.

Since that time, Peoples’ Self-Help Housing has grown by leaps and bounds, becoming one of the most respected non-profits in the country. Under Duncan’s visionary leadership, PSHH has constructed over 1200 owner-built, single-family homes, most with “sweat-equity,” and has developed more than 1400 rental units for seniors, farmworkers, low-income families, and the physically challenged across three counties: San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura.

social standing to receive a high school education. Mary and her husband homesteaded in Hydro, Oklahoma, near the Texas border, where she bore all 10 of her children at home, without the aid of running water or electricity. Well-read, with a talent for business, Mary not only nurtured her 10 children, but also managed the household money, raised chickens, and sold eggs – all while fighting for the woman’s right to vote. Mary was a pioneer and a suffragette, who lived to see her dream of voting realized; and from that day forward, never missed her chance to vote in every election.

“How she got involved in the right to vote, I don’t know,” said Duncan. “But she took that right very seriously; and social justice was also very important to her.”

That “gene” is alive and well in her granddaughter, who—despite the success of PSHH— recognized that a roof over one’s head is sometimes not enough; that children from hard-working families can fall behind

Duncan’s mother, Fern, set high standards for her daughter, winning a prestigious state award for the thousands of hours she gave to her community as a local hospital volunteer. Fern shared her generous community spirit with her nine siblings, all of whom grew up to be what Duncan describes as “… very giving; helping others was important to all of them.”

Without hesitation, however, Duncan names her grandmother Mary as being her strongest influence. Born to Scottish immigrants in a sod house in Kansas, Mary was one of the few women of her era and working class O C T O B E R

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Local couple pose for a photo in their new home

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“People up and down the coast have been so good to us,” Duncan explained. “So we’re having three events to give them all a chance to celebrate and be thanked.”

On Sunday, October 3 at 3:00 p.m., a buffet dinner and local wines will be served at the Rubin Estate in Santa Barbara, a turn-of-the-century home near the Mission. On Saturday, October 23 at 5:30 p.m., The Edwards Barn in Nipomo will serve dinner, featuring live and silent auctions, plus the music of Louie Ortega & Amigos. And on Saturday, November 6 at 5:30 p.m., a silent auction, music, and dinner will be held at the Niner Winery in Paso Robles. Tickets for each of the three are $100. Call 781-3088 or visit pshhc.org for details.

Self Help Builder Group

in school. So nine years ago, the Youth Education Enhancement Program (YEEP) was formed. The largest YEEP center is located in Paso Robles, but there are four others in Santa Barbara County. The program offers free after-school help with literacy, English, and math skills, striving to improve grade point averages, sharpen study skills, and promote high school graduation and continued education.

“So many children with working parents are struggling,” she said, “especially if English is not their first language … Our goal is that every one of them gets to college. And we now have social workers on staff to help families and seniors in our supportive housing program.”

In the 1980s, the long waiting list for houses prompted PSHH to add rental apartments and residential hotels at affordable prices to their services, in order to serve working people, seniors, and people with special needs, such as disabled veterans, and those with mental or physical challenges.

Even after 40 years, Duncan says her best days are the ones where she sees a family get the keys to their first home; or a roomful of children bent over their schoolwork at one of the YEEP centers. Duncan does not speak of retirement; instead she talks about all that’s left to accomplish: more funds for more after-school programs, and more services for the special needs community.

The public has been offered a unique chance to help Jeanette Duncan and the staff at PSHH continue its remarkable work. Three events called “Taste of Hope” have been planned to celebrate its 40th anniversary, and the proceeds from these will benefit PSHH and YEEP.

“We are especially proud to have celebrity Co-Chairs Rona Barrett and Steve Ford on hand for these special events,” said Duncan.

Individual donors and businesses alike have contributed generously to the success of Peoples’ Self-Help Housing. Duncan plans to honor them at these Taste of Hope celebrations. Among the honorees are Community Partners of the Year, Donor of the Year, Foundations of the Year, Professionals of the Year, and Volunteers of the Year.

In the meantime, the foundations are being laid, the walls are being framed, and the lights are being turned on at countless new homes across the Central Coast—homes that provide the fundamental stability people need to thrive and be productive. “If you care about community,” says Duncan, “then volunteer time or contribute. This is such a great way to get involved.”

Paso Robles office at 220 Oak Hill Rd. is now open!

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PEOPLE

pat and randy martin: ...A downtown love story

By Hilary Grant Thursday night Farmers’ Market in San Luis Obispo.

Much more than a few blocks of produce stands, this in-the-center-oftown, weekly shopping event is a rollicking and happy sidewalk party – spilling onto side streets, filling restaurants and keeping many of the area’s assortment of boutique stores open later than usual. Now in its 27th year, there’s also live music, puppet shows and balloon animals for kids, and naturally, a cornucopia of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Is it also a place to find true love?

To Pat and Randy Martin, the answer is a resounding yes.

That’s because the couple had their first date there – on July 11, 1985 -– and have been married for almost as long.

“We were supposed to go out a few days before, to celebrate Randy’s birthday,” says Pat, who, like her husband, was then working for the Cal Poly Foundation. (Now called the Cal Poly Corporation, the entity supports the college’s educational mission; Pat is its current Associate Human Resources Director.)

But because wildfires in the area had closed the campus earlier that week, Pat remembers that the two didn’t see one another for a few days – and decided to “do the market” instead.

“It was still relatively new, and definitely ‘the thing’ on Thursday nights,” remembers Pat. “It wasn’t nearly as crowded as now, but still really fun.”

This was after a bit of friendly office flirting, with Pat thinking that Randy, just hired as a Foundation computer programmer, “was such a nice person, genuinely kind and thoughtful.”

Of his first impressions, Randy says, “Pat was the friendliest person I’d ever met. I loved her smile and eyes, and her tremendous amount of energy for life.”

That memorable night began with drinks at a downtown watering hole, then a supper of ribs while sitting curbside. Next was a purchase of strawberries and finally, an afterdinner nightcap.

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laughing after I accidentally squashed Randy’s berries with the caster of my chair!” says Pat. The two tied the knot in the Modesto backyard of Pat’s mother in May of 1987.

“I wore a traditional gown that I found at Everyone’s Favorite Wedding Shop on Higuera,” says Pat. “I had the dress cut to ballerina length, which really surprised the shopkeepers.”

Fast forward a quarter of a century and the Martins remain an energizing force in San Luis Obispo.

Pat has continued her Cal Poly work, not only with the Cal Poly Corporation, but as an adjunct professor for both the Kinesiology Department and the Orfalea College of Business. (The latter is a sort of college within a college, offering degrees in majors that include Finance and Marketing.)

She’s also a passionate volunteer for the SLO Red Cross; in fact, Pat teaches cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes to university employees, and also recently completed a six-year term on the Red Cross Board of Directors.

“Wow – I can’t believe I’ve been working with this organization for 30 years!” she says.

“But I’m involved because I’m so impressed by our local chapter. It helps out in so many ways, large and small, from single family fires to huge disasters.

“And, it can do these things because of the generosity of our community, particularly in times of disaster.”

Pat also lends her helping hands to the SLO American Heart Association, mostly as chief assistant in the planning and coordination of its annual Women’s Luncheon.

This event, she says, “provides a great opportunity to educate women, and men, in our area about heart disease, and how it affects so many women and families.

“Women often are so busy caring for others that they often neglect to care for themselves. Randy often reminds me of this as well!”

Randy retired from Cal Poly right after Christmas of 2004, and has become an unabashed wine connoisseur. With a wine industry certificate in hand – from Cal Poly, naturally – he found work two years ago in the tasting room of the Edna Valley Vineyard.

PEOPLE “I get the chance to converse with people visiting from all over the world,� he says. “It’s a fun place to work, and a great retirement job. The view from the tasting room isn’t bad either!�

Given that Randy is also an avid cyclist and hiker, it makes sense that his volunteer time is with the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County. (This not-for-profit organization, run by locals, sets aside area lands for wildlife, recreation and farming.) “A big part of what draws people here is the environment,� he explains. “The clean air, the hiking trails, and open space areas all play a part in helping balance our SLO life style. “I’ve always loved the outdoors, so helping the Conservancy out – I helped paint the Octagon Barn, planted trees and weeded open space on South Higuera – is a natural fit.�

“We might not be able to donate millions of dollars to a cause – oh, wouldn’t that be fun! – but we can bring our energy and enthusiasm to those things in which we believe.�

How do Pat and Randy rate their SLO love story? “The life Randy and I have together is better than I ever imagined married life would be,� says Pat. “Sure, we have our ‘marital moments’ as we call them, but our life is grand.�

Adds Randy: “Pat is the most special part of my life. Most people celebrate anniversa-

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ries, but I take it a step further. “From the start, we’ve celebrated ‘monthiversaries.’ I give Pat flowers every month around our wedding day date, and we still dance to a song or two after guests leave our house parties. “I guess that we’re just two very romantic souls!�

The Farmers’ Market in downtown SLO takes place every Thursday (except Thanksgiving Day or in the event of rain) from 6 p.m. to 9 o’clock between Osos and Nipomo Streets. Visit downtownslo.com to find out more, including the Market’s history and entertainment schedule.

BALANCE AND EXPERIENCE

Together, the Martins support Hospice Partners of the Central Coast, the San Luis Obispo Symphony and The Women’s Shelter Program of San Luis Obispo County. They’re also avid Cal Poly Sports fans. “There are so many worthwhile causes that help people in our community and beyond,� says Pat.

VOTE PAUL BROWN MAYOR ¡ Local businesses are vital to our City’s economic growth. They provide jobs, unique character and charm, and they keep more money here in the City of San Luis Obispo - where it belongs. ¡ Paul Brown has owned a local small business and, as Mayor, he will support the needs of small businesses and provide balance on the City Council. ¡ Paul Brown has served on the City Council, the Downtown Business Association and chaired the Economic Vitality Commission. ¡ Paul Brown has the “Know-Howâ€? to protect the needs of local small business while preserving the unique character and resources of the City. ¡ Paul Brown has the experience, common sense leadership, integrity and determination necessary to be the next mayor of the City of San Luis Obispo. ¡ Please help small businesses and help maintain balance on the City Council. ¡ Vote for Paul Brown - Mayor.

VOTEPAULBROWN.COM 0AID FOR BY +RISTIE -OLINA s 0AID 0OLITICAL !DVERTISEMENT .OT AUTHORIZED BY A CANDIDATE OR A COMMITTEE CONTROLLED BY A CANDIDATE O C T O B E R

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PEOPLE

The perfect pirouette

Ballet Theatre’s theresa Slobodnik

By Susan Stewart

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ike a perfectly executed pirouette, Theresa Slobodnik’s dancing career has come full circle.

With early training in the San Francisco Bay Area received at the capable hands of such major dance names as Marjorie Stevens, Lee Salsbury, and Patrice Nissen (of the Royal Academy of Dance), Slobodnik moved to San Luis Obispo as a young dancer. She continued her training with Gilbert Reed, a world-renowned choreographer and teacher who had come to the Central Coast to “retire,” and ended up forming The Gilbert Reed Ballet. Slobodnik became Reed’s principal dancer for 14 years, earning starring roles in The Firebird, Carmen, Camille, Beauty and the Beast, and Reed’s original full-length ballet, A Christmas Carol. Today, Slobodnik is the artistic director of her own dance company, mentoring other young dancers, and mounting her own original productions.

Slobodnik founded Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo (BT-SLO) in 2006, originally rehearsing at the American Dance of SLO location on Parker Street. She moved into her current “home” a year ago, sharing space in downtown SLO with Dance Obispo—a new studio focused primarily on classical ballet. Past seasons have included such productions as Coppélia, Rodeo, Robin Hood, The Velveteen Rabbit, and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Her company then takes abridged performances of these major ballets to school children county-wide, through Youth Outreach for the Performing Arts Center (YOPAC).

“Ballet Theatre SLO received a generous grant from the KCBX Wine Auction to tour my ballet Levez le Rideau (Raising the Curtain) to Central Coast schools in spring of 2011,” said Slobodnik. “[It’s] a thirtyminute ballet full of humor, drama, and great dancing … that shows every aspect of what it takes to present a major work in a theatre.”

Levez le Rideau is a perfect way to introduce classical ballet to young people because it’s a story about ballet, told through ballet. Danced

Theresa Slobodnik

to the music of Ravel, Beethoven, and Strauss (among others), the scenes include: The Benefactors, The Audition, You’re Hired, The Rehearsal, The Wardrobe Mistress, Class on Stage, Costumes!, Final Preparations, and The Performance. The show premiered in October of 2007 and will be taken to schools from northern San Luis Obispo County to northern Santa Barbara County. “We are really excited about this,” said Slobodnik, who says that one of her greatest priorities continues to be to educate and inspire young people.

Contributing to her success, other Slobodniks get into the act as well.

Husband John designs and builds Ballet Theatre sets; daughter/vocalist Hannah and son/cellist Aksel will be accompanying two new ballets in March, and niece/dancer Melissa Barnett is both teacher and dancer at BT-SLO. This year, after an 8-year hiatus, Gilbert Reed’s A Christmas Carol will once again take the stage at the Spanos Theater on the Cal Poly campus this December. First performed there in 1994, it went on to become an annual holiday classic until 2002. Its reprise will be

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PEOPLE danced by BT-SLO, with Slobodnik and Reed teaming up once again to coach the dancers and mount the production.

“I actually had a different project planned,” said Slobodnik, “but I woke up one morning and the thought fell on me: If you’re ever going to do Gilbert’s Carol, now is the time! So I approached Gilbert and he graciously agreed to it.”

Having studied with Jerome Robbins, Antony Tudor, and the great George Balanchine among others, Reed brings more than half a century of dancing experience from all over the world to his coaching. “Gilbert is the most generous and brilliant teacher,” said Slobodnik. “The 14 years I spent working with him were a gift, a dream, the oppor-

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tunity of a lifetime. We would go into the studio for hours together making ballets. His history in the business gave him rich, firsthand experiences that cannot be learned in a book. He shared these with such passion, such generosity, and still does. His work fit me like a glove.”

Auditions for the supporting cast of A Christmas Carol began in mid-September.

For more information, call 440-1439 or visit www.bt-slo.org. As her company grows, Slobodnik is grateful to be sharing the gifts she was given as she was coming up, bringing her career full circle. And like any really great pirouette, one is never enough. We always look forward to the next – and the next, and the next.

Aksel

Faith, Hannah and Aksel preforming

Theresa with Gilbert Reed O C T O B E R

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PEOPLE

eunice pierce – Dancer, truant, nun, church lady

By Susan Pyburn

(805) 541-9922

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just go and do!” says Eunice Pierce. Her independent streak was evident even as a teen when she routinely ditched school to go sailing at Avila Beach. After high school, she went off to college to study theology and education, then became a professional ballet dancer before leaving for Tarrytown, New York to enter a convent.

“

www.palazzogiuseppe.com

Eunice was only warming up. Some fifty years later, we met on a cold, dark January night at the Old Mission Parish Hall where she was hosting the homeless. The dank, high-ceilinged room was filled with camping cots, but the dazzle in her smile and spark in her eyes lit up the space.

For more than twenty years, Eunice Pierce has coordinated the January shelter hosted by the Mission. It all began with a tiny notice in the church bulletin that caught her eye. Volunteers were needed to help put together a winter shelter. She joined a handful of folks who she would come to know very well over the ensuing years, and together they set about to do something to help homeless men struggling to find work and get off the streets. For the most part, they were successful in getting them placed in both jobs and housing by the end of their first year of shelter. Not bad for volunteers!

“The best part about (this) whole experience is the people I’ve met (from the churches). I’m blown away by the generosity!” What began with five churches evolved into a year-round endeavor that includes twelve parishes. Eunice assumed the task of forming a non-profit to oversee the project, in conjunction with the newly formed Economic Opportunity Commission (now named Community Action Partnership). She is quick to credit fellow volunteers who were instrumental in these efforts: people like Beverly Steward, Dick Warren “..my mentor,” John Burdett, Elaine Townsend, and John & Mary Ellen Nowell.

PEOPLE As the middle child of three, Eunice used to gather up animals and bring them into the family home, turning the back porch into a virtual wildlife shelter. Was this a portent?

Although she wasn’t a bad student, she preferred sailing. “I’d rather go sailing than go to school!” So she skipped school and wrote her own excuses to which she affixed her mother’s name. “It was the same as my own!” she offers with a smile. When her non-attendance was noted, truant officers intervened and she returned to school with no regrets and sweet memories of long hours sailing on Avila Bay. Eunice began to train in ballet at age eight.

By junior high, she was teaching and continued teaching while studying at Marymount in Los Angeles. She went on to join the De Cotta City ballet in Santa Barbara, and danced on the stage in Los Angeles. It was her conversion to Catholicism that interrupted her dance career. She went off to New York to join a convent.

As a nun, her three major interests finally came together: theology, dance, and education. While on a teaching assignment at St. Martins in San Jose, she was asked to teach

a ballet class. When the boys resisted, she organized a drill team as well. Her classes presented unique challenges for a nun as they were still wearing robes in those days.

Notwithstanding the drapery, Eunice managed to arrange poses using her students, and to perform simple movements in nun’s attire. Picture that.

When her back gave out after an ambitious day of moving pew benches and hoisting a baby grand piano down a staircase, she was faced with six months in traction. “I was young, strong and stupid!” She used this time to reflect on her life and sort things out.

She decided to leave the order, and returned to San Luis Obispo.

Back home in SLO, the Mission School hired her to teach 4th grade. And that is where she met and married fellow teacher and jazz musician, Jack Pierce. She and Jack remained in SLO, and raised two children, Eunice and John. Eunice continued to teach ballet on the side for more than 30 years, when she wasn’t traipsing around the globe with Jack on jazz gigs to places like Montreaux, Switzerland.

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Those early efforts with five churches and a handful of volunteers evolved into a program that includes hundreds of volunteers, many of them students. At 78, Eunice still oversees the Mission program, but would consider giving it up to the right volunteer. The post requires some overnight stays, never a problem for Eunice, a self-proclaimed night owl.

Every night of the year, a church in San Luis Obispo transforms its parish hall into a dorm for thirty or so (women and families) who cannot be accommodated at the main shelter on Orcutt. “I get way more… than I give!” says Eunice about her work with people who are homeless, people who are generous with their gratitude. Among many gifts she cherishes is a letter of thanks written by grateful clientele.

As her spiritual life has deepened, Eunice has arrived at a conclusion echoed by many writers on mid-life passage. “I really feel that everybody comes to a point of their own conversion…” (not necessarily within a church.)

“God is in this whole thing!” she declares with a knowing smile. Her dancing days may be over, but, for Eunice Pierce, life is still a dance. And she still has that showgirl smile.

With the encouragement and support of individuals I respect, I’m inspired and energized as I launch a campaign to serve – once again – as a City Council Member for the City of San Luis Obispo.

EndOrSEMEntS City: Former Mayors, Council Members – Ken Schwartz, Allen Settle, John Ewan, John Ashbaugh; San Luis Obispo City Firefighters Local 3523; San Luis Obispo Police Officers’ Association County: Adam Hill, Supervisor; Sierra Club, Santa Lucia Chapter

KATHYSMITH It’s all about community

Experienced Leadership for challenging times

Kathy’s 2010 Priorities Strengthen San Luis Economy Protect SLO Quality of Life Maintain the City’s Fiscal Integrity Who is Kathy Smith?

I moved to San Luis Obispo in 1989 to purchase, restore and manage the Garden Street Inn Bed & Breakfast, selling it 15 years later to a local couple.

www.VoteKathySmith.com

My public service mission is characterized by: Q advance study Q seeking out and listening to individuals on all sides of an issue Q objective processing Q supporting balance in government I served on the City Council from 1994-98. Lasting initiatives I proposed include: Q The establishment of the Economic Development and Natural Resource Manager positions Q Art in Public Places

It’s all about community

Kathy Smith for City Council · 3057 South Higuera Street #98 · San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 · Wilda Rosene, Treasurer O C T O B E R

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PEOPLE

Hilary Anderson concert pianist, tennis coach and more

By Ruth Starr

H

ilary Anderson began playing the piano at the tender age of five. She came from a family of piano lovers. Her mother and grandfather were excellent pianists and owned a piano emporium in downtown Johannesburg, South Africa. Her Grandfather, originally from England, was also a piano tuner. Grandfather and Mother traveled from the United Kingdom in 1902 to Johannesburg to set up their piano company called Lincoln Brothers. After her grandfather passed away, Hilary’s mother ran the company until she retired at seventy-five.

Hilary’s mother was also an excellent tennis player. On her fifth birthday, Hilary was given a tennis racquet and for Christmas her present was a piano. Hilary was promptly given formal training in both tennis and piano. She played piano with the Johannesburg Symphony Orchestra and at age fifteen played the Mendelssohn Piano Concerto in D minor. That experience was a highlight of her life.

Hilary quickly became known in the neighborhood as “the pianist,”

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whereupon the neighborhood kids began flocking to her for lessons.

At the age of thirteen, the kids would pay her anywhere from a nickel to a quarter for a lesson. She planned recitals and concerts with her students to honor them and their piano playing.

Upon graduation from high school, Hilary went to the University of Cape Town Conservatory of Music in Cape Town, South Africa.

Along with intensive music study, Hilary continued to devote herself

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to tennis. She had been Captain of her High School tennis team and competed in several tournaments. She freely admits her competitive nature, but in a good way. At the end of the day, what’s most important to her is that everyone enjoys the game.

Hilary came to San Luis Obispo thirteen years ago. She was introduced to the region by a friend and instantly took to the area. Her home is adorned by two Bosendorfer grand pianos. The original Bosendorfer was given to her by her mother when she was sixteen years old. It was hand crafted in Vienna, in 1870, making it one hundred and forty years old. The newer piano was also handmade in Vienna ten years ago. A Bosendorfer is considered to be amongst the best pianos in the world.

The students who lived on the Cape Town campus would spend long hours practicing in the subterranean practice rooms. Their backs and hands would ache from these long sessions, sitting in one place for up to 8 hours a day. To help ease the pain in their hands and backs, they would massage each other. Hilary enjoyed massaging and wanted to be professionally trained so she went to a Massage School in Johannesburg.

With piano teaching and massage therapy skills, Hilary realized that when she moved to America, she could earn a living by using her skills to attract piano students and also massage clients in a fairly effortless manner.

After moving to the Central Coast, Hilary began playing tennis at the Avila Bay Club. She met Hugh Bream, the Cal Poly women’s tennis coach, and he encouraged her to take up tennis coaching. She became licensed as a coach and Hugh has remained her mentor over the years.

Besides being a coach, Hilary loves to go out and play tennis with friends and enter tournaments when possible. Each of her talents entails different energetic interactions with people. She finds these modalities to be comforting and fulfilling.

The only family she has left is her older brother Dennis, who has Downs Syndrome. Hilary visits Dennis once a year at his home in Cape Town. He is now fifty-six years old.

As part of her massage and healing work, Hilary participates in Energy Balancing once a month at Sierra Vista Hospital. This relaxation therapy is a free service to anyone who would like to attend. Sponsored by The Global Alliance for balance and healing, all the facilitators donate their services. This therapy is a way to balance mental, physical, emotional and spiritual energy.

Hilary regularly hosts fundraising concerts in her San Luis Obispo home. Benefits include: the Jewish Community Center, kidney research, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and Gods gift home in South Africa.

She is an avid patron of the arts, a generous supporter of global causes and an integral part of the fabric of the Central Coast.

Her compassion also reaches out to furry friends. Hilary is often pet sitting and caring for hard to place dogs. Her big heart has nurtured several dachsunds past their prime in recent years.

Musician, Tennis Coach, Piano Teacher, Masseuse, Hilary Anderson is one of those rare people whose gifts and talents exceed the standards. She is fluent in French, having lived in and studied in Paris, and enjoys reading and keeping up with world events. Truly a woman of global appeal, Hilary Anderson brings her unique blend of talents to our beautiful Central Coast of California.

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HOME/OUTDOOR PULSE

Double cheeseburgers and global warming

By Julian J. Varela

W

ho would have known that your last late-night cheeseburger binge may have contributed to glacial melting? How are we supposed to know? Many fast food restaurants and chains just recently started listing the calories of each menu item and that was shocking enough. But now, are we supposed to believe that eating cheeseburgers is contributing to global warming? It’s not like CO2 emissions are listed along with the calorie content, grams of protein and carbohydrates.

When we purchase beef, we don’t find “warming” labels stating crimes against the environment made on the way to our dinner

table. And really the last time I saw a California Cheese commercial, the cows looked so happy; how could something so adorable be harmful to the environment?

Over the last few years we’ve heard more and more about the importance of eating locally and organically. Now, it’s time to hear about something called the low-carbon diet: an eating plan that seeks to limit high-impact foods like beef and cheeses in an effort to lower overall carbon emissions.

The truth of the matter is that our nation eats an unhealthy amount of beef. In 2009, the U.S. population consumed about 27 billions pounds of beef. Wow. Keep in mind

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that cows need to eat too, and it requires 4 pounds of corn to produce one pound of beef on average, which seems wasteful to me.

Let’s not forget that cows also produce massive amounts of polluting gasses, including lots of methane. Some reports have shown that the average dairy cow produces daily pollutants in amounts that are comparable to what a car produces in a day. Bon Appétit!

Speaking of Bon Appétit, it seems that Bon Appétit Management Company, a national food service contractor that serves 80 million meals a year, is taking the lead on reducing carbon emissions. Bon Appétit has reduced its carbon emissions by 25 percent through a push to increase its purchase of food from within 150 miles of each kitchen and has since spent $55 million in local regions. This is just another example of the power of buying locally and its far-reaching implications. With this effort, Bon Appétit has cut beef and cheese purchases by 25 percent and committed to purchasing meats raised in North America. They have also stopped purchasing air freighted seafood and now buy local or frozen-at-sea fish.

Bon Appétit also pushes for composting and less food waste; and has stopped using imported water. Seriously, does it really make sense to import water from France and drink it here? Perhaps it’s time to say “Au revoir Perrier.”

My family is from Argentina, and I’ve learned to enjoy the occasional steak. However, I think it’s just as important to consider the full impact to the environment while satisfying our cravings. So what are we to eat? Michael Pollan said it with seven simple words. “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” The end.

Julian J. Varela holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion and is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist. Julian co-owns Equilibrium Fitness and Equilibrium Fitness for Women. He can be contacted at Julian@eqclubs.com with questions or comments. Follow Julian’s Blog at julianvarela.blogspot.com.

Attention CalPERS Members –

You Now Have Another Choice

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Doctors Amanthi Chandrasena, Scott Robertson, Megan Ellman and Antonette San Bartolome at Arroyo Grande Community Hospital.

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The Primary Care Physicians of SLO Select IPA work hard to provide local, quality care for San Luis Obispo County residents. Working alongside local specialists, SLO Select IPA’s member list is over 200 members strong.

Visit www.SLOSelectIPA.com to see if your doctor is a member.

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Pediatrics Julie Anselmo, MD Tamara Battle MD Rene Bravo, MD James Coryell, MD Wanda Lo, MD Kathleen Long, MD Jill Lowers, MD Richard Macias, MD William Morgan, MD Parvin Nahvi, MD Mary Nave, MD Richard Peterson, MD

French Hospital Medical Center, Arroyo Grande Community Hospital and SLO Select IPA; a strong partnership for a healthy community.

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HOME/OUTDOOR

a passion for the pedal: san luis obispo hosts world-class cycling event

By Susan Stewart

T

he “gran fondo,” a cycling phenomenon that took Italy by storm, has arrived on the Central Coast. On Saturday, October 23rd, riders of every ability—from casual to competitive—will come together to ride the scenic cycling terrain of San Luis Obispo County alongside some of the best professional riders in the world. Fully supported along three routes that vary in difficulty, local cyclists as well as riders from all over the world are invited to experience the unsurpassed beauty and exceptional rewards of cycling here.

Meaning “long distance,” or “great endurance” in Italian, the gran fondo phenomenon is currently breaking records all across the Italian countryside. Not a race, but rather a test of personal endurance, these colorful, all-day events draw thousands of riders (ages 18 to 80), provide roaming mechanical and medical support, have stations set up to feed and hydrate the riders, and stop traffic where needed to let throngs of riders pass through. Cheering fans line the routes, along with media of all types to catch the excitement. Riders do pay a fee (which varies event to event) to participate. Gran fondo rides are massed start, with each participant wearing a timing chip that records how long it takes them to complete the course.

The SLO GranFondo will mirror that description, but it’s important to note that here, riders will have a rolling start and all participants will be instructed to follow the rules of the road, as they will be sharing it with everyone. And there is one other significant difference: All of the proceeds from the $125 registration fee will support San Luis Obispo ALPHA, a local nonprofit serving SLO County families with pregnancy and parenting support for 30 years. (Most Italian gran fondo events are not affiliated with a charity.)

“San Luis Obispo is such a remarkable place to visit and to be outdoors,” said Jen Miller, Executive Director of San Luis Obispo ALPHA. “It’s exciting to see this inaugural cycling event drawing from outside the Central Coast.”

Top-ranked professional international team HTC-Columbia, owned and operated by San Luis Obispo-based High Road Sports, will be a featured participant in this inaugural SLO GranFondo. For three consecutive years, this team has won more races than any other Pro Elite Cycling team in the world, and has been ranked as the world’s number one team by industry experts like Eurosport, and ProCycling Magazine. Participating team members include German Road Champion Ina-Yoko Teutenberg, U.S Time Trial Champion Evelyn Stevens, Americans Craig Lewis, Kim Anderson, and Tejay Van Garderen, and local rider Lucas Euser, who was one of our own Cal Poly Wheelmen, and now rides for Spider Tech.

“What’s great about the SLO GranFondo is it gives riders of all abilities the chance to take on a challenge, ride for a great cause, and do it alongside pro riders from one of the world’s most celebrated professional teams in the sport,” said Ellen Cohune, of Team HTC-Columbia.

“It’s such a special opportunity … and it’s taking place right here in SLO. It doesn’t get much better than that.”

Riders may choose from three routes: GranFondo is 100 miles on challenging terrain from San Luis Obispo up the northern coast to Cayucos, climbing Old Creek Road, and then heading down Highway 46 (“the screamer”) to Cambria. The course reaches the gates of Hearst Castle, then returns along the Highway One coastline. Riders who choose this route should be fit and well-trained. But ah, the rewards will be spectacular! MedioFondo is a 50-mile course that shares the same routes as the GranFondo but returns to SLO after reaching the town of Cayucos. Cyclists wanting to improve times and challenge themselves will appreciate this course. PiccoloFondo is a 25-mile loop that starts and finishes at the historic Mission Plaza in downtown San Luis Obispo. It unfolds through rolling countryside that includes a glimpse of the picturesque Morro Bay estuary. This ride is perfect for those wanting to experience the beauty of the Central Coast, but wish to avoid the strenuous climbs and long distances.

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Besides the gorgeous scenery, a fun day of riding, and the camaraderie that always springs up among like-minded folks, what has made this event such a flourishing phenomenon in Europe, and increasingly here in the U.S.? Olympic track cycling champion Antonella Bellutti puts it best when she writes (for Il Gazzettino):

Those who live here already know about the sparkling coves, velvety pastures, wooded glens, and historic farmhouses that make up the breathtaking landscape along this part of the coast. They know this area is a cyclist’s dream-come-true. But what organizers are hoping is that this event will introduce our county to the cycling world outside the area.

“The SLO GranFondo hopes to grow into an annually anticipated community and premier cycling event,” said Kjersti Anderson, Event Coordinator. “In future years, the hope is to expand the scope of the event and reach a broader audience.”

“The satisfaction is that of being there, of being a protagonist in a moment of collective joy, of the sublimation of fatigue in the name of the bicycle … Young and old, men and women, competitive and touristic, well-trained and less so, alone, couples, and groups, Italians and foreigners: a variegated universe with but one passion: the bicycle!”

Deadline for registration is October 18. Call (805) 801-7779 or log onto www.slogranfondo.com for details.

“We want to bring this area to the attention of the rest of the cycling world,” said John Connor, Chair of the Tourism Business Improvement District Advisory Board. “So that other cyclists will come back on a regular basis to cycle here, and to eat, stay, and play here.”

Commonsense Leadership with a

new approaCh VOTE PAUL BROWN MAYOR! While San Luis Obispo is a paradise, we have complex issues such as affordable housing, job scarcity, traffic circulation, homelessness, growth, and budget deficits to overcome.

Creating viable solutions will take a Mayor with a diverse background who is trusted in our community and has the determination to get things done.

We need a leader to collaboratively promote our economic stability while still protecting our unique resources.

This is why current Mayor Dave Romero and other community leaders have encouraged and endorsed Paul Brown to be our next Mayor.

www.votepaulbrown.com Paid for by Paul Brown for Mayor 2010, 1214 Mariners Cove, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

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Don’t Overlook Your Lawn and Garden This Fall

By Statepoint Media

J

ust because the weather is cooler doesn’t mean you should pack away your lawn and garden tools.

The fall is a crucial time for aerating, seeding, pruning and other activities to get your lawn, trees and garden ready for next spring and summer. But nobody wants to waste whole weekends doing yard work.

Fortunately, there are several ways homeowners can save time preparing their greenery and gardens for the coming seasons.

Trees and Hedges Although garden shears are fine for light pruning or trimming hedges, heavier work such as storm cleanup often requires a

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chainsaw. Cutting dead or weakened branches will keep them from falling and damaging your – or your neighbor’s – property.

When using a chainsaw for yard work, make sure the chain is sharp. Normal cutting will dull saw chain, but contact with rocks and even dirt can quickly take the edge off – making common tasks more difficult and time-consuming.

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The thought of sharpening saw chains can be intimidating for many homeowners, but this doesn’t have to be the case thanks to new technology. PowerSharp, a new product from Oregon brand outdoor power equipment, is a portable sharpening system that enables even occasional chainsaw users to sharpen chain on their saw in seconds. It comes with a chain, guide bar and bar-mount sharpener that clips easily to the nose of the bar. To see how it works, visit Powersharp.com.

Fallen Leaves When raking fallen leaves, opt for a lightweight plastic rake, which

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IPNF EFTJHO EJTUSJDU glides more easily on grass than metal ones. Also, an open tarp for collecting leaves works better than dragging plastic bags across the yard.

Fallen leaves in gutters are a particular autumn nuisance. To save time, try using a gutter rake to clear debris in both directions without having to move your ladder.

Or use gutter tongs, which work like salad tongs to collect leaves quickly.

Grass and Soil During the summer months, your lawn is subject to more traffic and wear. To help guard against dead patches come spring, aerate and re-seed your lawn now. Waiting until spring means you won’t have a fully green lawn until early summer.

Small lawns can benefit from hand-powered aerators, but large ones may need one that attaches to the back of a riding mower. Either way, make sure the spikes

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HOME/OUTDOOR

at the market FALL GRANOLA

By Sarah Hedger

O

ctober often brings the reality that Fall has arrived to the Central Coast. With crisp mornings returning and, for those of us with a good sense of smell, the fresh aroma of apples seems to fill the air. Well, hopefully I’m not the only one that notices the fresh smell of apples in the Fall! Especially in places such as Avila Valley, See Canyon, and Templeton, the smell and beauty of the variety of apples we have locally is hard to miss. The Central Coast offers close to perfect conditions for a large assortment of apples to flourish. If you are fortunate enough to get out to a local farmers’ market, it is easy to find dozens of varieties of apples as each comes into its own perfect time to be picked. While it is pretty easy to find apples in the supermarkets year round, there is no denying the brilliant flavor of a local, seasonal apple. Regardless of the variety, they are crisp, juicy, and give off a lovely apple aroma that nothing can really replicate.

This month’s recipe incorporates a pretty simple step to becoming more self-sufficient as it minimizes what is prepared and packaged elsewhere. We have had a goal this past year to produce more foods on our own, that we have otherwise purchased in the past. One of the foods we tend to consume on a daily basis is cereal in the form of granola. For me it’s a hard thing to pass up, even when purchased from the store, as good granola has a healthy crunch to it while being sweet (but not too sweet), crunchy, and tasty at the same time. It just has whole food goodness baked right into it – especially when you make your own. Quite honestly, we all have our own preferences and the beauty of making something in your own kitchen is that you can

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make it just to your liking! Thus, the desire to make our own granola was recently launched in the research lab otherwise known as the kitchen. Fortunately, it didn’t take many tries to come up with a basic recipe that is flexible enough to reflect what is in season, as well as

what is conveniently locally produced at the same time. In researching the ingredients of packaged granola, it can be a bit shocking to see how many often unrecognizable ingredients it contains. We do our best to eat as many organic whole foods as possible and true granola shouldn’t be a stretch. I have come up with a granola recipe that, for the most part, reflects what is grown locally around us. The resulting product is delicious and fresh while being convenient, nourishing, and a great way to start the day! That said, the granola for this month’s recipe is a Fall version. It incorporates local apples, hazelnuts, honey, and olive oil for a Central Coast version of granola. It is full of whole food goodness, as well as healthy fats, and fiber. Aside from having one less staple to purchase at the grocery store, you will be incorporating less packaging, and therefore less waste, into your life, which is a good contribution all the way around. Happy Fall!

HOMEMADE FALL GRANOLA WITH ORGANIC APPLES AND HAZELNUTS

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*There is no limit to what you can include in your granola. It can include whatever is in season, in your backyard, or in your cupboard!

For the Granola: ½ cup neutral-tasting oil, such as light olive oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, etc. ½ cup good quality, local honey ½ cup brown sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. cardamom Ÿ tsp. fresh ground nutmeg 2-3 organic, apples (preferably Granny Smith), finely sliced in Ÿ inch pieces 3 cups organic rolled oats 1 cup oat bran 1 cup dried, grated coconut 1 cup hazelnuts (any combination of almonds, hazelnuts, brazil nuts, walnuts, etc.) ½ cup sunflower seeds (flax seeds are great as well) ½ cup organic raisins (dried cranberries are good when in season) 1 tsp. sea salt (flake consistency is best) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large (4+ quart) sautÊ/sauce pan over medium high heat, add oil, honey, and brown sugar and mix well to incorporate. Bring to boil and add sliced apples. Reduce heat to simmer for a few minutes until thick and syrupy and apples are softened. Add spices, oats, oat bran, coconut, nuts, seeds, raisins, salt, and mix well. Pour mixture into large baking sheet (with at least ½ inch sides) and spread evenly, gently pressing down to pack it into pan. Place in oven and bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden and aromatic (watch the raisins so they don’t burn). Remove from oven and let cool thoroughly in pan. Remove from pan with spatula, breaking into pieces of desired size (we leave ours quite chunky, often resembling a granola bar more than granola). Top with yogurt or kefir or‌ Enjoy! *Feel free to email me at sarahhedger@gmail.com if you have any food-related questions.

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HOME/OUTDOOR

Kitchen Ideas

a hidden home office

By Sarah Day, San Luis Kitchen Co.

A

t San Luis Kitchen Co. we were recently presented with the challenge of combining a dining room and a home office. The space is used for entertaining, is visible from both the kitchen and the living areas, and thus we needed to provide a formal look while hiding the clutter of a desk and computer.

The homeowners were remodeling their entire house and were very concerned that they would lose precious storage space. What had been their home office was becoming a gracious second bedroom and a much-used closet was being integrated into a larger second bath and separate laundry room. So, when they came to us, they wanted to build a wall unit in their dining room that would be both a multi-function office/storage space and also a beautiful showpiece.

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How to accomplish this?

First, we had the clients think about and list all the items and functions that they needed to have included. The list included: closet storage deep enough for uniforms and outerwear, storage and use space for a large sewing machine, bookshelves, file drawers, miscellaneous storage of small items, a computer workstation with fax and printer, storage for office supplies, shelving for large binders, and generous general household storage.

Next come prioritization. The deep closet was a must while the sewing machine could be lifted out for use. We definitely needed bookshelves, file drawers, and general storage, but it would be nice to not see all the computer paraphernalia.

Now comes the solution. We created a 30” deep cabinet on one side that had adjustable shelves in the top and a clothes rod for hanging garments. The bottom of this cabinet was a perfect depth to store the sewing machine. Bookshelves were obvious as they are both practical and decorative – we added an arched valance as a finishing detail. We also included an 18” deep tall cabinet with adjustable shelves to allow lots of miscellaneous storage. Four file drawers look fine below the bookshelves with what-not drawers between and a beautiful matching wood top.

All that’s left is the computer gadgetry and desk area. We all decided that we did not

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As you can see from the photos, when the cabinet doors are closed, one would never guess all the uses this wall unit accommodates. The formal dining area is maintained while the needs of the homeowner are met in one compact space.

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want to see office equipment in the formal dining room. So, for the desk and monitor we built an 18” deep cabinet that was open to the wood counter at the bottom. It has doors which open extra wide for easy access to the work space but also close to hide away the clutter. The knee space was treated similarly with doors (with attached toe trim) that open wide for use but blend right into the cabinetry when closed.

COMMUNITY

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san luis county library be cool this fall at the library

By Margaret Kensinger-Klopfer, Youth Services SLO County Library

A

s October comes upon us, the library has a number of activities to chill your bones or warm your heart.

The Arroyo Grande Library will be headlining this month’s events with a one-man show of Edgar Allen Poe. On Saturday October 9th at 2 p.m., adults and students will be able to come face to face with the father of modern storytelling and American horror at the Arroyo Grande Library. This show will feature Duffy Hudson as Edgar Allen Poe, a mysterious combination of thrills, literacy experience and theater. Duffy Hudson will bring Poe back to the spot of his mysterious death to share The Raven, Annabel Lee, and The Tell-Tale Heart – three of Poe’s best known stories. This free 50-minute show will titillate adults and students alike, with question and answer session to follow. This will be just the thing to get you in the mood for Halloween.

Maybe ghosts don’t thrill you, but hiking and outdoor adventures do. Join the Atascadero Library in October for a wilderness survival course for adults and teens. Dave Wilson, the Instructor and Director of the Coyote Road School, will present an outdoor education program on Wednesday October 20th from 3:30-5:30 p.m. entitled, “Stranded! How Would you Survive?” This program will instruct young and old alike on the order of survival needs, how to make fire by friction, how to construct emergency shelters, and making string from a plant. Space is limited for this event so pre-registration is required, 461-6161. This free course will be held at the Atascadero Martin-Polin Library Community Room.

Other San Luis County Library events in October include: October 9th – The San Luis Obispo Library will join with the Central Coast Railroad Association for a celebration of all things library. This event will have things for young and old to enjoy, including model trains, a train movie for kids, and more. Check with the library for more information on these free events: 781-5775.

October 16 – Kick up your heels with the Atascadero Library crew at the Colony Days Parade. The Atascadero Friends of the Library and Atascadero MOMs Club might even give you a chance to ride on their float. www.atascaderofriendsofthelibrary.org.

A new class looks at Hollywood moguls, exploring the stories behind the men who started the major studios, following their climb from humble origins to Hollywood royalty. Cuesta College film historian Phil May will present documentaries, film clips and more. Classes begin Friday September 24th and run eight consecutive weeks. They start at 5:30 p.m. in the San Luis Obispo Library Community Room and will last about two hours. No reservations are required. For more information, contact Steve Kinsey at (805) 781-1215.

Based on her prize-winning book Searching for Soul — A Survivor’s Guide as a model for bringing one’s inner life to a meaningful level of awareness, author Bobbe Tyler will lead a writing workshop on six Saturdays – October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and November 13 (no class on No-

vember 6) – from 10 a.m. to noon at the San Luis Obispo Library, first floor conference room. Please bring Searching for Soul to each meeting along with writing materials. The book is available from the library, Duffy Hudson as Edgar Allen Poe at www.bobbetyler.com or local bookstores. There is no fee for the workshops. Registration is required by calling 781-5783 or via e-mail katardiff@slolibrary.org.

Update on Dental Care

Gum Disease and Your Health

W

e ’ r e le a r n i ng more about periodontal disease ever y day, and public Dr. Dassenko awa r en e ss of the problem is beginning to sharpen.

Most people k now now that gum disease is the single most prevalent cause of tooth loss, and the nu mbers a re st agger i ng: 80% of the population show some signs of disease. But new findings indicate a more perilous outcome than simple tooth loss.

Science has established a meaningful link between the presence of gum disease and

other disorders: the possibility of heart attack, stroke and, in pregnant women, low birth weight and premature delivery.

If a patient is being treated for heart disease and experiencing unexplained periodontal flareups, the dentist and primary physician should get together and compare notes. There’s a risky connection.

Do call our office if you have questions about this important health issue.

Pamela Dassenko, DDS practices cosmetic and family dentistry at: 1250 Peach Street, Suite G San Luis Obispo CA (805) 549-8483 www.DrDassenko.com

A Paid Health Commentary

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COMMUNITY

SLO county art scene a regional art collection

By Gordon Fuglie

W

hether you are a native of, or have relocated to San Luis Obispo County – and are something of an art maven, you may have wondered why there is no significant permanent art collection in our region, whether in a public museum or private nonprofit institution. Let’s ponder this matter via mapping the 101 state highway to get some perspective. If you start in Santa Barbara, the last regional art collection one can visit is the University Art Museum in Goleta at UC Santa Barbara. The next one? 250 miles north and a drive of four hours will bring you to the Monterey Museum of Art. It might seem there is not much in between.

Hold on there, you say, citing the art collection at Hearst Castle, San Simeon. But its stewards remind us that it is specific to the highly personal collecting endeavors of its former occupant, William Randolph Hearst (1863 – 1951). As fascinating as Hearst’s wide

ranging art holdings are, his collection is not displayed in a museum setting because preserving the site’s historical palatial integrity takes precedence; and only now – in 2010 – are large parts of his sprawling collection being cataloged according to professional museum standards. Incidentally, Hearst finally got his due with a major exhibition last year at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Hearst the Collector, accompanied by an impressive scholarly catalog. Indeed, the most important works that Hearst acquired are now the core of the Medieval art collection at LACMA. In the county seat, the recently re-named San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, formerly the Art Center, has a collection of mostly regional art, but unfortunately it is for the time being stored. SLOMA has a new building in its future plans.

Over at Cal Poly, however, one will find one of the better-kept secrets of public art collec-

Serving San

tions in our county. In August, I was hosted at the University’s Special Collections and University Archives by Catherine J. Trujillo,

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Julia Morgan

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COMMUNITY Early Sketches by Julia Morgan

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certain the collection is held in designated locations under lock and key. The registrar must also protect it from insects, ultra-violet light, and temperature fluctuations – and be alert to visitors, or even staff, with “sticky fingers.” Earthquake preparedness is a growing concern.

In addition, registrars are often the face of the collection to the public, its ambassador, and guide to the researcher, helping him get the most use from his visits – even directing him to unexpected discoveries. Who doesn’t love news accounts of finding long lost Michelangelo drawings, buried in obscurity for centuries?

During my visit to Cal Poly’s Special Collections, I sat at the visitor’s table and felt a frisson of excitement as Trujillo, white-gloved, delicately turned over sheet after sheet of Morgan’s Beaux-Arts pencil drawings, produced during her studies in Paris. There are few things as exciting as an immediate, intimate encounter with real art history, a journey in time that seems to give one the feeling of peeping over the artist’s shoulder.

who performs a number of functions, including that of collections registrar. I also met the amiable Tim Strawn, Director of Information Resources & Archives. Special Collections’ “secret” status has to do with its location. It occupies a corner of the fourth floor of the Robert E. Kennedy Library, and its interior is shielded from patrons by panels of mirrored glass. Among its impressive holdings are an array of artists’ books (among them, some unruly “underground comix”), an assortment of architectural materials (drawings, photographs and architect’s notebooks) and, significantly, the papers of California architect Julia Morgan (1872 – 1957). She was Hearst’s collaborator/ architect in shaping the Hearst Castle complex, as well as San Simeon Village. (Further north, in Jolon, she designed the Hearst Hacienda, along with some restorations at Mission San Antonio de Padua.

Locals know Morgan’s modest Monday Club building on Monterey Street in San Luis Obispo.) Trujillo’s job gives her oversight of these important historical and cultural works.

From my perspective, the stewardship of a public art collection could most readily be filled by Cal Poly’s Special Collections. The facility, staff and institutional support are already in place. All that’s needed is a broader vision and the leadership to address this longstanding need in our region.

Julia Morgan photo and Papers are from the Special Collections & University Archives, Robert E. Kennedy Library, California Polytechnic State University, SLO, 93407. 805-756-2305, http://lib.calpoly.edu/ specialcollections.

Professionally educated, experienced registrars are the linchpins in securing the legacy of any art collection. Basically, a museum registrar keeps track of the art by systematically cataloging it and makes

Courtesy Hearst Castle California State Parks O C T O B E R

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COMMUNITY

symphony of the vines Birth of a new chamber orchestra

By Natasha Dalton “Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.”

---Ella Fitzgerald James Riccardo is new to the Central Coast. He moved to the area when his wife, a psychologist, took a job at Atascadero State Hospital.

The couple “was looking for paradise,” and discovered it in the North County. They quickly found a house that they both loved, and Mr. Riccardo, a professional violinist, was about to begin exploring the county’s music scene. Their new home town was beautiful, but very different from what James was used to. Until now, he always tried to live in the biggest city possible, so that he could perform. Looking at his new house, he now imagined practicing violin while gazing at the gorgeous landscapes outside, but wondered about his future as a professional.

As it turned out, the future was waiting outside: in a matter of days Jim joined a new orchestra. “It’s a kind of luck,” he laughs. “I have this feeling that music always finds me, and it’s amazing how quickly it happened here! I remember two things about the day when I took possession of my new home. I walked up to the house, and found a citation at the door for not mowing the weeds. Then I walked down the driveway to meet my next-door neighbors. I knew that they had some difficulties with the previous owners of the house, because they were wild kids who played loud music. I wanted to put my new neighbors’ minds at ease, so I just said: ‘I play violin professionally.’

The neighbor’s eyes got really big, and he said: ‘What? That’s what I do!’” That’s how James learned that he now lived next-door to the concertmaster of the SLO Chamber Orchestra, Ronald Kiel!

Soon they were already making plans about playing together in a brand-new, high-quality Chamber Orchestra, and Ron knew just the man who could make these plans a reality – Greg Magie, the French horn player in the SLO Symphony. Greg Magie, who holds a DMA in Orchestral Conducting, had worked with the Rochester Philharmonic, Cabrillo Festival Orchestra, Redlands Symphony, Port Angeles Symphony, Pasadena Lyric Opera, as well as choirs and orchestras at Po-

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mona College and San Francisco State University. But when his ex-wife decided to move, Greg – wanting to stay close to his kids – gave up his established career, followed her to the Central Coast, and has since been thinking about starting a new local orchestra. “If residents of the North County want to hear classical music, they have to drive to San Luis Obispo. There aren’t any orchestras on the North side of the grade.

There’re art galleries, successful businesses and marching bands, and I think the area is ready for its own backyard orchestra as well,” he says.

“I am very hopeful that our endeavor will get off the ground, because I’ve been thinking for decades about how much I loved to play in a good small orchestra as opposed to larger symphonic orchestras,” Ron Kiel says. “I spoke to people about it and was looking for a good conductor who could work in the format of the chamber orchestra,” and Greg proved to be the perfect fit.

The Debut Concert of the Symphony of the Vines took place at the Cass Winery in September, and it was an instant success. “We wanted to make sure that when we put something out, it’s going to be great.” Greg Magie says. “People can accept a variety of music if it’s played beautifully, skillfully and with command. Symphony of the Vines is already a well-unified, wonderful orchestra. Our goal is to make great music and to enrich the lives of our audiences and the community as a whole – and it was very encouraging to see such a warm crowd who obviously enjoyed the performance.”

James Riccardo was pleased with the first concert as well. He, who in the past played with the finest national orchestras, including years with St Paul’s Chamber Orchestra, was happy to once again work with experienced musicians who shared his excitement and enthusiasm about chamber music. Even though just a week before the concert he pulled his back – when the big day came, he was ready. “I wanted to be a part of the show so much that on Tuesday before the concert, when we had a rehearsal, the pain just went away,” James says. “I could tell from that night that it was going to work. I was ecstatic to learn that Greg had put together a great violoncello section. We have three great viola players, and from the first rehearsal it was clear that they’re real professionals.”

Symphony of the Vines wants to be a great orchestra. More than that, they dream of becoming an orchestra like no other. They want to be an orchestra

Symphony of the Vines debut at Cass Winery O C T O B E R

Greg Magie, Jim Riccardo and Ron Kiel

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COMMUNITY which is responsive to its audience’s interests and which knows how to thrill and engage it. They plan to have at least four concerts a season, and to collaborate with great soloists and composers. Good opera singers, ballet dancers and fresh new music attract wider audience and are good for the orchestra, too: guests’ artistry helps musicians reach the new heights of their own potential.

“We want to build trust with our public,” Greg says. “And then we want to dazzle it with a rich variety of music.”

Our orchestra plays with conviction and joy that inject enthusiasm and energy into its music.”

Music lovers agree. “I was very impressed with the caliber of their performance,” said Dr. Richard Snodey, of Nis Ti Si Tsa International, after the group’s first concert.

George Wilkins, the Paso Robles-based composer, who in the past worked for Disney Imagineering, is also happy about the birth of the new orchestra. “The more good music around, the better,” he smiles.

35

“It’s a small community compared to what I am used to, but it has three things: great climate, great wine and great music,” James Riccardo sums up.

Who can argue with that? So now we have one more name to add to the list of the many Central Coast “greats” – Symphony of the Vines.

The Orchestra’s upcoming concerts are scheduled for Oct. 24, Jan. 16 and April 10, at 3 p.m., at Atascadero Bible Church; e-mail SymphonyVines@gmail.com for details.

“I love the name of our orchestra,” James adds.

“It doesn’t sound like anything I’ve ever heard in my life. I was so afraid that the name was going to become something like ‘Mid-County Community Chamber Orchestra’ or something like that. I just think that it’s a great name that conjures up such images! My big dream is that someday we’ll have an outdoor amphitheater on the side of the hill. As far as I am concerned, it’s always summer here – because I come from Minnesota – and I am envisioning summer nights; picnickers, gorgeous views – and enchanting music.”

“To be impressive, music doesn’t have to be terribly complicated,” Ron Kiel offers. “The most important thing for us is to be able to play with musicians who love what they do – that’s what makes a good orchestra. Good orchestra musicians aren’t there just for money. A good orchestra is a group of skilled musicians with a common vision and personal compatibility.

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COMMUNITY

Our Schools: Value added teacher evaluation

By Dr. Julian Crocker, County Superintendent of Schools

T

he topic of teacher evaluation is again in the news.

One of the reasons for this renewed attention is the re-birth of what is called “value added� evaluations. The matter of teacher evaluation was propelled into the news in August when the Los Angeles Times printed the names of 600 elementary school teachers in the Los Angeles Unified School District ranked by their “effectiveness� using a “value added� method of evaluation. A recent TIME magazine cover story about our public schools also addressed the matter of teacher evaluation.

Value added teacher evaluations are supposedly designed to give an objective measure of the impact a teacher has on student academic progress, or lack of progress, over a school year.

Standardized tests are used as the measure of academic progress for students. The target

for each student is to make at least one year’s academic growth, as measured by state tests, during a school year. We know that the most important factor in student success is the effectiveness of the teacher.Therefore, the assumption is that if the academic target for students is met or surpassed, then the teacher has “added value� to the learning of the student and is deemed to be an effective teacher. Conversely, if the target is not met, then the teacher has failed to add value and is less effective.

In the past, attempts to link student achievement directly to teacher performance evaluation have encountered several problems.

First, students arrive at school with greatly diverse family backgrounds. Some families are very supportive of good study practices and of the academic efforts of their children.

Others are not. Therefore, is it fair to judge the effectiveness of a teacher from student

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test scores when student performance is impacted by factors not under the teacher’s control? Another consideration is the prior learning that a student brings to class. If a student is below grade level proficiency at the start of the school year, is it fair to expect the same level of progress as students who have a higher level of beginning proficiency? Or, what about the differences in administrative support that teachers receive. These are just three of the factors that can obviously influence student performance, but are not under the control of the classroom teacher.

However, there are several recently developed teacher evaluation system that purport to account statistically for the variables not under the teacher’s control. These systems have been around since the early 90s, but have gained sophistication with the advent of statewide testing systems and the increased ability to access and utilize student assessment data.

A positive feature of value added teacher evaluations is the acknowledgement of the key role that the teacher plays in student success. I concur with the premise that if students are not succeeding, then the teacher first needs to examine what he or she is doing and not just blame the students. Another positive is that a value added system keeps the focus on student performance as the primary aspect of a teacher’s responsibility.

I agree with including the growth in student academic performance as an aspect of teacher evaluation, but not as the stand-alone measure of teacher effectiveness. The temptation is to place too much weight on what can be measured on standardized tests just because the data is available. For example, we also want our students to be good listeners, problem-solvers and participating citizens, none of which is the subject of our state testing program. Albert Einstein is reported to have said: “Just because we can measure something doesn’t make it important.�

Another caution I would offer for the current attention paid to value added teacher assessment is that it is touted as a way to evaluate and dismiss ineffective teachers. I believe that we currently have the tools needed to dismiss ineffective teachers and do not need to adopt a new teacher evaluation system. It is a myth that long-term teachers cannot be dismissed. My experience has been that a principal who is a frequent visitor in classrooms, who has a good system of documentation and who is committed to protecting students from ineffective teaching does not need a value-added system of evaluation to hold his/her staff accountable.

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Vets Voice

By Frank Rowan

M

y plan this month was to continue the summary of six years of hero of the month veterans as I said in the September issue.

But the best laid plans of mice and men often go astray. Wearing one of my other hats, I have been asked to emcee the BPOE 322, Public Safety and Law Enforcement awards dinner on October 18th. Besides honoring our police and safety personnel, the Elks will honor David Romero for his 56-years of service to the City of San Luis Obispo (Thirty-six as our City Engineer (Public Works Director) and twenty more as a City Councilman and Mayor). Though I had some dealings with Dave during my twenty engineering years at Cal Trans, I’ve really gotten to know him better as a member of the American Legion Post 66.

An interview was squeezed into his very busy Mayor’s schedule, so I could develop a bio about him for the awards dinner. I discovered he was sailor, and later a commissioned officer in the United States Coast & Geodetic Survey. Looking to save myself double work between Vets Voice and the Elks, Dave Romero agreed to join the ranks of Vets Voice heroes of the month.

Dave was born in my home town, Detroit Michigan. However he did not stay long because his folks were only visiting and soon returned him to Albuquerque, NM. His military experience began in 1946 when he signed up for the Navy V5 program with the intention of becoming a US Navy pilot.

At the time he did not meet the height requirements, but thought in a couple of years he would be taller and meet the requirements. While waiting, he was a naval reservist and was able to get in two years of college from the program. He still could not meet the height requirements for pilot training.

So, he had continue college on his own and received a Civil Engineering degree from the University of New Mexico, in 1950.

USC & GS Romero 1950 Mayor Romero 2010

After graduation he enlisted in the USC & GS as a deck officer and because of his brilliance and hard work was promoted to Ensign and later to Lieutenant Jr. Grade.

Dave served in Alaska on several USC & GS ships in Adak, Nome, Prince William Sound and even spent some time at Little Diomede where he could see Russia from his ship.

On a trip to Washington D.C. he met a beautiful young lady named Marybelle and convinced her to marry him in 1951. As they say, the rest is history. They continue to spend their life together going on 60 years.

In 1954 he and Marybelle left the USC & GS and headed west, where he was hired by the Los Angeles County Road Department.

In 1956 he became aware of a vacancy for the Public Works Director in a central coastal town called San Luis Obispo and being the smart individual he is, took that job.

It could be said he was instrumental in bringing SLO into the 20th century as Director, and the 21st century as Mayor. He is dedicated to San Luis Obispo and said during our interview that shortly after arriving here, in 1956, he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life here. There are many of us who share that feeling. David Romero’s engineering and political leadership helped make San Luis Obispo the beautiful city it has become.

If you would like to help honor him at the Public Safety honors dinner, at the Elks lodge, on October 18th, call 543-0322 and make a reservation for dinner.

In other Vets news, the Veterans Administration announced that the Montgomery

GI Bill payments for college has been raised from $47,000 to $51,000. This comes to $1426 a month for 36 months for those who have not yet started their benefit. For details, I suggest you contact your local County Veterans Service office. In San Luis Obispo the office is in the Veterans Memorial Building, 801 Grand Ave. Telephone 781-5766.

I have been informed the appointment of the new SLO County Veterans Service Officer, replacing retired, Michael Piepenburg, is pending. The position has been vacant for an extended time and I suspect it was because of the State and County budget problems as a way to save money, but I have not heard anything from the county officials.

It’s time to be thinking about Veterans Day. I am looking for information about any activities in your area for Veterans Day such as putting out flags on veterans graves, parades, etc. so I can list them here. But, I need the info before October 10th, which is the Journal Plus deadline for the November issue. For example, I would have liked to have pitched the 9/11 “American Thunder Rally” at Mitchell Park, in the September issue, but did not get notification until after our deadline. So get your veterans day celebration information to me as soon as you can.

Always keep in touch via telephone 543-1973 or e-mail frowan248@att.net and lets get together again, right here in November.

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history part 4

charles H. Johnson

By Joseph A. Carotenuti

B

y 45 years of age, Charles H. Johnson had experienced life as a seaman, merchant, federal employee, community leader, state assemblyman, farmer, husband, and father. Before settling locally, he had sailed from his home in Maryland on merchant ships to both coasts of Central America and at 23 to the wilds of pre-Gold Rush San Francisco. Working for Washington as a customs collector and marriage into an established Californios family finally allowed him to plant roots in the “dilapidated town” of San Luis Obispo…so characterized in a survey of State education in 1865.

The story continues…

If his new home was neither the older communities of the east coast, the historic grandeur of South American cities nor the turbulent city by the Bay, it was still home for his family. An energetic force in creating a civic entity, he contributed much of his life forming a community worthy of the name “town” as both an elected official and a responsible resident. Repeatedly, Charles H. Johnson offered both his political and business acumen to benefit the emerging town and then city (1876).

Yet, his life was more than accumulating wealth, noticed accomplishments or civic responsibilities. Johnson avoided public office from 1870 but continued to be a well-known and respected neighbor in the developing community. When Myron Angel published his seminal work, History of San Luis Obispo County (1883), he praised Johnson’s “writings and lectures” as being a source of much information for the book: “No person has paid greater attention to the early history of this section than he, being a resident of the county for upwards of a third of a century, and to no one could we go for a more intelligent source or more willing information.”

Angel’s stepson married Johnson’s daughter Mary Florence in 1884.

If he was not running for an office, he was a mainstay for the County Democratic Party and was president of the organization several times.

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The Tribune referred to the community leader as the “Ajax of San Luis Obispo Democracy” referring to the legendary Greek hero noted for bravery and courage. Over time, his involvement and enthusiasm for the party waned and years later, he claimed to be “independent.”

In 1876, when financing was needed for the narrow-gauge railway to extend inland, it was Johnson and land entrepreneur, Chauncey Hatch Phillips, who procured $28,500 to complete the project from Avila into San Luis Obispo. Indeed, four years later, Johnson chaired the meeting that changed the name of Port Harford to Port San Luis.

His speeches for public celebrations – appropriately called Orations – provide an informative insight into the man. So popular, several were printed in pamphlet form. While public and private deeds deserve recognition, the thoughts of this man also illuminate his character and education.

An Independence Day 1872 oration was written with only 24-hour notice. Filled with the expected patriotic fervor, the review of the speech considered it “worthy of the occasion.” Johnson promised an enduring nation if “young men and young women are taught to cherish happy and honorable homes.” For a man who had buried both a wife and son, the sentiment must have been more than words.

DOWNTOWN SAN LUIS OBISPO The Barneberg House built in 1914 for the family of millionaire bank owner John Barneberg. Old age craftsmanship displayed throughout.

From the wooden Wainscotting, to coved ceilings, grand entry staircase, ornate windows.

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The following September to raise funds for the newly formed Library Association, the topic was the establishment of the California missions.

Related in sonorous Victorian prose, “gracefully written” according to a review, Johnson considered the ruins as “…breathing symphonies which float down the stream of time, recounting in musical tones the unrecorded deeds of the heroes of the romantic period in California history.”

A founding member of the local Grange, Johnson pointed to agriculture as “the basis of all human progress” in a 6,000 word speech the following year.

Obviously, Johnson was an educated man who once gave free use of a building to house a classroom. Rudimentary at best, formal education – as well as a library – was prized in any progressive community. Speaking at the annual Teachers’ Institute, Johnson relates a personal philosophy: “The cultivation of the mind leads to spiritual excellence, which is the highest aim, the great end of man’s being, exalting him far above all the works of the Almighty.”

Teachers were “charged with the most responsible duties that can evolve upon a human being…” A few years later, he would marry one.

The evolution from a colony to a nation, the devastation to both the body and soul of the Union by Civil War as well as the centennial year required an exceptional speaker to capture not only the essence of the national agenda, but of local history as well. Who better than Johnson? A brief history of California, the oration should not remain buried in time.

As for the underpinnings of democracy and freedom, he proclaimed: “Truth, Justice, and Virtue” provide for sound judgments and actions.

Yet Liberty itself is not free from restraint. “It is simply a moral freedom which imposes moral obligations…” in the governance of the country. A recapitulation of both national and state history in 9000 words ends: “The grand distinction of our country is, it recognizes the inalienable rights of man, and that intelligence, imagination and moral force were given to him by the Creator, not to be chained down by despotic authority, but for free expansion.”

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Johnson lived another half century to participate in both the best – and worse – of “free expansion.”

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hospice corner Hospice care – frequently asked questions

By Laurie Lackland, RN, BSN

W

ouldn’t life be great if we knew about every service that is available to us to make life easier as we go though it? And, when we get to the end of life, wouldn’t it be a little bit easier if we knew about the services that are available to get through that final stage?

At Hospice Partners, we try and educate the residents of our community about hospice care and end-of-life services. Over the years, we hear many of the same questions concerning hospice. Here are some of those frequently asked questions: Are all hospices the same? No. Most of the 4,500 hospices in the United States are licensed to provide a comprehensive program that includes medical care as well as emotional and spiritual support.

Many communities have more than one licensed and certified hospice. There are both non-profit and for-profit hospices in the United States. Medicare requires that all certified hospices provide a basic level of care, but the quantity and quality of all services can vary from one hospice to another. Hospice Partners is a non-profit, state licensed, Medicare and Medi-Cal certified Hospice Agency that goes beyond the basic Medicare requirements by providing quality, state-of-the-art hospice care to the residents of our community.

Should patients and families wait for their physician to bring up the subject of hospice? People need information to make informed decisions. Patients and families should feel free to initiate the discussion with their physician on the possibility of hospice care as an option. Some physicians are hesitant on bringing up the subject; but once the subject is broached, they usually are comfortable in discussing hospice as a positive course of care for patients who meet the criteria. Contacting a licensed and Medicare certified hospice agency for information and an evaluation is also an option. At Hospice Partners, about 50% of the patients who come onto our hospice service contacted us directly for information and an evaluation, prior to any discussion with their physicians.

Is caring for the patient at home the only place hospice care can be delivered? No. Hospice patients can receive care in their personal residences, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, board and care facilities and inpatient hospice units/facilities.

Does hospice provide care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? Generally, no. Hospice care does not include a nurse in the home 24/7.

Qualified hospice staff is on call for emergencies 24 hours a day. The patient will have periodic visits from the hospice team which,

at Hospice Partners, includes physicians, nurses, home health aides, medical social workers, dietitians, therapists, spiritual and bereavement counselors, hospice musicians and volunteers.

What specific assistance does hospice provide? In addition to comprehensive medical care and emotional and spiritual support, hospices provide medications, supplies, equipment, and other services related to the terminal illness.

If the patient is not covered by Medicare or any other health insurance, will hospice still provide care? If there appears to be no coverage, the first thing licensed hospices will do is to assist families in finding out whether the patient is eligible for any coverage they may not be aware of. Most non-profit hospices will provide for anyone who cannot pay using money raised from the community through donations, fundraising events, bequests and grants. Hospice Partners will not turn away qualified hospice patients who have no insurance or means of payment.

What if the patient gets better? If the patient’s condition improves and the disease seems to be in remission, patients can be discharged (“graduated”) from hospice and return to aggressive therapy or go on about their daily life. If the discharged patient should later need to return to hospice care, Medicare and most private insurance will allow additional coverage for this purpose.

Does hospice provide any help to the family after the patient dies? Yes. Most licensed hospices provide continuing contact and support for family members for at least a year following the death of a loved one. In addition, some hospices, including Hospice Partners, provide bereavement support for anyone in the community who has experienced a death of a family member, a friend, or similar loss, regardless if the person died on hospice.

For answers to additional questions, visit our website at www.hospicepartnerscc. org, click on “Our Services” and then “Frequently Asked Questions;” or e-mail Laurie Lackland, RN, BSN at llackland@ wilshirehcs.org This monthly Hospice Corner is sponsored

by Hospice Partners of the Central Coast.

Laurie Lackland, RN, BSN is the Director of Patient Care Services at Hospice Partners.

For more information, call (805) 782-8608.

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Downtown

Around

The Magazine of Downtown San Luis Obispo

Inside:

W h a t ’s U p New Business News

October 2010

W h a t ’ s

U p

A r o u n d

A

aaaah-ktober! With fall officially underway, a new kind of energy permeates the air around here. The lazy days of summer give way to an action-packed season full of activities and events in Downtown that signal a shift from vacations and beach days to weekends and evenings of local fun. Enjoy special events at Farmers Market and weekend festivals in Mission Plaza that showcase the bounty of our beautiful area and remind us of how lucky we are to live and play here.

D o w n t o w n

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AM (now that’s quick!) while onlookers marvel at the speed at which the renderings unfold before them; those same works will be auctioned off in the amphitheatre at noon! The Festival continues through October 3. Visit www.sloartcenter.org.

B

ring the entire family to the Downtown Farmers Market on Thursday, October 7 for the annual—and wildly popular—Fire Prevention Deborah Cash, CMSM, Night. Kids are thrilled to see the firefighters Executive Director and their equipment up close and personal and f you haven’t yet attended Arts Obispo’s learn all about the importance of fire safety and Art After Dark, you’re in for a treat when you the dangers of fire fighting. Seven agencies from around do. Over time, this ‘progressive party’ where the the county (no ‘r’) are positioned along Higuera Street throngs traipse from one end of Downtown to the showcasing their vehicles and fire safety apparatus for other enjoying art, music and refreshments in galleries, inspection. SLO Fire Department mascot Sparky the businesses and studios has gained in popularity and Fire Dog and CAL FIRE mascot Smokey Bear will also attendance and for many has become a regular date. be on hand reminding everyone to be fire safe and A complete schedule for this monthly first-Friday smart. This year’s event will commemorate Fire Chief evening event is available at www.artsobispo.org.

John Callahan who passed away unexpectedly on August 18. Call Reyes at 541-0286 for more information. on’t stay out too late, though, if you plan to watch more art in action at the SLO Museum of Art’s Plein s you may now be aware, with the advent of Air Painting Festival in Mission Plaza the next day, October pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns and costumes in 2. Artists from around the country (that’s with an ‘r’) paint all the store windows and advertisements, it’s almost merrily away at the Quick Draw Paint Out from 9 – 11:30 Hallowe’en. (Now that’s spooky for us because we just

I

D

A

On the Cover: A young fry eyes his Ketchup partner as if to say “Hey, don’t get any ideas, these are just costumes!” at last year’s

Hallowe’en Kids Costume Contest Downtown. Contestants at the annual event, this year October 28, include tykes of all ages including pairs with parents; winners take home great prizes generously donated by Downtown businesses. Photo by Deborah Cash

W h a t ’ s

U p

A r o u n d

finished hauling all the Concerts and Taste of San Luis® supplies to storage and here we are schlepping back the scarecrows, garland and twinkle lights we’ll be using in the next month or so. We think there should be a new holiday, called “Breather.” On second thought, we’d just fill it up with something, and besides, events and activities are our lifeblood so I take that back.)

A

nyhow, Hallowe’en is really a lot of fun Downtown. Starting with SLO County’s Great Pumpkin Contest in Mission Plaza during Farmers Market on October 21 and then our annual fun filled eve including Howl’O’Ween Hoopla (a joint venture of the SLO Downtown Association and the City of SLO Parks and Recreation), Hallowe’en Trick or Treat Downtown and the evening’s highlight Kids Costume Contest on October 28 at Farmers Market, kids and their families can experience the occasion in a safe and secure atmosphere. And, it’s kind of like double dipping for the little goblins as they get to don their costumes and bag more candy again on the 31st!

W

hat’s the point of all this fun, magic and hoopla, really? Events are part

?

of our Main Street mission to bring people Downtown where they can enjoy the company of their community neighbors, be reminded of the attractiveness of their own ‘front yard’ and be encouraged to contribute to their own well-being by shopping, dining and using local services. With constant news that the economy stubbornly refuses to snap out of it and that jobs are scarce and money is tight, Downtown is responsive in offering things to do—many for free—that help lift the spirits and counter the feeling that times are ‘bad.’ While guests may not spend a lot of money when they’re Downtown at events, many will remember they had a good time here and want to come back, perhaps for that pair of jeans they saw in the window or that work of art they paused to enjoy during Art After Dark. Our job is to keep the energy flowing; October events are crucial in the transition from summer to winter, both an art and a ‘séance’…around Downtown.

N

Cluster-phobic? Not this little bud on the vine at last year’s contest! Photo by Deborah Cash

REIS FAMILY M O RT U A R I E S

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Infin8 Beauty Salon & Supply Todd LeMay, Owner 1029 Chorro St. 805-787-0888 www.facebook.com/infin8beauty

clientele for about four years. He relocated from the San Joaquin Valley to the Central Coast and began his career in hair design here leading him to open The Bladerunner in 1986, a business that still thrives today and has twice moved from smaller spaces to its current spacious, contemporary setting on the corner of Morro and Monterey streets, one block from the Mission. Infin8 Beauty is just around the corner at 1029 Chorro Street.

After listening to customers talk about their product needs, longtime owner of Downtown business The Bladerunner Salon Spa Store, Todd LeMay realized there was a high demand in San Luis Obispo for a LeMay believes the key to a successful Beauty Supply providing a vast selection Todd LeMay with stylist Ariel Adams business is excellent customer service so the of beauty products for the public with the client leaves feeling happier than they were closest locations being in Paso Robles and Pismo. when they stepped through the door. “Being positive, friendly, To meet this demand, LeMay opened his second salon in Downtown and attentive to customers is quintessential to making them this April called Infin8 Beauty Salon & Supply. This salon differs feel comfortable and satisfied with the service,” he said. from most because it specializes in supplying beauty products, New clients receive first-time discounts as a welcome introduction currently offering over 30 of the latest and trendiest professional to Infin8 Beauty. Special deals such as major discounts off products beauty product lines for purchase. And, customers just looking and even free haircuts (to the first customers who show up at for typical salon service can find solace in Infin8 Beauty Salon the door) are offered regularly in the store and on Facebook. & Supply’s two salon chairs that are ready for anyone in need Infin8 Beauty Salon & Supply is open 7 Days: of a haircut, color or a walk in shampoo and blow dry style.

Monday thru Friday 10-6 p.m., Thursday 10-9 p.m., LeMay began his career in hair design at 18. After graduating Saturday 10-5 p.m. and Sundays 11-4 p.m. from Lyles College of Beauty, he began developing his own

By Anthony Tan

Catalyst Marketing Group

Brandon Collins & Isaac Duchon, Owners (L-R) 979 Osos Street Ste. F2 (805) 996-0391 www.catalystslo.com “Cunning creativity” best describes Catalyst Marketing Group, a full-service advertising agency that provides advertising, public relations, graphic design and other marketing services.

Whether working with traditional or contemporary advertising media, Catalyst Marketing Group emphasizes cost efficiency and works to enhance their clients’ marketing at reasonable rates while at the same time producing creative messages and images to help their clients’ businesses thrive.

Owners and Cal Poly graduates Brandon Collins and Isaac Duchon established impressive credentials in business/marketing backgrounds: Collins has a degree in business marketing with a minor in graphic communications and Duchon has a degree in

3C Engineering, Inc.

Jason K. Haendler, P.E., CxA, Kelly T. Robinson, P.E.,LEED AP, CxA, Christopher D. Lewis, Owners (L-R) 1065 Higuera Street, Suite 202 (805) 540-3363 www.3ceng.com

management and marketing. Both boast diverse backgrounds and experience in advertising, sales, graphic design and media, having previously worked for television and print industries. In April of this year, the duo decided to launch their own business after seeing an opportunity to provide cost-effective services for local businesses. “We chose Downtown because it’s the life of SLO,” said Duchon. “Everything is going on here and it is where you want to be. We want to support Downtown and San Luis Obispo.”

The co-owners’ plans for the future are to explore new marketing methods while maintaining affordable marketing strategies. “When it comes to our clients, we have their best interests at heart,” said Collins. “We work with them as their marketing department, rather than just a company doing their advertising. We keep lots of contact with our clients—their goals are our goals.”

Catalyst Marketing Group is open Monday thru Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

By Maria Contreras Central Coast, specializing in the design and installation of energy management systems for commercial and industrial facilities. They offer design consulting for heating, ventilating, air conditioning and plumbing systems and provide test and balance services for air and water systems. The firm is a member of the United States Green Building Council and is accredited in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and incorporates Green Building design standards on every project possible. “Our plan is to help customers achieve their energy goals. There is a need for saving energy and large buildings are going to want to reduce and monitor their energy use. That’s where we come in,” said Haendler.

3C Engineering, Inc. is a professional engineering services firm located next to BlackHorse Espresso & Bakery on Higuera Street. Owners Jason Haendler, Kelly Robinson and Christopher Lewis have been in the industry for ten years, working together at a design/build company before seeing a need for independent building automation contractors and The owners said their Downtown location is key for the firm starting a firm of their own. Lewis is a native of Santa Maria while because of its central location to both north and south county Haendler and Robinson are licensed engineers who graduated clients, attracting general contractors, architects and building from Cal Poly with bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering. owners from Paso Robles to Santa Barbara. 3C Engineering Where most engineering firms specialize in one area of is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. expertise, 3C Engineering provides three services to best suit the

By Maria Contreras

48

BUSINESS

Palm Street Perspective council challenges with council-member changes

By SLO City Councilman, Allen Settle

I

have served the city and community for over thirty years as mayor, council member and planning commissioner. I have represented our community on a variety of other committees such as the League of California Cities revenue and taxation committee, Airport Land Use Commission and the Local Agency Formation Commission both as a local member and statewide representative.

However, the success of the city is in large part because of the close attention the voters have given towards major policy goals

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The city also has one of the most professional staffs when compared to the other 476 cities in the state. The challenge for new council members and staff is to continue the level of professionalism and expertise needed to have a successful city.

Yet future challenges also continue to pose a threat to our local control of community policies and representatives. Proposition 22 by the League of California Cities is asking the voters to change the state Constitution to prevent the state government from taking any more city money to balance the state budget. The state legislature has consistently failed to adopt the budget at the start of the fiscal years. The 2004 measure received 84% voter approval with a majority approval from both Democrats and Republicans in all fiftyeight counties.

However, it allowed the state to borrow in budget emergencies and it has done just that since 2004. The state continues in an ongoing financial crisis with the lowest credit rating of the fifty states.

(805) 550-0125 Ali Hough

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such as growth management, maintenance of the infrastructure, open space hillside acquisition, neighborhood preservation, and financial accountability in achieving a balanced budget. Voters have participated in making their views known to the city council and holding council members accountable. The council in turn has been accessible and responsive. For example, it has also responded to prevent future water shortage problems by approving and completing the Nacimiento water project to insure the city will no longer need to declare a building moratorium and water rationing of all residents. We continue to be one of the most desirable communities to live.

Further, voters need to realize that state agencies have more authority than do city councils because all local governments are administrative arms of the state. The Regional Water Quality Control Board, whose

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members are not elected, can determine if waterways in the city have a “beneficial use� or not. If they do, the treatment plant may need another $40 million upgrade that will impact all sewer rates.

Also the city must get a variety of permits to maintain Laguna Lake and these agencies seem to care little that the lake is silting up and becoming a marsh. Housing and Community Development demands the city have a regional fair share-housing requirement on a standard the state determines independent of the city.

Council time will be mostly occupied by land use and budget issues. The city needs to update the land use and circulation element and show voters what changes are made rather than writing a new document.

Measure H seeks to block the Prado Road connection to Broad Street and if passed would result in major traffic problems to streets such as Broad, Tank Farm and slow emergency service response times.

The council must deal with meeting the new increased costs of the Public Employment Retirement System that will cost millions of dollars. Also employees will want to remain competitive in salary levels in both cost of living adjustments and step increases. The voters put binding arbitration for pubic safety in the charter and this can result in one labor association demanding higher pay than others that do not have that option.

With Charter term limits and binding arbitration, along with state unfunded mandates, the State taking city revenues, voters will need to pay close attention to who is elected to the council and appointed to commissions. Therefore, please attend the vital January budget goal setting meetings to tell the council where you think the city priorities should be for the next two budget years. This is your opportunity to insure this city remains a first-class community in the future.

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eye oN business hot wheels makes for lunch fun

By Maggie Cox, Barnett Cox & Associates

L

ittle did I know that when I sat down to lunch recently with Ron Yukelson and Joe Whitaker, I’d enjoy a better-than-expected fun and enlightening afternoon. Ron works as a marketing pro at Sierra Vista by day and Hot Wheels collector by night. Joe is a former senior executive of Mattel Toys, where he led the marketing team charged with launching the phenomenally successful Hot Wheels product line. I have not a bit of interest in toy cars, but I do love watching a great connection come together.

For the uninitiated: Hot Wheels is a line of miniature cars that launched with Joe’s marketing wizardry in 1968. Elliot and Ruth Handler, founders of the Mattel Toy Company, wanted a competitor to England’s immensely popular Matchbox Cars. The Matchbox line offered collectible, miniature reproductions of real cars, packaged in a matchbox style box. They were a hit.

The Mattel leadership challenged the company’s research and development team members to outthink the Matchbox line. Joe was working at Mattel at the time and tells great stories of what followed.

Secrecy and confidentiality and cloak-and-dagger caution with anyone not immediately involved with the project. Joe says that on a day in 1967 he still remembers vividly, he was called with other execs to a meeting in one of Mattel’s conference rooms. “Be there at 10 a.m.”

He was. At the meeting, a new product prototype was unveiled.

It was a tiny toy car designed to mimic real American car design, and it differed from Matchbox cars in one other critically important respect – it was built for play. No sitting-on-a-shelf collectible here. It had a unique free wheeling axle and wheels capable of actually rolling, and boy, did they. The gang gathered in the conference room that day watched as an R&D team leader introduced the Hot Wheels car, sending it flying down the table with the touch of a finger – much to the delight of the audience around the table.

Joe says he remembers it like yesterday. He got a palpable tingle down his spine and knew something quite amazing was flying down the table in front of him. How right he was! Before the meeting even adjourned, Elliot Handler made the offhand comment, “Those wheels are really hot!” The name stuck and the rest is history.

In the years that followed, the Hot Wheels brand continued to expand.

Signature orange plastic interlocking raceway track pieces grew to become elaborate speedways with twists and turns and figure 8 curves.

Hot Wheels expanded from being merely miniatures of Americanmade car models to include a line of tiny versions of famous real-life racing cars plus fantasy cars created from the developers’ imaginations.

Ron and his brother were just two of the toy’s international cadre of fans. Ron rescued the collection when he discovered it while cleaning out his dad’s garage some years ago. And lest you think this is a

toy of the past, nope, Hot Wheels has 42 years’ strong staying power and third generation devotees. Case in point – at our lunch we ran into CPA Hillary Trout, lunching with her 13-year old son, Emerson.

Emerson’s eyes lit up at the car collection spread out on the table. Yep, he knew what they were.

Joe has lots of stories about how the cars were manufactured and packaged, how they were promoted and advertised and how they just took off into a worldwide phenomenon. The marketer in me loved it all, but the very best was watching Ron and Joe. There they were, two guys rummaging through a Hot Wheels collectible carrying case and reminiscing about the toy cars of the past. It sure made for a great afternoon.

SAVE MONEY BY

DONATING YOUR CAR Proceeds from sale may be tax deductible!

We do all DMV paperwork!

All vehicles offered for sale in San Luis Obispo benefiting Local Goodwill Programs. Donations support workforce development services in SLO County.

“Our business is changing lives.”

544-0542 or 1-800-549-5920 GOODWILL INDUSTRIES, SAN LUIS OBISPO 880 Industrial Way, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

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THE BULLETIN BOARD

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dimensions in dance at allan hancock college Real Estate

Lynn R. Cooper Broker Associate Seniors Real Estate Specialist

Office: 805-543-7727 Fax: 805-543-7838 Cell: 805-235-0493 Home: 805-544-0673

711 Tank Farm, Suite 100 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 E-mail: lynn.cooper@sothebysrealty.com Website: www.wilsonandcosir.com

Gary A. Sage License No. 0E02096 100 Cross Street, Suite 203 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 gsage@dibu.com

(805) 593-1400 (805) 593-1401 fax (805) 593-1413 direct (805) 235-1043 cell

DIMENSIONS IN DANCE, Allan Hancock College’s annual fall concert, runs October 7 - 10 in Santa Maria at the Marian Theatre on the main campus in Santa Maria, California. Eleven original dances performed and choreographed by faculty and students include ballet, jazz, modern, tap, and hip-hop. Shows are 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets ($12 - $15) are available at the college’s Performing Arts Center Box Office or by calling (805) 922-8313.

photo contest for kids – art center morro bay The ART CENTER MORRO BAY’s Just for Kids, It’s a Photo Contest Entrants must be 5 to 14 years old. Entry fee is $5.00 for up to three entries, all entries must be 8X10 - unframed and unmounted. Your name, address and phone number must be included with your entry.

Winners will be notified by phone and will be expected to attend a prize/award reception at ACMB with their parents. Contest Deadline is October 15th. The contest theme is “Nature.” Things in your own backyard, on the beach and people, places and things downtown. Mail your entries to: Art Center Morro Bay – Photo Contest, 835 Main St. Morro Bay, CA 93442 Call 556-0348 for information.

rotaract club of slo – coats for kids drive The Rotaract Club of SLO is giving back to the community by organizing a “Coats for Kids” drive through October. Similar to Toys For Tots, coat collection stations will be set up throughout San Luis Obispo at local schools, banks, churches and high traffic businesses to collect old jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts and coats. The apparel will be distributed to the Women’s Shelter, Prado Day Center, Family Care Network, Police Department, Churches, etc. For more information about Coats For Kids or about getting involved in Rotaract, contact Naomi Oyler at noyler@yahoo.com, Dominic Tartaglia at Dominic@Tartagliarealty. com or Reyes Miranda at Reyes@DowntownSLO.com.

grant awards for children’s dental clinic

QUALITY AUTO REPAIR

John Kimball

805-543-3180 www.wronas.com

109 South Street SLO, CA 93401

“Specializing in Honesty and Integrity”

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Partnership for the Children of SLO County received grant funding from the County and City of SLO totaling $20,000 for the 2010-11 fiscal year in support of children’s dental services at La Clinica de Tolosa. The County’s Preventive Health Grant for $15,000 will help cover expenses for dental services requiring the use of IV sedation or general anesthesia. The City’s Grant-In-Aid award for $5,000 will help cover expenses for the provision of dental care to children residing in the City. More information can be found online at www.clinicadetolosa.org, or call 805-238-5334.

fundraiser for Rianna Rianna is a cancer survivor. When she was 1 1⁄2 years old she was diagnosed with Wilm’s Tumor. She underwent surgery to remove the tumor and her left kidney. Today, Rianna is 17 years old and was recently diagnosed with kidney failure/chronic kidney disease. Rianna and her parents have been traveling back and forth to Stanford for Rianna’s ongoing medical treatment and now, she needs a kidney transplant.

Please join us for a Benefit BBQ to help raise money for the cost of uncovered medical treatment and living/travel expenses, as Rianna will have to stay up at Stanford for 3 months post-op. All proceeds will benefit Rianna. Thank you for your support. Saturday, October 16th, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Santa Rosa park, SLO, $10 for tri tip dinner.

For tickets, call 423-5950 .

new director of maternal child services at svRmc Rialda (Ria) Grobler, RN, has been named Director, Maternal Child Services at Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center.

In this role, Grobler is responsible for management and operations of both the Labor & Delivery and Mother Baby Units. On average, about 100 babies are born at Sierra Vista each month.

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Service for All Your Cars Personal Service. Exceptional Car Care.

For a full line of cars serviced by Rizzoli’s, please visit RizzolisAutomotive.com.

For Over 32 Years

San Luis Obispo 805.541.1082

Santa Maria 805.922.7742

RizzolisAutomotive.com

A.G. centennial committee wants your help

A meeting to update and include the community on plans for the city’s Centennial Celebration has been planned for Tuesday, October 19th, at 6 p.m., at the South County Regional Center, 800 West Branch Street in Arroyo Grande. The committee is looking for service clubs, churches, community organizations and individuals that would like to participate by helping out with planned events, or by creating complimentary events to take place up until, and during the celebration weekend of July 8-10, 2011. Events to date include a Century Bike Ride, Centennial Ball, Parade, dedication and burying of a time capsule, historical re-enactments, railroad exhibit, old-fashioned country-themed dances, and a Centennial Run. The festivities will conclude with fireworks over the historic village. Arroyo Grande residents turning 100 in 2011 will be honored with commendation by the City Council and with special recognition at the event. More information about the Arroyo Grande Centennial Celebration can be found at arroyograndecentennial.org.

Bill Mott

Loan Officer / DRE Lic #01359516

805.234.5081

bmott@bankofcommercemortgage.com www.bankofcommercemortgage.com

central coast follies 8th annual fundraiser The 8th annual all singing and dancing show for the benefit of Parkinsons Disease Research by the Central Coast Follies. The event will be held at the Clark Center and features music from around the world, lively dancing and fabulous feather costumes. Oct 7 & 8, Thur & Fri evenings, at 7:00 p.m. and Oct. 9 & 10, Sat & Sun matinees, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets $20.00; group rates available. For tickets call Clark Center at 489-9444.

SUDOKU SOLUTIONS Exterior & Interior Plastering

Custom Homes and Patch Repairs · Free Estimates · Call or stop by

Terry Evans, President

4180 Vachell Lane · San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805/541-4750 · 805/541-4118 FAX

cathi@sloplastering.com · terry@sloplastering.com CA LIC#759246

Frank

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HowaRd J. NiCHolsoN, Mai, sRa, GRi, sREs BRokER/owNER

40 Years of Comprehensive Real Estate Experience •

Cal Poly Graduate • R.E. Broker • Real Estate Appraiser • Appraisal Institute Member • CA Licensed General Building Contractor

THE aGENT YoU sHoUld HaVE woRkiNG FoR YoU Call: (805) 440-4835 e-mail: hnicholson@charter.net

HYOSUNG cancer connections celebrates 5th Birthday

Huge End of Summer Blowout Sale!

Why Buy Used?

Two Year Warranties on all Scooters 3566 S. Higuera, SLO

ccmechanics.com

(805) 786-4559

Some of the over 60 members of Cancer Connections of SLO County gathered recently to celebrate their upcoming 5th birthday. Cancer Connections began in November 2005 and is a grass roots organization of people who have had cancer who are willing to speak with people who have recently been diagnosed with cancer. There are members of Cancer Connections who have been care providers and they are willing to speak with cancer care providers to give them some support too. This service is free and confidential. Please call Cancer Connections at 805-235-2997. Talk with “someone who has been there.”

12th annual open studios art tour – it’s free What better way to celebrate National Arts & Humanities Month than to visit artists’ studios throughout scenic SLO County! The Open Studios Art Tour, takes place during 3 weekends in October (October 9th, 16th and 23rd from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and features the work of 252 artists on display in studios and galleries. For the first time, the full-color Tour catalog is free to visitors and can be downloaded from ARTS Obispo’s website. The catalog serves as a guide to all 3 weekends of the Tour providing a complete listing of artists’ studios, including images, addresses and detailed maps. A printed catalog is available now at the ARTS Obispo office, SLO Creamery Space #175, in downtown SLO. A complete list of these locations can be found on the Open Studios page of ARTS Obispo’s website (www.artsobispo.org). For more information call 544-9251.

Local Books: My name is rosie

Dressing Windows in San Luis Obispo for over 35 Years

alan’s draperies 544-9405

Alan “Himself” O C T O B E R

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Author, Kate Updike O’Connor writes snippets of her Corgie’s life, named Rosie. Rosie shares a peek at her early memories and daily life in 14 whimsical snippets, including Driving Around in the Car, Suppertime, No Barking, and That Scary Wind. Illustrated with beautiful pen and ink drawings by local artist Chloe White, My Name is Rosie is the perfect gift for dog lovers everywhere. The Queen of England has a copy, courtesy of the author. Carol Kelsey-Frilot, a local designer, created the cover and formatted the text and illustrations. The book sells for $8.95 and is available at local bookstores on the Central Coast, including Santa Barbara, and in Northern California, as well as online at www.mynameisrosie.com. Part of the proceeds from the sale of the book go to Woods Humane Society.

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make a difference day returns to slo county

On Saturday, October 23, individuals and groups in SLO County are invited to come together in the spirit of community and volunteerism to lend a hand to local nonprofit agencies, as a part of the 12th Annual Make a Difference Day. As one of SLO County’s largest single-day volunteer events, participants can choose from approximately 30 projects around the county, ranging from special events, environmental clean ups, to helping seniors or children. Check-in is at 9:00 a.m. in Chumash Auditorium at Cal Poly, and service projects last from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; most are located within San Luis Obispo city. Participants are provided with a complimentary continental breakfast and lunch; parking is free in the Grand Avenue parking structure on campus next to the Performing Arts Center. Volunteers are encouraged to dress comfortably, wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, gardening gloves, water bottle and sunscreen. Individual volunteers will be able to sign up in advance by visiting www.volunteerslo.org or the morning of the event at Chumash Auditorium. Groups of employees from local businesses that would like to volunteer together may sign up by calling Horace Morana at (805) 541-1234. For more information about Make a Difference Day, contact Owen Martin at 756-5120 or cpcommunitycenter@gmail.com.

252 Higuera Street San Luis Obispo (805) 541-TIRE

San Luis Obispo’s Best Kept Secret Power Carts Senior Discount (55) • 10 Play C ards • Tournaments Welcome •

spanish day at the old adobe

•

Bring your family and friends; let the neighbors know too! Sunday, October 3rd from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the festivities at the old RiosCaledonia Adobe in San Miguel will honor its Spanish past with food, Latin music, local wines and artisans displaying their handmade wares.

J and J Cellars will be pouring wine for tasting; tacos by Monica and Friends and Grant Chase and Group will provide the ambiance with Brazilian jazz music.

Tee Times on our website: lagunalakegolfcourse.org or call 805-781-7309

11175 Los Osos Valley Road, SLO

free senior health screening

Specializing in…

Free Senior Health Screening for seniors (50+) is available throughout San Luis Obispo County. Free services include: screening for high blood pressure, weight and pulse. Finger prick screening tests for: high cholesterol, anemia and diabetes. Take-home screening test kits for colo-rectal cancer available for $5. Nutritional counseling and referrals as needed. Please call 788-0827 for dates, times and locations.

• Threading • Brow Design • Custom Bikini Waxing

3ABRINA #ARELLI

Board Lic. Esthetician, Massage Practitioner & Make-up Artist

the 80th pioneer day and parade – it’s free

Visitors and locals alike will get a taste of what it was like back in the days of the early pioneers as they enjoy live music, a bean cook off, a pet show, a little cowgirl/cowboy contest, a car show and an exciting old fashioned parade through downtown. Located in Downtown City Park, Paso Robles, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on October 9th. For more information, visit www.pasoroblespioneerday.org.

• Skin Care Treatments • Featuring Dermologica Products

Kim & Co. Salon and Day Spa 2103 Broad Street, SLO

Photograph by Mike Larson

(805) 541-5424

•

www.kimandcosalon.com

Video Surveillance Cameras

Golf fundraiser for one-year-old, Jake

Trilogy Central Coast is having a fundraiser Golf Tournament where all proceeds will be donated to Jake Gilbert, one-year-old son of Trilogy Sales Rep, Josh and Jennie Gilbert. Jake recently had a malignant tumor removed from his brain. The Golf Tournament & dinner will be held at Monarch Dunes on Saturday, October 16th a with a 1pm shotgun start. For more information contact one of our concierges at the Monarch Club at (805)343-7510.

Night Vision Cameras View on Cell Phone Wireless or Wired Lic# 943604

Dennis Gisler 800.660.3178 • 805.541.4488 • www.AdvancedPage.com O C T O B E R

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COMMUNITY OCTOBER birthdays include author Elmore Leonard, host Johnny

OCTO BER Almanac

Carson, and coach Bobby Knight.

By Phyllis Benson

wants to come to practice.

KNIGHTISM: Everyone wants to be on a winning team, but no one

“All the ancient classic fairy tales have always been scary and dark.”

--- Helena Bonham Carter

OCTOBER 15, 1930: Duke Ellington recorded his first big hit,

“Mood Indigo.” He said, “Well, I wrote that in 15 minutes while I was waiting for my mother to finish cooking dinner.”

OCTOBER 1960: CBS broadcast the premiere episode of “Route 66” OCTOBER is harvest month. Enjoy these autumn days of orchard tours and produce markets.

featuring a couple of guys in an inherited Corvette travelling the Mother Road.

AUTUMN WINDS: On Oct. 10, 1960, a cyclone hit the Gulf of

NATIONAL NEWSPAPER WEEK is Oct. 3-9. Former delivery

boys include Dwight D. Eisenhower, Herbert Hoover and Harry S. Truman.

OCTOBER 12, 1810: The original Oktoberfest took place in

Munich. Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese von SachsenHildburghausen were married amid great festivities.

THIS YEAR the 200th Anniversary Oktoberfest Jubilee expects over 6 million visitors during the 16-day event.

DR PEPPER celebrates its 125th anniversary. In 1885, a drug store

Bengal coast killing about 4000 people. The next day, a hurricane struck Pakistan with a death toll of about 6,000.

OCTOBER 22,1965: President Lyndon Johnson signed the Highway

Beautification Act. The act called for control of highway advertising, screening of junkyards, and expanding highway landscaping.

POET OGDEN NASH wrote, “I think that I shall never see, a

billboard lovely as a tree. Indeed, unless the billboards fall I’ll never see a tree at all.”

LOTTERY IS 25 YEARS: The first California Lottery tickets sold

pharmacist created the soft drink for a Waco, Texas, soda fountain.

on Oct. 3, 1985. The game, approved by voters in 1984, started with Scratchers scratch-off tickets.

AVERY marks 75 years in the label trade. In 1935 Stan Avery

HOMER SIMPSON said, “If you really want something in this life

created the first self-adhesive label. His work grew from a loft above a Los Angeles flower shop into a global company with sales at $6 billion a year.

WHITE CANE Safety Day is Oct. 15. The white cane is a tool for a

you have to work for it. Now quiet, they’re about to announce the lottery numbers.”

HALLOWEEN candy shoppers spend over $2 billion buying 600

blind individual and alerts others that the cane user is blind.

million pounds of candy. Our neighbor offers snack apples and tangerines. It cuts the repeat tricksters to zero.

BLIND MUSICIAN STEVIE WONDER said, “Just because a man lacks

OCTOBER is Adopt A Shelter Dog Month. Our adopted Sam is a

the use of his eyes doesn’t mean he lacks vision.”

OCTOBER 16 marks National Boss Day, a day chosen by a secretary to honor her working father on his birthday. The event spread as a tribute to all bosses.

Halloween greeter. He carries his stuffed squeaker pumpkin to the door and gets more attention than the candy bowl.

EXPECT COLD NIGHTS and early frost this month. Go for the 3 Cs: comforter, cocoa and cookies.

Let our family take care of your family.

JUST LIKE HOME Rehabilitation Therapy

Medicare, Medical, HMOs

Celebrating 19 Years CARE CENTER O C T O B E R

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Short Term Rehabilitation Long Term Care

805.922.6657 830 East Chapel St. Santa Maria www.countryoakscarecenter.com

Gives a BIG thank you to the community for making our 8th Annual Hospice “Pardners” Hoedown at the Dairy Barn on the Hearst Ranch such a success!

A special thank you to the following sponsors, donors and volunteers: HOEDOWN SPONSORS • IN-KIND

SILENT AUCTION SPONSORS

Hearst Corporation Steve Hearst Rotary Club of Nipomo Spencer’s Fresh Market F.McLintocks Babe Farms Firestone Walker Brewing Company Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Food-4-Less, San Luis Obispo Cattaneo Brothers La Bella Olives Trader Joe’s – Arroyo Grande Crystal Springs Water Skyline Flower Growers Servpro Monte Mills & The Lucky Horseshoe Band Bill Gaines Audio Hearst Castle Buttonwood Farm Winery Fratelli Perata Winery Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards Meridian Vineyards Rotta Winery Vina Robles Winery Wild Horse Winery First Transit of San Simeon Taylor Rental Harvey’s Honey Huts Scott O’Brien Fire & Safety Co. Mission Country Disposal Costume Capers Home Depot Spectrum Color Images Mark Wilson – Ignition 36 Arianne Kolar Michaele Smith Miller Event Security The Photobooth Experience SLO County Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Patrol (Bud Goff & Glen Baker) KCOY 12 FOX 11 Burdine Printing Journal Plus Magazine New Times

Air San Luis Cal Poly Performing Arts Center Dottie Wilson Kim & Georgia Hubbs Le Crème Jewelry Linda Booker Madelyn’s Apparel Madonna Inn Resort & Spa Nita Stolesen Sculpterra Winery Steve & Janet Jeffery Tobin James Cellars Tolosa Winery Almond Country Quilters Guild Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa Dr. Phil Show Edna Valley Vineyard Hands Gallery Harmony Cellars Winery J. Lohr Vineyards & Wine Justin Vineyards & Winery Lynn & Janice Hayes Mac & Bonnie Brinton Robert Hall Winery Sylvester Winery The Doctors Show Victor Hugo Winery Zenaida Cellars

ROAD SIGN SPONSORS Ultra Stereo Labs, Inc. Pacific Eye Integrity Systems Hearing Solutions Cliff Branch & Jim Smith Coast National Bank Brezden Pest Control Onnie’s Attic Alpha Fire Corporations Hall, Hieatt & Connely San Luis Trust Bank Carmel & Naccasha LLP Schimandle and Cantrell Katheryn McFarland, DDS Maaco Collision Repair and Auto Painting Wheeler-Smith Mortuary

DOOR PRIZE SPONSORS DePalo & Sons Avila Valley Barn Crushed Grape Wine & Gifts Hands Gallery Napa Valley Wine Train Panera Bread – Santa Maria Rob & Peaches Olson Tom & Cathy Sherman Powell’s Sweet Shoppe Sweet Earth Chocolates Virg’s Landing Kim & Co. Salon and Day Spa

RAFFLE PRIZE SPONSORS Kimpton Group Browder Painting Company Farm Supply Gus’s Grocery Spirit of San Luis Restaurant Upper Crust Trattoria Apple Farm Restaurant Chili’s Muzio’s Grocery & Deli Hofbrau Der Albatross Otter Rock Café Great American Fish Company Giovanni’s Fish Market

GOLD PARDNERS BlackHorse Espresso & Bakery The DocuTeam Tom & Pamela Brown Rotary Club of Nipomo

Tim & Delphine Paulsen - The Luke Blossom Foundation Angela Louise Godsave & Ken Brokaw - Keller Williams Sue & Hale Conklin

SILVER PARDNERS Marilyn Darnell Jim and Kristi Jenkins Charles W. Miller San Luis Trust Bank Natalia Thompson Phyllis Tiegs

BRONZE PARDNERS James Bates Keith & Kathleen Belmont Patricia Boyd Brad’s Restaurant Stephen Brown Lilly Brumbaugh Eric Chesterman Don & Elaine Coats Kathy Collins Jim & Barbara Davis Janet Dawe Evelyn Delmartini DiFronzo Kids LLC Ruth Donati Donald & Marguerite Erickson Fred & Bonita Ferrarini Carolee Fisher Kathleen Fisher Patrick & Joan Fitzgerald Rosie & William Fitzpatrick Michael Foran Barbara Fullerton Billie Jean Goodrich Karin Groteluschen Ann & Steve Hansen John Hennessy Warren & Joan Hockenbary Valerie Hopkins Idler’s Appliances Phil & Carrie Johnson Carolyn Kennedy Michael & Susanne Krout Ethel Lenz Doug Lester Joan Lorenzo-Sullivan Harry Luis Wes Mattocks Mary McCready M.A. McDonald Tim & Cathy McKenna Juanita McMullen Patricia McNamara Ed & Evelyn Page James Radcliffe George & Jean Raymond Harry Roden Marilyn Stickler Sam & Sherri Stoddard C.M. Sutherland

Mary Webster

SPECIAL THANKS Steve Hearst Cliff Garrison Courtney Brockman Warner Silver Streaks Volunteers

VOLUNTEER HOEDOWN COMMMITTEE Linda Booker Margi Braden Lynn Garrison Peaches Olson Cindy Osgood Sue Schimandle Mary Steel Ronda Willey Mark Wilson

HOEDOWN VOLUNTEERS Claire Aagaard Vicki Dooley Susan Ellenbogen Donna Epperson Barbara Evanish Andee Garcia Dan Greer Fletcher Hartshorn Miriam Hetsler Steve Jeffery Angela Leornas Leon Leornas Sandra McGregor Bobbi Merris Jackie Moore Nancy Poe Chrystina Pope Tim Prendeville Betty Scattini Joey Smith Megan Snyder John Steel Chalys Stephens Peter Stephens Mary Thielscher Robert Thielscher Dianne Thompson Kathy Wells Abbie Woodward

intRoducing

ER Watch Real time information on Emergency Room wait time.

HOURS

MINUTES

Before you head to the Sierra Vista Emergency Room with a problem that needs attention but isn’t life threatening, log on to our website and get real time information on how quickly you can see a doctor.

www.SierraVistaRegional.com

Quality. Service. Innovation.

1010 Murray Avenue, San Luis obispo For physician referral, call (800) 483-6387 SierraVistaRegional.com | twitter.com/SierraVistaRMc