May 2012 Journal Plus Magazine

RON Y UK EL SON | ROBY N ME T CHIK | K RIS TI M A RINEL LY | VOCA L A R T S

Journal PLUS MAY 2012

MAGAZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST

ROBBIE AND PATTI ROBBINS

Twila Arritt

Broker-Associate

Serving the entire SLO County since 1978

805-543-2172 www.farrellsmyth.com

www.RhodesRancho.com

Cindy Newton

Pamela Bliss

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

Rhodes R ancho, 2.77 Acres with development potential in San Luis Obispo. Anyone interested in this property should speak to the city planning and utility departments.

Price is based on appraisal. $845,000 Country Living at its Finest!

Superb Property! A definite must see! Main home approx. 1105sqft, 2Bed/2Ba home with an approx.

540sqft 1Bed/1Ba detached unit in back. Both have been well cared for. Located on a cul-de-sac in a convenient neighborhood, walking distance to Splash Cafe. $529,000

REALTOR®

Great Paso Robles 4Bedroom, 2.5 Bath plus den/ office, located at end of road. 500sqft covered patio with amazing hillside views. Enjoy wide open spaces on this 1 acre parcel includes 2 car garage and large tool shed. $379,000 Fantastic SLO Location!

Peach Street Location. Great potential for investment/income or make it your dream bungalow. It’s an R-2 zoned lot. Two bed room, one bath. Sold in as is condition. Price Reduced! $339,000

Kelly Hannula REALTOR®

REALTOR®

Larry D. Smyth

Jennifer Hamilton

REALTOR®

Janet Shaner

www.3290Rockview1.com

Owner/Broker

Relocation Director

Stephanie Hamilton

REALTOR®

Mary Rosenthal

REALTOR®

Vicky Hall

Laura Rizzoli

www.1156PeachStreet.com

Patricia Garrison

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

www.667Howard.com

Broker-Associate

Theresa Carroll

Annette Mullen

Sunny, energy efficient, quiet upstairs flat. Gorgeous views of Bishop’s Peak from the SW deck. Close to Cal Poly, shopping, & hiking. Open, airy floor plan with attached one car garage. All units must be owner occupied. $289,000

Ridge Point Unit. Kitchen and Living room on top level. Bedrooms and Laundry on Lower Level.

Private decks on each level. Upper level end unit. $259,000

Conveniently located in the heart of SLO & the Village of Arroyo Grande 21 Santa Rosa Street, Suite 100, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 102 E. Branch Street, Suites C & D, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Chris Stanley REALTOR®

Christine Williams REALTOR®

CONTENTS

28 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

VOCAL ARTS ENSEMBLE

PHONE 805.546.0609 E-MAIL slojournal@fix.net WEBSITE www.slojournal.com

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

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ROBYN METCHIK

KRISTI MARINELLY

ADVERTISING Jan Owens CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Stewart, Natasha Dalton, Joseph Carotenuti, Dr. Julian Crocker, Sarah Hedger, Maggie Cox, Deborah Cash, Jeanne Harris, Sharen Rund Bloechl, Ron Cogan, Dr. Donald Smilovitz, Richard Potts, Dale Wolff, Andrew Carter, 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.

PEOPLE 8 10 12 14 16

RON YUKELSON MARIA DIETS-STOVER ROBYN METCHIK DR. CARL JOHNSON KRISTI MARINELLY

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.

HOME & OUTDOOR

Opinions expressed in the byline articles are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE.

HEALTH: DR. DONALD SMILOVITZ

Cover photo by Tom Meinhold

18 20 22 23 24 26

CC ROLLER DERBY DALLIDET ADOBE/SLO HISTORY CENTER HOME DESIGN DISTRICT FOOD / AT THE MARKET

COMMUNITY 28 30 31 32 34 36 46

VOCAL ARTS ENSEMBLE DOG NEXT DOOR OUR SCHOOLS – Dr. Julian Crocker HISTORY: History in City Hall HOSPICE CORNER / CROSSWORD PUZZLE PALM STREET – SLO Councilman, Carter ALMANAC – The Month of May

BUSINESS

37 DOWNTOWN SLO What’s Happening 42 THE BULLETIN BOARD 45 EYE ON BUSINESS

SLO ART SCENE

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A proud tradition of serving our community for over 26 years

SAN LUIS OBISPO – It’s like living in a really

nice tree-house. An architecturally pleasing home in Monterey Heights. Great location close to both downtown San Luis and Cal Poly University. Three bedrooms with three baths.

Recently updated with bamboo flooring, carpet & paint. Great decks for entertaining with plenty of sunshine. Views of San Luis Mountain. #2979 $585,000

SAN LUIS OBISPO – Location! This Ferrini Heights home is situated on a large lot.

Hardwood floors are throughout with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, great room, and living room with fireplace. There are several sliding doors that lead to a beautifully landscaped backyard. Remodel plans are available. #2941 $689,000

SAN LUIS OBISPO – Remodeled creekside

Enjoy Panoramic Views

This spectacular ocean view estate is located in the gated Bluffs neighborhood in Shell Beach.

The magnificent wrought iron and glass front entrance opens to the incredible view, enjoyed by nearly every room. The well-designed floor plan features a formal living and dining room as well as a family room on the entry level, private master suite upstairs and the additional two bedrooms and office on the lower level.

The gourmet kitchen is complete with a large center island and granite counters. Shell Beach is certainly one of the great treasures of our Central Coast, close to golfing, wine-tasting, hiking and surfing. #2932 $3,997,500

home located just blocks from downtown San Luis Obispo. This 4 bedroom home includes Mahogany doors and trim throughout, hardwood and bamboo flooring, new stainless steel appliances, vaulted ceilings and custom cabinetry. Picture windows, decks and side patio allow you to relax and enjoy the creekside ambiance. #2974 $749,000

ATASCASDERO – Lounge poolside at The Colony at Apple Valley! This spacious 2,280 sq ft home features 3 beds and 2 baths with the ability to have a fourth bedroom. An in-ground pool and back patio are perfect for entertaining all of your guests. The attached 3 car garage is perfect for storing all of your fun toys and the best part....NO HOA! #2930 $405,000

Exclusive San Luis Drive Neighborhood!

SAN LUIS OBISPO – Stunning Spanish Style home on 7 acres featuring an approx 3,250 square foot 4 bed main residence and separate guest house. This privately gated property is located in highly desirable Corbett Highlands with fabulous views of the Edna Valley and beyond. Open beam vaulted ceilings, skylights, and custom finishes throughout. Lush lawn areas, view decks, 50 established olive trees and built-in BBQ area. #2939 $1,499,000

Single level, beautifully maintained three bedroom, three bathroom home in a desirable cul-de-sac location. You will love the open and sunny interior with hardwood floors throughout. The gourmet kitchen, with its marble and limestone countertops and wet bar, is a chef’s delight. Enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and peaks. The professional landscaping features a stunning terraced front yard with two heritage olive trees. The back yard with a travertine patio is a private and peaceful place to enjoy the special micro-climate for which this area is known. #2980 $999,000

SAN LUIS OBISPO – An immaculate example

of an early craftsman-style home located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo’s historic district. The home, named the Crossett House, has three bedrooms, plus an office, and two bathrooms. Built in 1916, it is part of the Mills Act and currently has a transferable tax base of $1755 per year. The home is a perfect melding of modern amenities and original style, and a must see for anyone looking for unique charm. #2978 $899,000

For more information on these and other Real Estate Group of SLO listings call us at

805.541.2888

962 Mill Street • San Luis Obispo, California 93401 • www.RealEstateGroup.com

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

From the publisher

L

ast year while attending Jack’s Helping Hand’s annual fundraiser at the Santa Margarita Ranch, Jan and I purchased a basket filled with Olive Oils and a beautiful painting. Upon opening the basket we discovered that the oils and the painting were from the husband and wife team, Patti and Robbie Robbins. When our Art Scene columnist, Gordon Fuglie, asked us to do a profile on the duo, we were more than happy to get to know them better. You’ll enjoy his story inside.

“No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.”

– Hal Borland Don’t skip your spring cleaning, give us a call today!

ph 805.541.5800 ryanrossdds.com 567 Marsh Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 New patients welcome!

New additional hygiene hours now available

We also profile five individuals that give back to our community, including Ron Yukelson. Ron deals directly with us, marketing Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center.

Susan Stewart caught up with him this month and we got to know him better. You’ll be surprised to learn how many other organizations he is associated with.

Finally, we are beginning a new column that will run periodically titled, Heathy Living. Our first columnist is Dr. Don Smilovitz. He writes about the most important things in life—Beauty, Camaraderie and Spirituality— and how this has helped keep him healthy over the years.

Enjoy the magazine,

Steve Owens

We’ve gone green.

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, May 5, 8 pm SLO Symphony Season Finale SLO Symphony

Sunday, May 6, 3 pm Catalyst Quartet Cal Poly Arts

Friday, May 18, 8 pm CP Early Music Ensemble: Treasures of Tudor England

Wednesday, May 23, 7 pm Morro Bay High School Choir

Saturday, May 19, 7 pm Street Heat Presents Epidemic

Saturday, May 26, 8 pm Cal Poly Symphony and Choirs Rule Britannia

CP Music Department

Street Heat Dance Company

May 10-12 & 17-19, 8 pm The Hour We Knew Nothing of Each Other

Saturday, May 19, 8 pm Cal Poly Jazz Night Concert

Saturday, May 12, 7 pm Cuesta Master Chorale: Bach’s St. Matthew Passion

Sunday, May 20, 3 pm Forbes Pipe Organ Recital: Paul Woodring

CP Theatre & Dance

Cuesta Master Chorale

Sunday, May 13, 3 pm SLO Youth Symphony: Season Finale SLO Symphony

805.SLO.ARTS Phone | 805.756.2787 Fax | 805.756.6088

WWW.PACSLO.ORG

CP Music Department

Cal Poly Arts

Tuesday, May 22, 7 pm Morro Bay High School Choir

Morro Bay High School

Morro Bay High School

CP Music Department

May 29 & 31, 8 pm RSVP XVII: Garabatos

CP Music Department

Thursday, May 31, 8 pm Saturday, June 2, 2 & 8 pm Inside Out Variable Velocity Performance Group

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PEOPLE

life lessons from sierra vista’s...

ron yukelson

By Susan Stewart

S

ometimes, the things we did right in the past come back to haunt us—in a good way. Such was the case for Ron Yukelson, whose early career as a young sports writer 28 years ago recently earned him a place in the Athletic Hall of Fame at Cal State Northridge. The honor was announced in February of this year, mere weeks before another landmark achievement: In March of this year, Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center (where Yukelson is Associate Administrator, Business Development) was designated as a Level III Trauma Center, the first of its kind in our county. How did one guy go from covering 19-year-old Magic Johnson’s first year for the Lakers, to holding a key position at the county’s largest hospital?

According to Yukelson, the answer is simple: By paying more attention to who you are, than to what you are.

Born in Culver City and raised in West Los Angeles, Yukelson earned his B.A. in Journalism from San Diego State, and later, his MBA from the University of La Verne. His first jobs were in sports writing for such papers at the Madera Daily Tribune and The Desert Sun. Highlights of those years include covering the major league All-Star game at Dodger Stadium in 1980; serving as the venue press chief for boxing during the 1984 Summer Olympics; and watching a quiet skinny kid with a great smile and even greater speed (Earvin “Magic” Johnson) lead the L.A. Lakers to the NBA Championship during his rookie year. Yukelson was not yet out of his 20s, when he became the Sports Information Director for Cal State Northridge.

In 1985, Yukelson shifted his focus from sports writing to public relations, parlaying his early experiences and a new MBA into what would become a quarter century of senior level hospital and health care management. Along the way, he married, had children, and put into practice three valuable lessons: “From my mother, I learned that it’s more important to have common sense than book sense,” he said. “From my sister I learned that we should follow our hearts … and from my wife Paula, I learned it’s far more important to know who you are than what you are.”

These are the principles that guide Yukelson’s days as he moves among his many roles in a community he has come to cherish. In addition to his

job at Sierra Vista, he serves the county in a number of volunteer roles.

As a founding board member of the Anti-Defamation League of SLO County, Ron currently serves on two of the League’s committees. At the SLO Chamber of Commerce, he serves as chair of the Ambassador Committee. For the SLO County Community Foundation, he serves on the Marketing and Visibility Committee. And he also serves on the marketing committee for SLO County’s YMCA. As if that weren’t enough, Yukelson was recently sworn in to SLO City’s Promotion and Coordinating Committee (PCC). He completed stints on the Chamber Board, YMCA Board and the Board of Leadership San Luis Obispo last year.

Having lived most of his adult life in Santa Monica, Yukelson said the move to this county was life-changing. “I’m now a seven-year resident here,” he explained, “and every day I wake up here is a great day. I have embraced this community … and I have never felt as fulfilled.”

In his role at the hospital, Yukelson is proud of the recent changes he has helped to foster as a part of Sierra Vista’s senior management team, including a three-phase campus expansion project that began implementation four years ago. Phase One was completed two years ago—the new parking garage, with a heli-stop (coming in late summer) on its roof for emergency transport that will support such things as the neonatal intensive care unit, trauma, and potentially, natural disasters. Phase Two was the completion of a new Medical Office Building, now almost fully occupied. Phase III is the modernization of the interior, including the addition of state-of-the-art technological advances such as the Da Vinci Surgery robot, a new intensive care unit, the expansion of emergency room services, and potentially the addition of new private rooms.

But he is equally proud of the four children (he and Paula each have two children from previous marriages), and the two grandchildren

Ron and Paula in Boston M A Y

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“That helped me to see what’s really important … to appreciate each and every day of life,” he said.

When asked what his response was to his recent induction to Cal State Northridge’s Athletic Hall of Fame, Yukelson was flattered. “I am just amazed,” he said, “to think that something I did 28 years ago touched someone’s life.” And that’s how it goes. Whether he’s running a hospital, accepting a sports writing award, volunteering for his community, or playing with his grandchildren, Yukelson knows that what we do right today will be remembered tomorrow.

Yukelson with SVRMC CEO, Candy Markwith

“Personally?” he said. “I’d rather be thought of as a good husband, father, and friend … for the open, honest, transparent way in which I conduct my life … than as a hospital administrator who does his job well.”

they spend time with (there is a third one on the way). Ron’s daughters are Melissa, 27, a student at DePaul University in Chicago; and Jeanna, 26, who lives in Denver and recently finished up a Masters in Environmental Management. Paula’s daughter Nicole, 32, lives locally and manages a popular downtown pub. Her son Graham, 28, lives in Grover Beach, and is a department manager for a local car dealership.

Yukelson with the Cal State Northridge Mascot when he was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame this year.

Yukelson credits his many mentors, including Sierra Vista’s CEO, Candy Markwith, for his ability to prioritize and find balance in his busy life. But one life-changing event affected him more than any other. In 1997, his mother had open heart surgery and immediately afterwards, slipped into a coma. For 32 days, Yukelson sat by her bedside wishing he just had one more day with her so he could tell her the many things he’d always wanted to say … but hadn’t. Ron got his wish. His mother came out of the coma and lived another three years!

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PEOPLE

Maria and husband, Jerry

dedicated Teacher:

maria diets-stover

By Natasha Dalton

A

tascadero State Hospital (ASH) is a highsecurity institution for mentally-ill inmates from the correctional system and other violent offenders, and the typical public attitude towards its population is that of fear and disdain. Many of ASH’s neighbors and employees worry about their safety, and recent reports of violence only reinforce these feelings. But Maria Diets-Stover, who teaches at ASH, knows another side of it.

Granted, the school is away from the hospital residential quarters, and the patients have to be on their best behavior to be allowed to take classes. School attendance is encouraged but isn’t required, so those who show up are there because they want to be.

Maria maintains that most of her students are people with serious mental illnesses worthy of our compassion. “I see them as individuals who’re trying to improve their lives,” she says. “I remember a young man from the Bay area. He told me that his family visited him all the time. They cared about him; they were desperate for help. And the school was a part of this patient’s journey towards mental health.”

Do you wonder what it takes to be a teacher in a mental institution?

Or how one chooses such a career? Or whether it can be fulfilling? I asked Maria all these questions, and here’s what she told me.

Maria, tell us a little bit about your family.

I was born in the Netherlands. I’m the middle daughter of a Dutch mother and an Indonesian father. My father missed the lush vegetation and warm climate in Indonesia, and the family eventually moved… to California.

It wasn’t an easy decision for my parents: My father had a good state job, and my two sisters and I were doted on by loving grandparents and lots of aunts and uncles. But Holland was poor and still rebuilding after WW II, while America was the land of opportunity—and my father had a recurring dream of living in a place surrounded by orange trees.

We arrived in March of 1956. Our first home was a farmhouse in the middle of an orange orchard in a small town in Ventura County. I was an independent five-year-old, happy about the new world to explore.

That summer, I played in the hot outdoors with neighborhood children under a large oak tree and learned enough English to manage first grade.

My father supported the family with odd jobs, including catering Indonesian dishes to parties. In the evenings, he and a neighbor (another Dutchman) attended Business College. Dad’s efforts were noticed. Within a year and a half of arriving in the US, one of his employers loaned him money for the down payment to buy a house for $11,000. My parents still live there.... enjoying the sun and oranges.

How about you? Have you always worked as a teacher?

I had several non-teaching jobs—such as waitressing and social work —and these jobs prepared me for what I do now. I tutored kindergartners and first-graders in reading in my son’s class 31 years ago. His teacher mentored me, and encouraged me to go back to college. Five years later, I was hired to teach a fifth/sixth grade combination class of 34 students. That experience was tough, a rude awakening. The class included students with attention deficit disorders, emotional problems and a variety of learning disabilities. Some kids spoke limited English. Two students had been juvenile offenders with police M A Y

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records. Managing this crowd and creating an environment where everyone benefitted was beyond the scope of my education. (Many teachers have first-year-teaching horror stories to tell!)

When did you move to the Central Coast?

The following year, in 1989. Paso Robles was still small, with lots of open spaces. It reminded me of the place in Southern California where I grew up. Through the church that I attended, and through doing business in downtown, I quickly met a lot of wonderful people.

After moving to the Central Coast, I began teaching in private schools.

I hoped this would be easier. It was. The class sizes were smaller and students came from stable environments with caring parents. However, several of my students had special learning needs that I couldn’t address effectively. This feeling of inadequacy drove me back to college.

Through my husband’s support and encouragement, I earned degrees as a Special Education Teacher and a Reading Specialist.

Did you meet your husband in Paso Robles?

Yes. I met Jerry through a newspaper ad. No, not one of those intended for meeting people! I was a single mom and needed to rent out a room to meet my expenses. I had placed an ad (a very small one, describing my garden) in the Christian Times. Jerry picked up the newspaper at a gas station. It was the time when he had just arrived here from Washington State to begin a new job. He was my roommate for about 6 months. Then he began to fix up my old house. He’s been working on it ever since. It’s easy to fall in love with a handy man!

How did you end up at ASH? While I pursued a degree in Special Education, I happened to run into a former colleague who told me that ASH was hiring. I was in my forties and needed the money and job security. I tried to ignore the fact that I’d be working with dangerous criminals. I need to say that my first weeks in the classroom at ASH weren’t as challenging as my first weeks as a new teacher!

What is teaching at ASH like?

It’s similar to teaching children, but more complex. In addition to learning disabilities, many students struggle with the emotional and cognitive effects of mental illness. A number of individuals have challenges due to brain damage from drugs, alcohol or significant trauma as a result of abuse during childhood. Years of experiencing failure and being labeled as ‘a loser’ also take a toll.

I work in a special section of the facility designated for the school. This environment encourages people who enter our area to do so in the ‘ready-to-learn’ mode. My students can range in age from 18 to 82. Most of them had very difficult childhoods and dropped out of school. One of my students recently commented that life was good for him during high school. He was in a group home with a caring staff, and he was

Going to California

ing with at-risk children. We have good programs in this community, but, unfortunately, there is never enough funding to support them. Incarceration offers people a second chance, but it’s a very expensive second

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chance. This is where we need volunteers and political involvement. Our state and national representatives need to hear that education and services that help our children grow up healthy are important to us.

That’s Maria—a strong woman, a passionate teacher and a mother of two sons, one of whom is our state’s youngest legislator. Meet her, and you’ll walk away impressed by her energy and conviction. She’ll keep doing good things, wherever she is—I’m sure of that.

Maria as a child

making decent grades in school. But he ran away—because he missed his birth family and went to be with them. Since he was ‘on the run,’ he thought he couldn’t re-enroll in school. Now he’s working to pass the GED tests. Teachers at ASH provide students like this with a second chance to complete their education. We also help them experience being stable, responsible adults.

Do you find your job rewarding?

Yes. One of the most enjoyable things at work is teaching cooking and nutrition in our special program intended to help patients prepare to return to the community. The class is only 50 minutes long so it looks like one of those cooking shows on TV where the chefs have to work against the clock. Students have to hustle and work cooperatively to prepare and cook ingredients, eat and then clean-up.

(I usually finish washing the dishes.) In this class we’ve made a variety of recipes, including stir-fries, wraps, fancy pancakes and omelets. Needless to say, it’s a popular class!

Because of the pending State Budget cuts and decisions within the Department of Mental Health, my job may end this year. If it does, or when I retire, I would like to spend time workM A Y

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PEOPLE Robyn with two junior high casts, Paulding and Mesa, for School House Rock, in Nipomo, 2012

robyn metchik

“anything worth doing is worth doing to excess!”

By Susan Stewart

H

aving taught at three schools simultaneously, and with a teaching career that spans three decades and includes such famous former students as Zac Efron, Joanna Jones, and Katie Boeck—Robyn Metchik will retire this June, leaving behind a gaping hole and a legacy that bears her favorite phrase: “Anything worth doing is worth doing to excess.”

Born in Detroit, but raised mostly in Yuma, Arizona, with her four sisters and a brother, Robyn Gordon Metchik cannot remember a time in her life that did not include the performing arts. She and her sisters have been singing together all their lives, and seeing their talent, her parents gave their children all the piano, dance, and voice lessons they could manage. By high school, Robyn had landed such demanding leading roles as Nellie in South Pacific and Maria in The Sound of Music.

Her father, Harold, was a physician (an OB-GYN) who delivered “most of the babies born in Yuma” at the time, and was instrumental in crafting the world’s first heart transplant. “My mother [Margery] raised us while Dad was off saving the world,” Robyn recalls.

She earned her elementary education degree and teaching credential at the University of Arizona, accepting her first teaching job in a tiny farm school in Red Rock. Right from the start, the 23-year-old began engaging her students in more than just the three R’s. Back then, her production of Peter Pan had no sets, just signs that hung from the ceiling saying “Lost Boys” and “Captain Hook’s Boat” for the audience’s benefit.

Robyn met her husband, Paul Metchik (today, a real estate and business attorney in San Luis Obispo), at a restaurant during their college years. Paul was a waiter; Robyn his busgirl. After they married, they spent a year in New York City where Robyn worked as a receptionist by day, and did community theater by night. The couple moved to California in the late 1970s, settled in SLO County, and started a family, interrupting Robyn’s teaching career for the next ten years.

By the mid-‘90s, when her children were in school themselves, Robyn wanted to return to the classroom and was hired at Dana Elementary, Robyn with Zac Efron at the premier of High School Musical

where she quickly became known, not as the soccer mom, but as the “play” mom, doing one major production every year in addition to her regular classroom subjects. It was Ron Walton, then vice-principal at Dana, who encouraged her in this extra-curricular passion that soon became an obsession. Just a few years later, she was asked to produce plays and musicals at other schools as well. The year after that, she was offered a 6th grade teaching position at Mesa Middle School and quickly became Mesa’s Drama teacher as well.

In 2002, Robyn was asked to open the brand new drama department at Nipomo High School, kicking off a decade of stellar achievements for the school, the department, and the talented kids who joined up.

“Robyn can take the most unhip, unpopular kids in school and make them cool; she brings out their best, makes them sparkle,” says longtime friend and assistant Patsy Mitchell. “And she shows no favoritism whatsoever.”

Starting with only 30 students that first year, and only 2 or 3 boys in the bunch, Robyn had to import kids from other high schools to flesh out her casts for those first shows. Today, there are close to 100 kids in drama, with fully half of those being boys. Projects ranged widely from ambitious musicals to serious drama, including The Laramie Project, a controversial piece about the reaction to the 1998 murder of gay college student Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming. A “Wall of Fame” photo collage covers an entire cafeteria wall at Nipomo High, chronicling the many shows, actors, and crews from the past ten years.

With a filmography that now includes High School Musical 1, 2, and 3; 17 Again; Charlie St. Cloud; and New Year’s Eve, actor and heartthrob Zac Efron began his career at Paulding Middle School where he caught

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sets, do PR, make costumes, run lights, you name it … just to be part of the Metchik Magic.”

In fact, Robyn is the first one to admit she couldn’t do what she does alone. She lists Patsy Mitchell (personal assistant and PR); Mary Barrette (costumes and parent coordinator); Dennis Theriot (sets); Eileen Patterson (costumes); Sandra Cortez (photography); Stacy Meko (programs); Eric Guisinger (music editor and show finder); Mark Robertshaw (music director); Suzy Miller (Emmy-winning choreographer); and the Blanchard family (sets and building) among the many people who have given their time to the cause.

And then, of course, there is Robyn’s own family. “Not one of us is a couch potato,” she jokes.

All three of her children are UCLA graduates.

Robyn with senior, Wyatt Mitchell after Best of Song and Dance, in 2011.

Robyn’s eye. “Any project I gave him, he did so well,” Robyn recalls. “He had it!” By his 8th grade year, Robyn told Zac’s parents he was ready for an agent and then helped him get one. She cast him as Snoopy in Nipomo High School’s production of You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, staged at Arroyo Grande’s Clark Center. Soon he was being cast in guest roles on television and eventually became Troy Bolton, the role he reprised twice more in Disney Studios’ High School Musical series.

Two more of Robyn’s students have international fame. Joanna Jones appeared on television’s Sing Off!, catching the attention of everyone who watched her. Today, her amazing range and versatility have won her a leading role in the European touring company of Michael Jackson’s This Is It! Another singer, Katie Boeck, who has studied with Robyn since the third grade, has performed in such shows as Cabaret and Les Miserables. She is currently on tour in India and has released two CDs. Equally proud of the student performers she has taken overseas, Robyn has put Nipomo High School on the world map, taking first place awards at such events as the Disney World competition; winning top marks on cruise performances three years running; becoming the first-ever high school ensemble to perform on the Disney World stage, and being selected one of only 100 high schools out of 3,000 applicants to perform at the famed Edinburgh Fringe Festival last year.

“Robyn even gets the adults into the act,” says Mitchell. “Parents and friends step up to build

Son Aaron, 32, began his career singing with the professional touring company of Les Miserables. Today he lives in L.A. where he teaches acting classes and is a talented writer/ director with three movies to his credit. One of them, Ten Years Later, was shot in Nipomo.

Daughter Ariana, 28, will be married by the time this issue is printed. She met her husband in the Peace Corps where she was stationed in

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Africa doing health education, creating clinics, and teaching literacy skills. She has just been accepted to Harvard Medical School.

Son Asher, 26, earned his Masters in Mechanical Engineering and is currently working for Edwards Life Science in Irvine, California, helping to create a new heart valve replacement. Asher is engaged to marry a Chicago medical school student.

Husband Paul has been supportive of his talented family, said Robyn, “… for all these years, with all the traveling, and of all the kids in their every endeavor.”

On the day she interviewed for this article, Robyn had just handed out the timeline for her last show at Nipomo High, this one titled The Best of the Best: Let the Memories Begin. Suddenly, the finality of this last show hit her, and she broke down in tears in front of 70 students.

What will she do now? “Well,” she joked, “my whole house looks like a garage, so I’ll spend six months putting that in order.” After that, maybe she’ll do a community show, maybe become a guest director. As Robyn would say, anything worth doing is worth doing to excess, and if that’s true, then the Metchik Magic—like the show—must go on.

Partnership for the Children of San Luis Obispo County with

unset S Saturday Jac W. Pedersen II, D.D.S., F.A.C.D.

present the 6th Annual

barbecue June 9th, 5pm

San Luis Obispo Country Club, 255 Country Club Drive, San Luis Obispo

Wine Tasting & Appetizers: Edna Valley Winery, Halter Ranch, Nipa Cellars, St. Hilaire Winery, Tolosa Winery, Wood Winery • No Host “Cash Only” Bar also available Barbecue Dinner prepared by Chef Troy Tolbert Live Music & Dancing featuring “Unfinished Business” - 60’s Rock-n-Roll Band Barefoot Putting Challenge • ‘MAG-nificent Dozen’ Wine Raffle Live Auction & Fund-a-Need Attire: Your best California casual chic; No denim jeans please.

Ticket Donation

$100 per person • $1,000 Premium Table for 8 (Includes wine for the table) Call 805-801-5433 or email ptcinfo@cdtslo.org *Partnership for the Children / La Clinica de Tolosa is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Fed. Tax ID 77-0346861

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Dr. Carl Johnson artist at the microscope

By Ron Cogan

Crazy Dream

S

mall things loom large in the world of Dr. Carl Johnson, a long-time San Luis Obispo anatomic pathologist whose daily focus is on things unseen by the rest of us. No trivial thing, those views of a microscopic world aid physicians and surgeons with diagnoses that help improve the lives of many. It’s important and satisfying work.

It is not, however, the full measure of Dr. Johnson’s forays into this dimension, where the smallest things imaginable can bring awe and a deep appreciation of what nature may present, if only we take notice.

It is here, in his spare and often late-night hours, where the good doc literally sees life as art in a most unique way.

While his vocation is medicine, Dr. Johnson’s passion is crystal photography—images captured under the powerful view of a digital microscopic camera showing the never-ending variations of crystals bathed in polarized light. The results are spectacular.

With his specialized digital microscope camera, the often otherworldly views he sees are captured as extremely high resolution 32 megapixel digital images to be shared with others. He has many hun-

dreds of these images captured over many years, all inspired by a keen interest in science at an early age and the gift of a Gilbert chemistry set when he was 10 and living in Wiesbaden, Germany.

Dr. Johnson recalls he was fascinated by the chemical compounds, their colors, and the chemical reactions produced as he mixed some in aqueous solutions. As fate would have it, a beaker of ferric ammonium sulfate and water was set aside and forgotten for several weeks, only to be rediscovered with a beautiful, inch-long green crystal inside. Curiosity piqued, he referenced a book titled Crystals and Crystal Growing by Holden and Singer, which shared the properties of various classes of crystals and instructed how to grow them at home.

He now had the knowledge. But at such a young age there were few resources to buy the chemicals and supplies needed to grow the larger crystals he wished to create.

That changed six years later during his sophomore year, where a supportive inorganic chemistry instructor at Wiesbaden high school allowed him full access to the chemistry storeroom. With that permission, he now had the supplies needed to grow his crystals. Nirvana!

The world of blue copper sulfate crystals and deep red crystals grown from potassium ferricyanide was opened to him. With guidance from the crystal making book, the future Dr. Johnson would create crystals up to two inches in size, some of which remain with him today. He would win the school science fair with a collection of 30 large crystals of various hues and descriptions along with descriptions of their properties, classifications, and how they grow.

Years later, during his internship in the pathology department at UCLA Medical Center, Dr. Johnson’s fascination with crystals evolved. You would think the all-consuming life of a medical intern would mean such casual interests would be put away. On the contrary, immersion in the specialized world of anatomic pathology—in which the microscope is a primary instrument—only deepened his interest in the nature of crystals and their fascinating permutations in a magnified world.

The great discovery here was the property of birefringence, which he recalled being described by authors Holden and Singer as the tendency for some chemical substances to glow under polarized

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possible by the crystals he grows, their fascinating shapes and colors, and the way in which their physical properties are enhanced through a polarizing filter and captured through a microscopic view. Dr. Johnson describes crystal birefringence and the creation of his images in more technical detail on his website at www.mycrystalscapes.com.

While some images are so unique as to be nearly indescribable, most remind us of things in our everyday world. Dr. Johnson’s descriptive titles bear this out, with images featuring such titles as “Autumn Leaves,” “Sandstone,” and “Seashells,” or more whimsically, “Van Gogh’s Marbles” and “Roads to Nowhere.”

Flame Blossom

light. Again, with ready access to chemicals used by the university’s pathology lab, Dr. Johnson investigated this phenomenon by growing microscopic crystals on glass slides and viewing them through a polarizing microscope. It was like a “big bang,” in small dimension. Mesmerized, he recalls this moment as the birth of the fascinating new hobby that continues to this day.

High-quality microscopic images of his crystals were captured for years on Kodachrome or Ektachrome transparency film, the technology of the era. Now they are created as

very high resolution digital images through his PAXCam ARC+ microscope camera, employing the more advanced technologies of today. Dr. Johnson chose this microscope camera after much research because of its scientific-grade CCD sensor and pixelshifting technology that enables stunning images and adjustable resolutions.

Dr. Johnson’s CrystalScapes are presented in standard and limited edition galleries on his website. Like his crystals, his site is ever-growing and continues to evolve. Here, visitors can view a diversity of images and purchase them in print sizes of 8 ½ x 11 inch, 13 x 19 inch, and 17 x 22 inch sizes at prices ranging from $25 to $300. The rare view they share of a crystalline world is intriguing and thought provoking, deserving of a closer look and perhaps a place of honor on your wall.

You would be forgiven if you assumed his images are computer-generated because, frankly, there’s nothing quite like them outside of the imagination. But they are very much rooted in the natural world, made

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Kristi Marinelly

Kristi Marinelly standing in the same spot that her parents posed on their wedding day.

LIFE IN THE COUNTRY...AND SOME FAMILY HISTORY TO BOOT.

By Deborah Cash

A

hhh. Country living. For some, the Green Acres moment comes while dreaming about peace and quiet, space or fresh eggs: “Honey, we need some property!” And though living in the hills isn’t for everyone, it IS a lifestyle that can provide tremendous satisfaction for those who find it a good fit. Particularly when there’s an opportunity to live in one’s ancestral domicile.

For Native Daughter Kristi Marinelly and her husband Steve, however, it was less of a transition from city to country, and more of an incremental realization that relocating to the hills further out made sense when they assisted with some remodeling on their fourthgeneration family property on Old Creek Road in Cayucos a couple of years ago.

“We’d lived in Morro Bay for 21 years and loved our home,” said Kristi, a graphic designer at The Tribune, talking recently about the rural abode on Jones Ranch with views of Hollister Peak where she and Steve lived when daughter Riata, now 16, was born and where horizontal hatch marks on the wall marked Riata’s growth over the years. “I couldn’t imagine leaving.”

But days spent working on her family’s ranch home—where Kristi’s grandfather was born, her mother was raised and where she herself spent time growing up—ultimately planted a seed. “Why don’t WE just live here?” she asked, and voilà, the family was soon ensconced in the same rooms her predecessors occupied for over a century.

Besides the natural beauty of the pastures, hills and terrain and temperate coastal climate, a magical feeling pervades the numerous historic structures, antique fixtures and photos interspersed among

modernized touches that invite guests to kick back and enjoy the place. Which may be why Swiss miner James Peter Negranti purchased the property in 1892 to dairy farm, raise crops and put down roots for his family.

Though the sign on the gate reads “Mario Negranti,” Kristi is blessed to descend from not one local legendary family, but two. The tale of her lineage is a study in local genealogy. That some of her forebears had to ride horseback over long trails to court and woo is the stuff of local lore documented in historic tomes about area settlers including a 1917 publication, “History of San Luis Obispo County and Environs with Biographical Sketches of Leading Men and Women of the County and Environs Who have been Identified with the Growth and Development of the Section from the Early Days to the Present.”

Kristi’s great-great grandfather Winfield Scott Whitaker and his wife Jane arrived in SLO County in 1863 and purchased land in San Simeon, which, at the time was considered “comparatively desolate.”

Shortly thereafter they moved to Cambria, where Mr. Whitaker erected the first retail building in that town and then became the agent for the Pacific Steamship Co. at the San Simeon wharf, later branching out into the dairy business. Children Ira, Alice and Lottie and their successors continued the dairy and agriculture business.

Alice married William Bordine, their daughter Hulda married Lester Washburn. Son Bill Washburn is Kristi’s father.

James P. Negranti of Switzerland arrived in Sonoma County in 1874 seeking his fortune. Various jobs, mostly in the dairy industry, took him around the state including SLO County. He married Corina de Bernardi on a visit to his home country, then later returned to the area and set up a dairy of his own. In the early 1890s, his wife and children joined James on the ranch on Old Creek Road where the family produced what was considered some of the “finest of California

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Kristi’s Parents, Bill and Lola posing on their wedding day.

The house sits among a number of quaint old outbuildings like these where ranching operations are still under way.

now houses pigs—raised by her cousin who lives nearby—seem as much a part of the charm as the upgrades.

Today, the property encompasses about 500 acres for cattle grazing. A garden boasts asparagus, broccoli, lettuce and berries, along with citrus and other fruit trees. Dogs Levi and Bob stand watch while random cats roam freely in the yard and four horses are corralled nearby.

Country living isn’t for everyone. But if you decide to ‘heed the call,’ know you’re in good company with historic settlers who stuck it out and whose descendants are now glad they did. Give it a try; your grandkids may thank you someday. cheese.” James P. and Corina’s son Mario and his wife Marian (nee Lauritzen) had four children Lola, Iona, Gloria and Robert.

Ultimately, a descendant of a Whitaker, Bill Washburn, won the heart of a Negranti girl, Lola, and they married, living their life in San Luis Obispo where their daughter Kristi and son, Dick, were born and raised.

So, meanwhile, back at the ranch…the biggest challenge? “It’s a lot of work,” said Kristi, who, without missing a beat added, “I love it so much. I come home from work on Friday and sometimes don’t leave again ‘til Monday. I don’t ever plan on moving.”

A tour of the main house reveals a tiny original bathroom that once sufficed for Kristi’s great-grandparents and their six children. The kitchen window overlooks a beautiful vista—Kristi hopes to reframe the window area to showcase the view and give the counter a bit of an update. A wood-burning stove provides the main source of heat for the house and the gathering areas are comfortably arranged in a great-room style with bedrooms branching off a hallway leading to the front door.

Attached to the house is a ‘party room’ with faded decorations of many a fête gone by, an indoor barbeque grill, banquet tables and a trophy deer head—indicators of more than a few good times enjoyed therein and even more formal occasions like Kristi and Steve’s wedding reception in 1990 after a horse and buggy ride from the Catholic Church in Cayucos to the ranch.

The Marinellys are knee-deep in renovations including an additional bathroom, new flooring, insulation, double-paned windows… “It’s a diamond in the rough,” says Kristi, though the old photographs, the Hoosier cabinet and the chicken coop that was her grandmother’s but

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Empowered –

Central Coast Women’s roller derby

By Sharen Rund Bloechl

M

any years ago, while listening to an interview with Sebastian Cabot, I heard the interviewer ask Cabot how he got started in acting. As the story goes, when Cabot applied for an acting job and was asked about his experience, he replied he had none, but was currently making a living as a wrestler. He was hired immediately! In those days, wrestling was staged, as was roller derby—the subject of this article. That was then, and this is now—where all the falls and bumps and bruises are real.

Roller derby was created in 1935 by Leo Seltzer looking to drum up business for the Chicago Coliseum. It’s one of only two sports to be created from scratch by an American. (The other is basketball.) At its zenith in the early 1970s, roller derby played to sold-out crowds at stadiums and arenas across the U.S. After two decades in relative obscurity, the sport has experienced a grassroots revival, mostly among women who grew up in the ‘80s on quad skates. Since 2006, more than 80 leagues have formed or are forming around the country. The Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association (WFTRDA)—www. wftrda.com—is one of the fastest growing sports across the country and, since they don’t use the banked track, it can be played almost anywhere—large buildings, warehouses, etc.

Central Coast Roller Derby (CCRD) was founded in January 2006,

by Heather Coss (Rotten Peaches) and Carey Jones (Senorita Cheeba) who were looking for something fun to be involved in and to blow off some steam! CCRD is a great way to meet like-minded women, give back to your community and get your aggressions out. Like we say, “It’s cheaper than anger management!”

They come from all walks of life: moms, single, married, divorced; working women from medical workers to bankers and more. CCRD is a class 501-C Nonprofit Sport Club dedicated to the empowerment of women of all ages. This club is the first full-contact, rock ‘n’ roll-fueled, all-girl, flat-track roller derby here on the Central Coast.

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“I’ve made some awesome friends,” she says. “It’s like having a second family! If one has a problem or needs to talk to someone, we can call any one of our teammates and they’ll support you!”

Here’s how it’s played: There are two teams of four blockers and one jammer (the only skater to score points) trying to get points—one point for every member she passes—while keeping the opposing team from getting any. Her team helps her via the “whip,” pushing her forward, by blocking and whatever else is necessary and within the rules. Each jam can last up to two minutes or it can be as short as 30 seconds. There are 30 seconds between each jam, and four to seven referees for each game.

Like any formal association, WFTRDA has rules and regulations that each player must know. In fact, each player must pass both a scrimmage and a written test before she can play in the game.

Safety comes first. Players learn how to fall properly; and when hitting, they are not allowed to touch the face or hit the back.

There’s no throwing punches; they have to know what they’re doing. Strategy keeps evolving into more strategy so the game keeps changing and the players continue learning something new.

CCRD recruits twice a year, and nearly half of the new recruits quit. But roller derby is capturing a life-style. Today, almost every city has a roller derby club. CCRD is a league where everyone helps with a variety of functions within the team and with outside events too, such as fundraising. As part of intraleague, there are three teams that play in Paso Robles, Santa Maria, or San Luis Obispo (at Santa Rosa Park). The six top players from the three teams make up a travel team which represents the Western Region where they may play three games in one weekend.

A “fun” aspect of the roller derby sport is that women can choose a nickname, one that lets them be whomever they want. They put on tights, make-up, and socks and become someone new.

Scurvy Pete (blocker) has been a player from the beginning. She read something about joining roller derby and thought “Yeah!” For her, roller derby helps get rid of a lot of stress.

She says, “I’ve met all different kinds of people that I never would have met otherwise. You join roller derby and think ‘I’m going to skate,’ but you do more. There are about 40 of us. Some met their spouses through roller derby. There’s great support from everyone. They’re family.

I can travel around with my skates and get to skate with new people in different countries!”

Scurvy Pete broke her arm during her first practice this year and two years ago, she broke an ankle that now has some big screws in it. She was told she’d have to quit skating, but with therapy, she learned how to walk and she’s back on track. These women have helped each other with accounting, she said, to get jobs, even find new hairstyles.

Practice is three times a week: Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday afternoon at Skatemore in the Paso Robles Event Center. Home games are played next door in the bigger Commercial Building 2. CCRD is always looking to add to our family. You want to skate?

We’ll teach you. We are now welcoming 18 and older for home teams. If you’d like more information on how to get involved, or on how your favorite charity can benefit from Central Coast Roller Derby, feel free to contact us anytime. Email Senorita Cheeba at senoritacheeba@yahoo.com or Melon Brawler at vicepresident@centralcoastrollerderby.com.

Don’t want to skate? We need refs, nonskating officials, volunteers, sponsors, and equipment donations. Since CCRD’s conception, the league has thrown numerous home bouts at the Paso Robles Event Center and has donated more than $20,000 plus countless volunteer hours to local San Luis Obispo County charities such as the DeGroot Home, North County Women’s Shelter, Women’s Legacy Fund, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO, and more.

For more information, a schedule, or to just check out our local roller derby, go to http://centralcoastrollerderby.com/ or our Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/pages/Central-Coast-Roller-Derby/253402910433.

See you at the next home game!

“We have lots of fun with fundraising,” Scurvy Pete added, “We’re not average girls; we’re Paso Aggressive!”

Another member has been a player for one year—Sinnamon Splice, a single mom. Roller derby is something she always wanted to do, and she loves it. When she saw the movie Whip It she thought it was very intriguing and thought, “This is something I can do!”

What she didn’t expect was the bonding with these amazing girls.

Sinnamon says, “Roller derby targets busy moms and girls going to school; and you don’t have to be in great shape to start. Roller derby is a place for all sizes of girls—short, tall, skinny, heavy.”

When Sinnamon first started, she couldn’t go around the skate arena six times without getting exhausted. She never played sports in high school and now skating has not only built up her endurance but has also given her more energy to play with her daughter. Sinnamon plans to keep skating as long as she can.

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750 Price Street, Pismo Beach 773-1922 M A Y

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HOME/OUTDOOR Dr. Smilovitz with Sonia and Homer Rivas

Healthy Living

beauty, camaraderie, and spirituality the most important things in life

By Dr. Donald Smilovitz

F

or me, the most important things to pursue in life are beauty, camaraderie, and spirituality. Over the past 42 years, Homer Rivas, MD and his family have contributed strongly to these goals.

Our relationship began in 1969. From July 1st of that year until June 30, 1970, we devoted 12 months working together in the Indian Hospital in Gallup, New Mexico. We worked long hard hours caring mostly for Navajo Indians and some members of the Hopi, Zuni, Laguna and Acoma tribes. There was great camaraderie among our fellow physicians who had committed to time at the hospital and in its rugged surroundings.

Al Muggia, Chief of Medicine, knew of my interest in Infectious Diseases. This began after I spent three months in the summer of 1963 as a volunteer at a Catholic mission clinic in Nahaula, Guatemala caring for a beautiful village of 10,000 pure blood Mayan

Indians. He appointed me consultant in Infectious Diseases for our portion of the reservation.

In addition to interesting patients at our hospital, twice each month I drove a government car to Window Rock and the second mesa on the Hopi reservation. At each location, one physician, with only an internship year as a background, managed a large clinic population as well as a 10 bed hospital.

Tuberculosis was rampant on the reservation. Pneumococcal infections were also very common. Unusual infections such as plague also showed up unexpectedly, perhaps as a reflection of exposure to the ground squirrels common around the native homes. Mixed in were a large number of patients with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis who sometimes presented with high fevers.

My medical experiences during that year and the associated beauty and spirituality led to several subsequent adventures in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Guatemala as a medical volunteer. It also stimulated a lifetime interest in the study of Pre-Columbian Indian cultures and many visits to archeological sites in the American southwest, Central America, and Peru.

Homer was also a rock climber. Despite my strong fear of heights, he convinced me to join him. Gradually, with great skill and caring, he taught me how to climb up and rappel down irregular stone peaks with the assistance of pitons, carabiners and a hemp rope. Our adventures took us to all parts of the reservation and into the Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque.

Most often, our climbing practices occurred when we crossed highway 66 and the railroad tracks to the barren land north of Gallup.

Fragments from arrowheads littered the surface of that land where an Anasazi village had once stood 800 years ago.

One mile east of town was a 100 foot high wall of volcanic rock with nice handholds. During the warmer times of the year and, often by moonlight, we climbed there two or three times each week. This experience led me to a love of the outdoors which has been a great source of beauty, camaraderie and spirituality over the subsequent years of my life.

Homer and his wife, Sonia, were Catholics. She was very active in the church but he was less involved. Their three-year-old daughter, Yvette, and my two-and-a-half-year-old son, Todd, were good friends.

Religion was rarely a subject of our frequent discussions.

One evening, near the end of our time in the Indian service, Homer told my wife that he and Sonia were “conversos.� In the 1500s, their

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This experience led me to a love of the outdoors which has been a great source of beauty, camaraderie and spirituality over the subsequent years of my life.

Homer Rivas and Dr. Smilovitz at the top of the mountain on the left in 1970

ancestors in Mexico were forced to convert from Judaism to Catholicism at the risk of death. They both recalled their grandmothers singing the old Hebrew songs on Friday evenings, the start of the Jewish Sabbath. Nothing further was mentioned of this as Homer returned to his medical practice in McAllen, Texas and I continued the training that would eventually lead me to San Luis Obispo.

In 1982, Homer called to inform me that their family had converted back to Judaism. An invitation was extended for me to attend the Bat Mitzvah of his younger daughter, Aida. I responded positively and enjoyed a fine service in the small temple in McAllen.

Sonia called me in 1994 to invite me to their daughter Yvette’s wedding to her fiancé Mark. Since I had an orthodox Jewish background with an excellent knowledge of Hebrew, an invitation was also extended for me to conduct the ceremony. This honor was accepted and followed by a meeting with Harry Manhoff, Rabbi at Beth David congregation, to review the prayers and rituals involved. A crowd of 300 family members and friends attended the service. The experience is one of my better spiritual memories.

On February 18, Mark and Yvette’s son, Joshua, celebrated his Bar Mitzvah in Detroit. My participation allowed me to reflect on the many fine experiences that our families shared. Homer and I laughed often as we recalled our exciting medical and outdoor activities of the past and planned new, more gentle adventures. Joshua chanted his Hebrew prayers to perfection. It was a time of great joy.

I would like to thank my readers for allowing me to share some of my passions with you. Hopefully, each of you is successful in gaining your own full measure of beauty, camaraderie, and spirituality in your personal lives.

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It’s time to visit

the Dallidet adobe and the slo history center

By Richard Potts

T

his is my first springtime in California.

The long-awaited, oft prayed-for rain has begun to fall. The mountains are rapidly becoming green, just so that they can spend of the rest of the year slowly turning golden, leaving the oaks silhouetted in avocado against harvest gold—an overpoweringly beautiful natural landscape, made glorious in a 1970s color-scheme.

But for now, the Californian spring is verdant, and it is wonderful.

There just is no better time to be here, and on the Central Coast that statement holds for about eleven and a half months of the year.

The most perfect springtime spot in San Luis Obispo, possibly the most perfect spot in America—the world, even—is undoubtedly the Dallidet Adobe and Gardens. It’s not even very far away. It’s right downtown on Pacific Street. Frankly, I couldn’t care less about gardens in general. I know that there are people who are passionate about gardening, and I can see why; it’s creative, it’s an outdoorsy sort of thing. It appeals to our nurturing instincts; you plant stuff, it grows, hooray. It’s great, and worthwhile, but it’s just not my thing and I can’t get worked up about it. As a result, I don’t always fully appreciate the results of gardeners’ hard work. Selfish and narrow-minded of me, I know. But that’s not to say that when a garden is made into a place of peace and beauty, I can’t enjoy the occasional perfect moment there.

Those perfect moments come more often and last for longer in the gardens of the Dallidet than anywhere I’ve ever been, apart from the tops of mountains and the insides of soccer stadiums.

The Dallidet Adobe is, like most old houses here, named for the family who lived there. In 1853, Pierre Dallidet came to San Luis Obispo. He acquired land and married, and planted the first commercial vineyard in the county. The adobe was home to him, his wife and their seven children. The adobe, built in the 1850s, is unmistakably a family home, where family life is recorded with a level of intimacy we would recognize from our own homes: we can see, for example the differing personalities and different moods of the inhabitants from their bookshelves, where scientific volumes sit alongside both Shakespeare’s works and popular fiction of the time: H. Rider Haggard and Winston Churchill (no, not that one—there was an American novelist of the same name.)

We see the contrast between the scientifically minded daughter Cen, whose artwork decorates the house, and her brother Louis, whose diary tells of him living the country life: working in the vineyard, making wine, picking almonds and beans, enjoying hunting and spending whole days riding and walking all over the countryside between San Luis Obispo and Avila. The garden speaks of family life, too. The redwoods in the garden were planted from seeds collected by Pierre in San Jose, on his way home from visiting his daughter who was studying art in San Francisco. There is a rose tree of an unusual, un-hybridized type whose sinewy beauty lies in it simplicity. Even today, the traffic noise is muffled and the modern world seems far removed.

Perhaps it’s because it’s been a garden for so long. You can feel the years lying on the place. I sometimes wonder if Americans don’t underestimate their undoubted gift for preserving their own heritage. My fellow Brit, the comedian Eddie Izzard, introduced himself during a classic gig in 1998 in front of a San Francisco audience with the line “I’m from M A Y

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Europe. Where the history comes from.” Of course, Izzard was joking, but I frequently encounter this opinion for real—from Americans. Volunteering at our local museum, the History Center of San Luis Obispo County, I am often asked where I’m from because my accent is from the North of England, and not always immediately recognizable. When I tell them I’m English they say, with alarming regularity, something like “Oh, so you know all about history, then!” You know, as if they weren’t standing in a museum, situated in a building more than a century old, in their home town. As a matter of fact, an emerging trend which is even more disturbing is the response “You’re English? Wonderful! I’ve been watching Downton Abbey!” Actually, it’s not so much the revelation that they watch Downton Abbey which is disturbing; it’s a fairly engaging, entertaining TV show. It’s the hungry, desperate look they give me, as if they’re begging me to respond with something like “Oh yeah, that’s our neighbor’s house.” Or “Actually, Maggie Smith’s my aunt.” Or “Did you know it’s actually a reality show?”

What these Downton fans sometimes miss is that the building they are standing in (the History Center’s Carnegie Library Museum) was built eight years before Downton Abbey begins. The stately home where the series is filmed, Highclere Castle in Hampshire, was still a construction site for nearly a quarter of a century after the Dallidet Adobe was built.

The Mission at San Luis was over a century old by that time. The house I live in now, here in San Luis Obispo County, is the oldest building I’ve ever lived in. The United States is not a young country any more, and there is a fantastic amount of grassroots talent for preserving the past here. In the course of volunteering at the History Center I have encountered over thirty local historical societies and museums, from huge facilities drawing visitors from all over the world, such as Hearst Castle and the Missions, to groups of local volunteers who research, document and preserve the history of their own communities.

For the first time this year, the mountains are properly green again.

They will turn gold. The oak trees will be left as bottle-green silhouettes by autumn, with nothing to do but form another ring beneath their bark next winter. This, however, is all yet to come. For we, lucky enough as we are to live here, have the spring. And thanks to the talent and passion for history that exists in this county, at the Dallidet Adobe and elsewhere, we have all the springs which went before this one, too.

The Dallidet Adobe is located on the corner of Toro and Santa Rosa Streets and is open to the public Fridays and Sundays, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., weather permitting. The History Center’s Carnegie Library Museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Admission to both sites is free of charge. For more information please call the History Center on (805) 543-0638 or visit www.historycenterslo.org.

S L O home design district

Tips to Get Your Kids Gardening this Spring

By Statepoint Media

S

pring is here and it’s time to think about your garden again. This year, as you cultivate your thriving plot, think about ways to get your whole family involved in gardening—which makes for a great fresh air activity.

Not only is gardening a terrific way to spend time with your kids, but it also regularly gets them outside and away from their TVs and computers. Here are some tips to get your little couch potatoes growing potatoes instead: Teach Kids are never too young to learn how plants grow and where their food comes from. In fact, growing a garden is an ideal hands-on lesson in life science, ecology and nutrition, and is a lot more fun than simply hitting the books. However, some of the concepts of gardening may be difficult for younger kids to grasp. Fun age-appropriate learning activities and ideas can be found online, at such websites as MiracleGro.com/kids.

literally. Once your plants are ready for harvest, work with your kids to find greattasting recipes they will love, incorporating the foods grown by you. From vegetable pizza to salad to fruit smoothies, the nutritious meals you plan and make together will be extra satisfying when you know the ingredients came from your own backyard.

preciating the beauty of nature. Take a break to sit back, relax and enjoy your garden, as you contemplate what crops and flowers to include the following year.

Enjoy You’ve worked hard pruning, weeding and watering your plants, and now, you have a blooming garden to show for it. Don’t forget to teach your children the importance of ap-

Cultivating your garden and watching it grow need not be a solitary activity this spring. By getting your children involved in the process, you will teach them valuable skills they can use for the rest of their lives.

Grow Giving your kids their very own gardening projects will help motivate them to cultivate their green thumbs.

A gardening set designed with kids in mind is a great way to get them started. For example, Miracle-Gro Kids offers a variety of flower and vegetable gardening sets that provide an optimal environment for growth, and an opportunity to watch plants progress both indoors and outdoors. Be sure to invest in age-appropriate tools for your children to use, so they can dig in the soil and water the plants right alongside you.

Harvest Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor,

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at the market

Carrot muffins with vanilla and honey

By Sarah Hedger

What’s Your Story?

I’ve been writing memoirs and life stories for more than 20 years.

Every life is fascinating.

Every life is inspiring.

It’s all in the telling.

A

round the world May is considered a shoulder month as it has a little bit of spring and a little bit of summer (an autumn/winter combo for the southern hemisphere). Here on the Central Coast, April continues to offer amazing spring produce including strawberries, asparagus, leeks, carrots, (to name a few) as well as the beginning signs of summer produce, being the addition of early plums, apricots, berries, and even a few tomatoes from the warmer spots. It is a wonderful time for anyone who enjoys their fruits and vegetables. And, for those who don’t, this is as good a time as any to taste the freshness offered from farmers directly, or from farmers’ markets. It always amazes me how the taste buds come to life after tasting fresh, seasonal produce.

Susan Stewart

Let me tell your story.

It’s what I love to do.

Please visit www.sayitwrite.us for samples of my work.

Then call me at 805.458.5930.

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While I tend to let the seasons guide which recipe I come up with for each month’s At the Market recipe, this month has a little extra inspiration, coming from the amazing little creatures we know as honey bees. I’ve always had a fascination with honey bees. Some have even referred to me as a bear as I really enjoy my honey quota. Never in excessive amounts, but a little here and there brings me great joy. The addiction started early as my parents had some honey bee hives in the back of my dad’s workshop. We collected our own honey and eating the honeycomb is a very fond childhood memory of mine. Last night, I finally got to watch the documentary Queen of the Sun: What are the Bees Telling Us? I highly recommend this movie to everyone. All too often it seems honey bees, and the important pollination work they do, is overlooked. This movie talks about the global bee crisis taking place, while interviewing scientists, philosophers, and beekeepers. They tell the story in a beneficial, educational way, as it seems of the utmost importance each of us do what we can to promote the health (and survival) of the honey bees. The incredible bees are responsible for pollinating 80% of all crops we depend on for sustenance. Some places have seen a decrease in the honey bee population of over 50%. While some of the movie’s facts are depressing because it shows proof linking the human hand to causing this decline (think Monsanto spraying pesticides on the flowers the bees collect their pollen from and monocultures where

carrot muffins with vanilla and honey

bees can’t survive 11 months out of the year so are imported via truck from thousands of miles away), the more we learn about this, hopefully the more long-term solutions will surface. In the meantime, watch the film, support your local beekeepers, and plant bee loving plants in your yard (they happen to smell wonderful too).

Thus this month’s recipe, Carrot Muffins with Vanilla and Honey, are a delightful healthy treat that pay homage to a variety of delicious ingredients. Full of carrots, pineapple, raisins, ground flax, and just the right amount of honey, these muffins taste naughty and nice in one bite. They are healthy enough to have for breakfast, yet tasty enough to have on an afternoon coffee break. Share them with your friends and please watch Queen of the Sun (www.queenofthesun. com). The bees need us.

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Cremation Care

FOR THE MUFFINS: 2 ¼ cups flour (I used a gluten free mix of 1 ¼ c. rice flour, 2/3 c. tapioca starch,1/3 c. cornstarch) 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 1 tsp. cinnamon ¼ tsp. freshly ground nutmeg 2 T. fresh ground flax seed (these can turn green in baked goods, don’t be alarmed!)

1/3 cup honey 2 T. dark brown sugar 2 eggs 2 T. neutral flavored oil 2 tsp. vanilla (or vanilla bean paste) 2 cups grated organic carrots ¾ cup pineapple w/juice (puree your own fresh pineapple or use canned crushed pineapple) ½ cup raisins FOR THE TOPPING: 3 T. good quality local honey Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a standard 12-tin muffin pan with cupcake liners. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground flax seed.

In a medium size bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until thoroughly blended. Fold in carrots, pineapple juice, and raisins. Add this mixture to dry mixture and mix until thoroughly incorporated, being careful to not over mix as this will cause the muffins to not be as light and delicate. Fill muffin tins ½ full with batter and bake for 15 minutes, checking to make sure they are baking evenly. Test with a toothpick and if it is clean after poking through the middle of a tester, and firm to the touch, remove from oven and let sit in tins for another 15 minutes. Once cool, warm honey and drizzle over tops of muffins.

Enjoy for breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, dinner or dessert...

Makes 9-12 muffins, depending on how big you like your muffins. *Feel free to email me at sarah@seasonalalchemist.com if you have any food-related questions and find this recipe (as well as other versions) at www.seasonalalchemist.com

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HOME/OUTDOOR slo county art scene

TWO KINDS OF ARTIsAN OILS: PATTI AND ROBBIE ROBBINS

By Gordon Fuglie

T

his month’s column marks a departure from previous writing about art and artists in SLO County. In addition to covering a passionate oil painter, Patti Robbins, I cross over to the culinary arts to report on her spouse, Robbie Robbins, an olive grower and producer of award-winning oils and vinegars.

The ethos of the artisan dwells happily in both, co-mingling. Patti’s colorful paintings adorn the labels of all Robbins Family Farms bottled condiments; and Robbie’s olive farming is the occasional subject of her art.

Patti has always made art, “scribbling on my mother’s walls” in her childhood Brooklyn home. Her college degrees, however, (the B.A. and M.A.) are in education. Patti taught school for a number of years.

When she and Robbie moved from Atlanta to San Luis Obispo in 1999, she was motivated to take up painting by the surprise sale of one of her Patti and Robbie Robbins with their Olive Oils and Vinegars that have labels designed and painted by Patti

One of Patti’s Oil Paintings

works at a fundraiser. Since then Patti has been painting in earnest, and whether setting up a still life in her studio, stretching a canvas, or brushing pigments upon a surface, she is daily involved in her art.

Patti’s approach to painting has always been representational, a free and loose depiction of whatever subject entrances her. Secondary to the subject, however, is the opportunity to deploy bright areas of contrasting color. Her earlier works are landscapes, but she came to feel the limited hues found in nature constrained her from using a greater variety of contrasting colors. For Patti, the solution lay in creating her own subject matter and this led her to the still life genre.

Still life is one of the great artifices of visual art. It was practiced to great effect by Dutch painters in the 17th century and has been a staple for artists ever since. In contrast to landscape or narrative scenes from the Classical world, the Bible or great moments in history, still life is a compositional drama on a tabletop. Bottles, pitchers, silver platters, cups and goblets, vases with flowers, fruit—or a whole meal, are arrayed upon a board, creating an optical poetics of domesticity. Some painters used the still life as an allegory for the transitory nature of existence: those drooping flowers in the vase losing their petals remind us of our mortality.

Patti, on the other hand, sees the still life as a vehicle for combining the natural colors of fruit with the bold hues of machine made textiles and the geometric forms of bowls and vitreous vessels. “Pear Branches, Sunflowers and Lemons” arranges the artist’s beloved sunflowers with produce from her garden. The rounded natural forms in their containers are the harmonious elements of the painting, mitigating the lurid diagonal stripes of the tablecloth and the hard gray ironwork backstopping the composition. An overall citrus yellow permeates the work, and combined with the greenery, holds the other hues in tension.

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round at Seaside Gallery, Pismo Beach, and Gallery Los Olivos in Los Olivos (Santa Barbara County); www.gallerylosolivos.com and www. theseasidegallery.com. Her website is www.passionforcolor.com.

Robbie Robbins’ oils and vinegars can be found locally at We Olive stores in SLO County: 1311 Park Street, Paso Robles and 958 Higuera Erin Mott | MPSSan Realty Street , Luis Obispo, as well as The Crushed Grape in the Madon805-234-1946 na Road Shopping Center, SLO. Robbie also sells them on the Robbins erin@mpsrealty.com | Family Farm website. To learn about the renaissance underway in California olive oil, visit www.cooc.com.

MLS #: 185485 A couple more of Patti’s Oil Paintings

$1,190,000 | 2500 Sq. Ft.

1134 Mill St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Come See the Virtual Tour! www.1134Mill.com

The oils that Patti uses to paint her natural greens and yellows resonate with the luminous greenish yellow olive oil produced by her husband Robbie. Prior to moving to San Luis Obispo, Robbie was a surgeon who specialized in head and neck operations. Once he retired, he mused about what to do with the land around their hillside home overlooking Edna Valley. At that time, the California olive oil industry was small, having shrunk due to consumer demand for whole olives instead. With the growing interest in Italian cuisine and the Mediterranean diet, imported olive oil was booming.

A few California olive growers took notice and decided to revive olive oil production.

Fondly recalling their honeymoon in Spain thirty years earlier where he and Patti became acquainted with olive growing and oil milling, Robbie’s curiosity was piqued. To learn more, he attended a weekend seminar in Healdsburg offered by the newly formed California Olive Oil Council (COOC). That was all it took. Fired up and excited about joining a small-scale agricultural revolution, Robbie returned home, joined the California Farm Bureau, and placed around their yard fifty trees descended from the plantings of Fr. Junipero Serra’s Franciscan missionaries two hundred years ago. From these trees came Robbie’s first oils, sold under the Robbins Family Farm label. Using sustainable methods to grow his trees, Robbie says his practice is traditional: “we hand pick our olives using time-honored olive rakes and chest buckets—no machines. The olives are milled within just a few hours of picking to assure the highest quality and freshness.” Following two months of racking, a process that draws off the olive oil from the sediment, the oil is transferred to a sterilized container, after which Robbie tastes and blends his oils produced that year. I also recommend their dense, syrupy balsamic vinegars; in their piquancy they are unlike any other that I have tasted to date.

Between devotion in the studio and tending the land, Patti and Robbie Robbins have made their lives a shared work of art.

Patti Robbins’s paintings can be seen year

rare opportunity to own a beautifully remodeled turn-of-the-century home on Historic Mill Street, just AAblocks rare opportunity to own a beautifully remodeled turn-offrom downtown. This four bedroom, three bath home is situated on a large R2 lot with an expansive sun-filled backyard. The home features a completely remodeled top-of-the-line kitchen, updated the-century on MillHardwood Street, just blocks from bathrooms, a formalhome dining room, andHistoric separate living areas. floors, high ceilings, intricate woodwork, and several period-specific upgrades add character throughout the home. Located blocks from fine dining, movie theatres, Mission Plaza, three this home bath tastefully home combines the of downtown.

Thisshopping, four and bedroom, iscomforts situated modern living with the charm of this historic neighborhood. This is a truly unique property in the heart of SLO. on a large R2 lot with an expansive sun-filled backyard. The home features a completely remodeled top-of-the-line kitchen, updated bathrooms, a formal dining room, and separate living areas. Hardwood floors, high ceilings, intricate woodwork, and several period-specific upgrades add character throughout the home. Located blocks from fine dining, movie theatres, shopping, and Mission Plaza, this home tastefully combines the comforts of modern living with the charm of this historic neighborhood. This is a truly unique property in the heart of SLO. See www.1134Mill.com for more photos. $1,190,000 Equal Housing Opportunity | Information Provided by Seller. Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed.

CA DRE #01448769

Erin Mott Broker/Owner DRE# 01448769 M A Y

ph: 805.234.1946 www.1134Mill.com erin@mpsrealty.com

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music

taking musical journeys with the vocal arts ensemble

By Dale Wolff photos are of past VAE tours

H

ARMONY is a beautiful thing: both the mixture of musical notes in ways that create great sounding chords AND people from different worlds getting together in a positive spirit. Choral groups make BOTH kinds of harmony, with thrilling results, when they embark on international singing tours.

The SLO Vocal Arts Ensemble is getting ready for such a tour, heading for Scandinavia in late June, and local audiences will get to hear their traveling music at three concerts earlier in the month.

Gary Lamprecht, Vocal Arts founder and director, always assembles very special repertoires for tours. First priority is to honor those visited, so this time singers are learning some lovely songs in Swedish and Norwegian. Another hallmark of such programs is to bring positive, unifying messages such as those found in “You Are the New Day.” European audiences (like people here) always seem to love rousing American spirituals, so pieces like “Witness” and “Great Gittin’ Up Morning” will be featured. Lively Caribbean and Filipino tunes will add to the fun. And concerts will be anchored by ethereal sacred music like Vocal Arts’ signature “Sicut Cervus.”

The Ensemble is especially excited about its opportunity to sing the “Ecce Dedi Verba Mea” which received immediate standing ovations when performed by a visiting choir at last year’s International Choral Festival at the P.A.C. Vocal Arts has made touring a regular part of its activities since its inception thirty-five years ago, singing in specially-arranged concerts as well as large music festivals and competitions. This takes a lot of work and personal investment by the travelers, along with local community support, but the payoffs are impressive.

PRE-TOUR CONCERTs The fun begins even before the trip. The excitement of working toward a concert is amplified when preparing for a tour. “Bon Voyage”

concerts seem to inspire extra applause and warm wishes from local audiences. That makes the singers particularly determined to be good ambassadors and to represent the community well.

KEEPING PRIORITIES STRAIGHT The “faraway places” phase starts with a groggy arrival in a distant airport, followed by the effort to see the first city sights through a sleepy haze, and some amazement about the director’s plan to top off the first day with a rehearsal. “The beatings will continue,” he says, “until the morale improves…or at least until you can sing pitch perfect on every piece.” In fact, everybody wants to take the music to that next level, to polish it up to its brightest and create breathtaking moments for the new audiences. So rehearsals continue from city to city, and songs are tried out in roadside churches, halls, and restaurants along the way.

SURPRISING THE PUBLIC In fact, the unplanned “guerilla” concerts and spontaneous bursts of song can create especially memorable moments. Other visitors to churches gather around with closed eyes and uplifted heads to listen to an impromptu “Ave Maria.” At a subway stop, “Ride the Chariot” is revised a bit, becoming, “I’m gonna ride the METRO in the mornin’ Lord,” as other commuters smile, clap, and snap photos.

Boarding little boats in an underground cave, someone starts “Deep River,” and each singer adds a mournful wave as the group floats off to its own musical accompaniment.

CULTURAL EXCHANGE Meeting people through music creates special experiences. On one occasion, a somewhat confused man joins the singing procession into a church for a concert. He stands in front with the ensemble until a member helps him to a seat. There, he applauds each piece by clapping two hymn books together. At another event, a Czech high school choir teaches the klutzy Americans a folk dance, and in turn the kids receive instruction on doing the “chicken dance.” At an outdoor cafe, a street accordion player volunteers to accompany a small group of tour singers, with the minor impediment of playing an entirely different song.

HOSPITALITY The stories collect, and veteran Vocal Artists replay them regularly.

Some of the most touching are about responsiveness and generosity: individuals in audiences, beaming their approval, tears in eyes, refusing to quit clapping; home-stay hosts taking their guests on special extra excursions. If visitors admired anything in one Hungarian woman’s home, she would immediately try to give it to them.

The leaders of one host choir had been studying English for months to be able to converse with the visiting Americans. And on the 4th M A Y

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VOCAL ARTS INTERNATIONAL TOURS 1985: England, Wales, France, Belgium, and Germany 1988: Scotland, England, and Wales 1991: Russia and Poland 1995: Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary 1999: Ireland, England, and Wales 2000: British Columbia 2004: Italy, Slovenia, Austria 2008: Argentina, Uruguay 2010: Quebec, Montreal

of July, they did a surprise rendition of “America the Beautiful” and brought out an American flag-decorated cake for their homesick guests.

BEYOND BOUNDARIES Most moving are the times when diverse choirs at an event come together as one human family. Admittedly, each group wants to be the best, to get the title, “Choir of the World.” But in most festivals there are also times for groups to informally sing back and forth to each other, to cheer for each other, and to find songs in which all can join together. At a castle in Austria on awards night, there were 500 singers of 10 nationalities, arm in arm, swaying and singing “We shall overcome…we shall all join hands…we shall live in peace.” There were many new friends and few dry eyes among the singers that night. In a few minutes of song and embraces, voice was given to a common ideal: valuing each other as people.

Help when you need it.

Where you need it.

ER waiting is optional.

TOUR BENEFITS To sum up, touring can make wonderful things happen. It can facilitate amazing demonstrations of people reaching out to each other. It provides a concentrated opportunity for singers to polish skills and music; to learn about other lands, songs, and musical techniques; to laugh and work as part of an increasingly close group; and to find others in the world who can become friends in the wink of a song. You could say that touring gives a choir the opportunity and the privilege of adding a few notes toward more harmony in the world.

Hold your place in the ER online at Sierra Vista.

Vocal Arts “A Musical Journey” Pre-Tour Concerts Saturday, June 2, 8pm at the SLO Mission Sunday, June 3, 3pm at Cambria Community Presbyterian Church Touring Choir only: Saturday, June 16, 3pm at the San Miguel Mission Tickets: Online at Vocalarts.org or call 805-541-6797

Simply register online for a designated treatment time for non life-threatening emergencies. Fill out a brief form and be seen by a healthcare professional within 15 minutes of your projected treatment time.

www.ERCentralCoast.com M A Y

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dog next door

mr. muggles goes to washington

By Jeanne Harris

T

ina Fey, a feisty, self-assured Brussels griffon, won the Best of Breed competition at the Westminster Dog Show this year. Her grandfather, Mr. Muggles, won the same award in 2006, and he lives right here in San Luis Obispo.

How could a tiny dog from our small town qualify to enter the worldwide acclaimed show? Muggs, as he is affectionately referred to by his humans, Felicia and Jack Cashin, was entered in the prestigious competition at the last moment. The Cashins did not expect him to place, let alone win the coveted Best of Breed honor.

In order to meet the minimum qualifications to compete at Westminster, Muggs had to earn the distinction of champion, by entering and winning points at dog shows all over the country. Throughout 2006, he earned enough accolades and points to be one of the top five Brussels griffons in the United States. As a top-five contender, Muggs received an invitation to compete at the coveted Westminster event.

Even though Felicia and Jack had entered other dogs at Westminster

A Musical Journey T h e V o c a l a rT s e n s e m b l e p r e pa r e s f o r T o u r Gary Lamprecht, Director Join in the excitement and help launch the tour to Norway and Sweden while enjoying a stunning selection of music from around the world.

Saturday, June 2, 2012 – 8 p.m.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa · San Luis Obispo

Sunday, June 3, 2012 – 3 p.m.

Community Presbyterian Church · Cambria

Saturday, June 16, 2012 – 8 p.m.

Mission San Miguel · San Miguel

Tickets: Online at VocalArts.org or call 805-541-6797 M A Y

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Mr. Muggles with judge and handler after Best of Breed win.

in the past, they had not planned to enter Muggs that year. However, shortly before the competition at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Jack had a change of heart. He wanted Muggs to compete. Muggs deserved to go, he lobbied to Felicia. After all, the tiny ten-pound dog with the beautiful head and confident strut had worked hard all year and earned the right to experience Westminster. Muggs loved the show ring. His fiercely handsome face and perfect griffon shape had impressed dog show judges countrywide. He was ready for the big show.

Excitement and anticipation buzzed in Madison Square Garden.

Mr. Muggles arrived that February for the greatest thrill of his four-year-old life. He relished the attention, the fawning, as well as primping and grooming by his handler, Wood Wornall. Before basking in the lights of the show ring, all dogs at Westminster are kept on assigned benches where attendees can pass by and admire them.

Muggs endured this, but his flat face and prominent chin showed his distaste for the zoo-like display. People complimented his beautifully groomed, wiry, red coat. And they smiled at his similarity to the ewok characters from Star Wars, with his large, wide-set eyes and monkeylike facial features. He ignored the passersby and waited in eager anticipation for his time in the show ring.

Mr. Muggles entered the ring, ready for his Westminster debut. He trotted in with confidence and spunk, alongside a group of nineteen other Brussels griffons. During the competition, he cooperated with his handler and obeyed each cue and command. Felicia and Jack watched from the stands, proud of their boy, but holding their breath as all parents do when their children perform. The time passed in slow motion. Then, at the end, when the judge chose Mr. Muggles as the Best in Breed winner, Felicia and Jack looked at each other, astonished. They felt ecstatic that their little guy from San Luis Obispo, a virtual unknown at the prestigious event, had succeeded as Best of Breed top dog.

Six years have passed. These days, ten-year-old Muggs lives a quiet life in San Luis Obispo. He is now blind in one eye, after running into a tree while chasing a flying bird. His winning ribbon and photo hold a prominent position on the Cashins’ wall. He never returned to Westminster. His surprising win was an exhilarating and memorable experience; the Cashins felt no need to attempt a repeat. Mr. Muggles’ days are spent at home with six other Brussels griffons. His granddaughter, Tina Fey, who lives in another town with her handler, will soon retire to San Luis Obispo to be with her grandfather and the Cashins.

This slowed-down champion finds comfort and peace lying on his bed-top perch, snuggled next to Jack, his best friend and advocate.

Perhaps he dreams of his Westminster glory day, or maybe he just wishes he could still chase birds.

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Our Schools:

Annual Education Report for 2012

By Dr. Julian Crocker, County Superintendent of Schools

A

t the end of last month, The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education released our eighth Annual Education Report for the county’s public schools. The purpose of the Annual Report is to give the citizens of our county information concerning: the number and demographics of the 34,300 students attending our public schools; the academic achievement of these students; some of the challenges facing our schools and students; and the financial data for both the revenue and the expenditures of our local schools.

The Report was included as an insert in The Tribune for March 28, 2012 and is available online at the website for the County Office of Education at www.slocoe.org. Here are a few of the highlights of the Report.

Enrollment and Demographics For the first time in ten years, the total student enrollment for the county reflected a slight increase from the previous school year. From 2001 until this year, the county has been in a declining enrollment mode with a loss of over 2500 students during this time. The two factors influencing this decline have been a lower number of births in the county and the high cost of housing for young families. However, this year’s enrollment shows an increase of 200 students.

Our entering kindergarten class is larger than this year’s first grade by 175 students.

Student enrollment is very important for planning and for financial reasons since school districts receive revenue based on the number of students enrolled. We will need to see if this increase continues in subsequent years but at least there has been a break in the ten year decline.

As our total student enrollment has been declining, certain groups of students have shown an increase. The percentage of English language learners has grown from 8% to 15% over the last 10 years and the percentage of students living in poverty (i.e. qualifying for free or reduced priced meals) has also increased from 29% to 43%.

The ethnic composition of our students reflects a 58% white, a 35% Hispanic, a 2% Asian, a 1% African-American and a 4% “other” population. About 12% of our students have some form of disability that qualifies them for the receipt of special education services.

Student Achievement Results (i.e.

“How Are Our Students Doing?”) The

county’s students continue to score well on the state tests measuring academic standards in most subjects with an emphasis on English-language arts and mathematics. The Academic Performance Index (API) is the general measure of school success with the target score being 800 on a scale of 200-1000. The average API score from our county is 809 as compared to the state average of 778. Of our 80 schools in the county, 46 have API scores of over 800 and 6 schools have surpassed the 900 mark. In all grades, our students exceed the state average on the California Standards Tests. In addition to exceeding the state averages, our students have shown consistent improvement over the last five years on these state tests.

As positive as the news is about our average student achievement, there are groups of students who are still scoring lower than desired. The difference between the scores

of English Language Learners and students living in poverty and their peers can be as great as 40%. This “achievement gap” is also a statewide issue and is the highest priority challenge facing our schools. The good news is that we know a core set of strategies that are effective in narrowing the gap and we have some local schools demonstrating success.

Where Does the Money Come From and Where Does It Go? About 60%, or over $200 million, in school district revenue comes from local property taxes. About 22% comes from state sources (income tax, sales tax, etc.); about 9% comes from the federal government and the remainder comes from various local sources such as donations, rental income, interest earnings and a few fees. Almost 90% of a school district’s expenditures are for personnel such as teachers, aides, bus drivers, custodians, clerical staff and administrators. This should come as no surprise since school districts deliver services (i.e. instruction) primarily through people. The monthly payroll for all school districts in the county and Cuesta Community College is about $23.1 million.

I encourage you to read the full Report and I hope you find it helpful to your understanding of our local schools.

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Upper Crust has been serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine in San Luis Obispo for over 22 years.

Mon–Thurs 11am-9pm • Fri–Sat 11am-9:30pm Sunday 11:30am-9pm

Happy Hour: 3–6pm Monday – Friday

11560 Los Osos Valley Road, SLO (805) 542-0400 M A Y

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history

History in city hall

By Joseph A. Carotenuti

F

or aficionados of local government, a satisfying evening begins on most Tuesday evenings with the televised San Luis Obispo City Council meeting.

While City Hall has now turned 60 (completed in 1952), few remember the pride and joy of the dedication. Four years after the sale of the first City Hall and site and 14 years after a debilitating fire, an elated community celebrated the new heart of municipal governance. The square-cornered two-story building exuded an air of permanence.

Anticipating growth, the 10,000 square foot basement was used for storage and a rifle club. Former Mayor Dave Romero, a new staff member at the time, remembers City Council meetings punctuated by gunfire. The club soon moved.

Along with the droll and drama of issues, the Council Chambers provide an informative link between today’s residents and yesterday’s

City Hall Council Chambers back wall.

demons and dreams. In a quiet celebration of history and heritage, interior images expand the sense of place. The present has not forgotten its past.

Here’s the story.

Behind the dais to the left, television viewers see the Crocker Brothers store filled with the necessities for a growing population. To transition from a rural settlement to a progressive community, the City most often evaluated itself by the yardstick of commerce.

Next is an image of the City’s center and Mission (circa 1880) viewed from the corner of Chorro and Monterey Streets. The famous (and to some, infamous) jog in the street will generate considerable civic debate with the construction of the Mission Plaza…but that is truly another story.

To the right is the Commercial Hotel (1894). From mission days, San Luis Obispo was a place to stop on the way north or south. Located across from the County Courthouse, the Fremont Theater occupies the former hotel site.

Unfortunately, sofa citizens miss even more images on the back wall.

From bankers to bars, farriers to fireman, commerce to car racing, the wall is a visual history lesson of the former pueblo.

While legislated as a community of the “sixth class” (under 3000 residents), the Nation’s Bicentennial was also the birth of the City.

By then, the narrow-gauge railroad—a key missing image—con-

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COMMUNITY nected the city with the wharf in Avila and then south toward Santa Barbara. While not yet linked with the nationwide web of trade controlled by the railroads, San Luis Obispo was eager to expand beyond its parochial reach.

By design or accident, the center of the wall features a large picture of the community’s core—its downtown. A business center was much more than shops to stroll by or places to purchase goods or services as captured by the photos of Sinsheimer Brothers or Ah Louis stores or stables. Commerce meant progress—not only as sources of (always) badly needed revenue—but also as a sign of population growth and affluence.

future. Just who were the local volunteers standing before the first City Hall (built in 1878) or posing with a chemical and hose truck? We may wonder how these men could possibly defend the town from a total conflagration. Nonetheless, they knew they were the only hope. The responsibility came without compensation but offered an exquisite reward of saving some structures from ashes.

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ions, transportation, tools, and architecture are a few other attractions for those who look for history inside City Hall.

A new display of City Hall memorabilia is in the building’s rotunda. Rarely seen documents will be displayed in a program on May 8 beginning at 11:30 am in the Council Chambers.

More is learned as details emerge from the selected insights into the community. Fash-

Indeed, the image of the 1894 J. P. Andrews Banking Company building not only commemorated the arrival of the railroad connecting the town to points north and beyond (1894), but was also the site of the first community library. While one requiring membership and dues, a public place dedicated to learning and the refinements of life was another indication that any west that was “wild” was something of the past.

It is no wonder that the only portrait on the wall is of Andrews (also seen inside his bank) as the entrepreneur established a bank with space for the first library but also suffered the loss of an early (and the grandest) hotel ever operating in town. There is a message that those who are willing to invest in the community—to pay homage to progress—are worthy of recognition.

The emerging metropolis was not free from the ills—both natural and societal— endemic with progress. None, however, was as terrifying as captured by an image of the Andrews Hotel fire. Consumed after only eight months from opening, the image highlights the gravest of municipal nightmares. Local histories before and after this image are filled with the horrendous descriptions of fires dancing their purposeful way across a community’s annals, devouring in an unappeasable appetite buildings, homes, people, and, often most lasting, dreams.

More than any other word, “FIRE” casts incalculable dread and terror!

CENTRAL COAST OB | GYN

Defenses were weak but considered a communal responsibility as volunteers pulled wagons and hoses, shuttled buckets of water from creek to chaos in—often futile—attempts to kill the fiery dragon intent on overwhelming both the present and the M A Y

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A Retirement Facility

COMMUNITY Even though the prospect of moving may be in the distant future, you owe it to yourself to learn how you can enjoy Hospice cornercarefree living in your own home for many years to come.

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Journey along the palliative care bridge to hospice

You Don’t Have to Move

By Cynthia Raccio, RN, BSN

life-limiting disease, and Palliative Care services can help avoid crises by helping to keep symptoms under control. Patients are increasingly choosing to continue aggressive treatment, and with this choice, there is a need for added support and planning.

(1) Palliative Care services may include:

Feel Safe and Secure

It’s a fact of life that as we get older, Pristine is fully • Help navigating the healthcare system whobecome may want too to continue with aggressive and insured. alliativesome Care services cantasks day-to-day licensed • Multiple symptom and pain management treatment while receiving additional help be an important resource for those much to handle on our own.

That All of our workers with symptom management. A patient’s care patients who have been recently • Guidance with difficult and complex needs course of any diagnosed with a life limiting mean illness and doesn’t you have tofluctuate move throughout away theare carefully screened treatment choices

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from the comfort of your home. and pass a criminal • Emotional and spiritual supportive counseling.

• Pristine Home Services is aHousekeeping local background check Personal Care Patients who are considering Palliative Care often wonder howpeace these services will affect company that helps San Luis Obispo and drug test, giving you of mind • Yard Maintenance • Handyman their relationship with their current healthCounty residents avoid the high cost when someone from Pristine is working care providers. It is not necessary to give up Servingof moving All oftoSan Luis Obispo County a retirement facility. in your home.your own health care provider in order to •

get palliative care. Within Palliative Care

“She helps me witha bathing and“team” other services, Palliative Care is created Enjoy Affordable Living to provide patient centered care. team personal care. She is so wonderful toThis me.

All of our services can be provided may include palliative care doctors & nurses, She should be cloned! …and the price is social workers, chaplains, pharmacists, daily, weekly, or on an as-needed basis. very reasonable.

She even did my winnutritionists and counselors. This team From housekeeping You to handyman services and plumbing to preparing meals.

There is no task too large or pay for only the services you need San Luis Obispo dows!” R. Watson, works with your physician to provide a welltoo small for Pristineand Homewe Services.

All of our those services can be providedatdaily, weekly, or on an as-needed planned, complete treatment for all your provide services a price basis. You pay for only the services you need and we provide those services at a price you can“They afford. took the time throughout to ask meyour exactly symptoms illness—treatyou can afford. mentThey that takes care of you your present what I wanted. arrived on intime, did condition and anticipates your future needs.

Pristine Home Services made it possible for exactly whatAccording I asked,to and the price was Convenient One-call Service the American Nurses Associaus to stay comfortable and independent reasonable. tion, I would recommend Pristine Palliative Care is recommended for: in our home.

When Mary was diagnosed Our personal care services include to a friend. ” C. Hall, San Luis Obispo with cancer, is no longer a threat, the • Any stage of illness shopping, daily errands, mealwhich preparapeople at Pristine became a very important Used inany conjunction with treatment tion, transportation part andofnon-medical Before you •make decisions that our team. They were trustworthy, • Helps with the transition from curative care. Our housekeeping services keep reliable and always stood by ourcould side. Weaffect your future happiness care to Hospice.

our relationship their staff. your kitchen and thetruly restenjoy of your home withand standard of living, take the time With Palliative Care, patients can continue

-Don and Mary Smith spotless. We even do windows and to read these reports: withtwo their FREE aggressive disease-oriented treatlaundry.

Our yard maintenance crews ment, as ordered by their physician, while Before you make any decisions that could affect your future happiness and standard of living, take “What every senior needs know services. receiving much neededto additional know how to take care of your favorite the time to read these two FREE reports: Thein network of support from the entire Palabout living a retirement facility.” rose bushes and keep the grass neatly liative Care team may even aid the patient “What every senior needs to know about living in a retirement facility.” in continuing with their treatment.

Studies mowed. Our handyman services are “Four critical questions to ask a “Four critical questions to ask a service provider...before you let anyone work in or near your home.” have shown the benefits of and improved provided by specialists in plumbing, service provider . . . before you let quality of life with the use of Palliative Care.

We invite you to call Pristine rightwork, now so that we can sendrepairs you these two FREE reports by mail. electrical painting, and anyone work in or near your home.”

Palliative Care is beneficial not only for the safety rail installation. seriously ill patient, but for their families as Call for rateS We invite you to call Pristine right well. Families can have their needs met and now so thatreceive we can send you these Palliative support from the appropriate Care teamby members two FREE reports mail.as they go through this

Home Services Specialist

difficult process. This care can also make for a

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much smoother transition or “bridge” to elec(805) 543-HOME (4663) tive Hospice services at a later time. It works like a bridge that provides for the movement of Call Today

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the pre-hospice patient, on to full hospice services, without an actual crisis. This new Hospice patient admission results in a tranquil, peaceful, and elected personal choice, and not one made at a time of crisis or when there are no other options and little time left.

COMMUNITY

As our highly educated population ages, the planning of our own personal end of life journey will become increasingly important. No longer will patients be faced with the decision to “treat or not to treat” following a diagnosis of a life-limiting disease. As the public and health care providers become more informed, and learn the importance of Palliative Care services for their families and patients, this transition will become a peaceful and tranquil experience for everyone involved. There are so many advantages to the patient receiving Palliative Care services and then bridging peacefully onto Hospice Services. Each person’s choices and end of life journey should be respected, and all resources should be offered and provided to the patient and their families from the beginning. All treatment options, as well as a referral to Palliative care services, should be initiated in order to assist the individual with the most beneficial and personally detailed plan of care to achieve their own treatment and end of life goals. This can be accomplished through a combination of services that includes Palliative Care services.

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M AY C R O S S W O R D S O L U T I O N S O N P A G E 4 3

For more information on Palliative Care services please call (805) 782-8600.

APA Style Citation (1) tammysmithlvn. (Apr 26, ‘11). Journey along the palliative care bridge to hospice. Retrieved Friday, Mar 09, 2012, from http://allnurses. com/showthread.php?t=557767

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: UNDER THE SEA ACROSS 1. One who pretends to be something he is not 6. Cruise or Hanks, e.g.

9. A tropical South American monkey 13. Far beyond norm 14. Bleat 15. Floor covering 16. Slanted or listed 17. Bow shape 18. Tripod 19. *Pinching crustacean 21. *Underwater flower 23. Make lacework 24. Go cold turkey 25. International Monetary Fund 28. Holier than who?

30. A hand tool for drawing angles, pl.

35. “Yes, ____!”

37. “Layla” singer-songwriter

39. Roman king’s abode 40. A fit of shivering 41. On fishing pole, pl.

43. “Coal Miner’s Daughter” 44. Whatchamacallit 46. Relating to the ear 47. Caricatured 48. *Octopuses 50. On top of 52. Put to the test 53. Duds or threads 55. Wound fluid 57. Ancient wind instrument 61. *Daryl Hannah in “Splash” 65. Archeologist’s find 66. Maiden name indicator 68. _____ Domingo 69. Kiwanis and Elks groups, e.g.

70. Even (poetic) 71. _____ Park, CO 72. Contributions to the poor 73. H1N1, e.g.

74. Crevice stuffers

DOWN 1. Door sign 2. Margarine 3. Back wound?

4. German surrealist Max 5. Knocks on the door, e.g.

6. Ski lift 7. *Rowboat propeller 8. Reverted to China in ‘99 9. Now Thailand 10. In addition 11. Type of eye?

12. ____ of Man 15. Move unsteadily 20. Olden days anesthetic 22. Writing point of pen 24. Eternal sleep 25. Idealized image 26. Ex-Laker Johnson 27. He sold his soul to Mephistopheles 29. Popular dunking cookie 31. A sails-shaped constellation 32. It borders Mediterranean and Red seas M A Y

33. *The Titanic was one of these 34. *Spongebob’s air-breathing friend 36. Office communique 38. Paper holder 42. *A peri_____ lets a submariner see above water 45. Light studies 49. Charged particle 51. Florence Nightingale and the like 54. Thief, Yiddish 56. New show with Debra Messing 57. *Black and white killer?

58. Independent unit of life 59. Obama to Harvard Law School, e.g.

60. Barbequed anatomy 61. Carte du jour 62. Not in favor 63. Individual unit 64. Sleep in a convenient place 67. *It can be electric

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palm street perspective the homeless situation in san luis obispo

By SLO City Councilman, Andrew Carter

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he City of San Luis Obispo has been struggling during the first part of the year with the homeless situation in town. The focus has been on police enforcement of a city ordinance which forbids the use of motor vehicles on city streets as living or sleeping quarters.

The City has been attacked by some for “unfairly harassing” those who are down on their luck. The City has also been served with a lawsuit which claims the ordinance is unconstitutional and is being used to “criminalise” the homeless.

The City firmly believes our ordinance is constitutional. Similar ordinances in other communities have been judged constitutional. My goal in writing this article is to provide back-

ground on why the city ordinance exists and on the criminal behavior the ordinance seeks to address. I also want to write about the pilot program which will soon allow supervised overnight camping at the Prado Day Center.

The program will be operated by CAPSLO, which is the non-profit agency that runs all homeless services in San Luis Obispo.

What’s important to understand is that there are many different types of homeless.

There are those who are victims of the Great Recession and who are desperately trying to get back on their feet. Sadly, many of those include families with young children. There are also those who are homeless by choice, who enjoy a transient lifestyle. There are individuals who suffer from mental illness or

from drug and alcohol addiction. There are sex offenders, parolees, many different types of people.

Unfortunately, some of these individuals engage in criminal activity. That includes public urination and defecation, aggressive panhandling, littering, dumping of RV waste tanks on city streets, public intoxication, illegal use of drugs, trespassing, vandalism, disorderly conduct, assaults, theft, sex offenses, and weapons violations. In 2011, City police and fire received 1600 calls for service involving the homeless. That’s 30 per week, over 4 per day.

It was this backdrop of criminal activity and growing complaints by residents and property owners in impacted areas which forced the City to take action. Unfortunately, criminal activity was directly tied to the use of motor vehicles as living or sleeping quarters. If such activity were happening in your neighborhood, on your street, you would expect the City to take action. No one has a right, whatever their status, to illegally impact those around them.

Now let me talk about the pilot overnight camping program which will take place at the Prado Day Center. The goal of the program, as with all homeless services provided by CAPSLO, is to get people off the street and into a home or apartment. The program will serve five individuals or family units to start.

If successful, the goal of CAPSLO and the City is to expand the program as needed.

CAPSLO receives partial funding from the City, but it also relies on your financial support to carry out its programs.

A key component of the overnight program is case management. Those served must be willing to work with a case manager to solve the underlying problems causing their homelessness. The case manager will work with participants to help them find a job and then a home or apartment. The case manager will link participants with mental health services or addiction services if those are needed. The goal of the program is not to provide free camping on an unlimited basis, but to help get people off the street. Participants must commit to that goal. Unfortunately, not all can or will.

That’s a summary of what’s currently taking place in San Luis Obispo on the homeless issue. In case you’re interested, this topic will be on City Council’s May 1st agenda. We meet at 7:00 in the Council Chambers at City Hall on Palm Street. As always, thank you for your involvement in the life of the city.

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Downtown

Around

The Magazine of Downtown San Luis Obispo

Inside:

W h a t ’s U p New Business News

May 2012

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Pretty, Parking, Panhandling… …A mixed bag in our urban center

By Deborah Cash, CMSM

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retty. SLO, once again, made national news in April when Forbes’ Magazine named it one of the “prettiest” towns in the country. Add that to Oprah’s “Happiest” and other national accolades: Best College Town for Grown Ups, 18 Coolest Towns in the US, City of Joy, 10 Favorite Bicycle Rides in the World, 18 Places to Welcome Spring, Best Places to Live, 20 Towns of the Future…and so on.

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following some of the public discourse mostly having to do with the hours chosen which is more or less a separate issue from why now it’ll cost to park your vehicle on the first/last day of the week, depending on when you think a week starts.

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undays were free for many years because Downtown was a ghost town on that particular day up until about a decade ago.

Deborah Cash, CMSM, “You could shoot a canon down Higuera Street Executive Director and not hit anybody,” an old timer remarked about Sundays Downtown, though I remember it well having lived here since 1974. We’d have brunch at Friar Tuck’s then walk past mostly closed stores and vacant streets to our car. Maybe even some ur fabulousness has proved good fodder for tumbleweeds blew by. But now, Sunday’s just like any magazines and newspaper articles around the other busy day—complete with “parking problems” world, and nearly every one of them mentions— though there’s many a town that’d love for parking to if not focuses on—Downtown SLO as a major be a “problem.” We see it as a blessing, though one attraction of the area, so I’ll take that as evidence that requires some strategy and planning in order to we’re doing something right down here. accommodate all the cars the hordes arrive in. arking. Paying to park on Sundays in Downtown is slated to begin this month. You’ve probably been

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On the Cover: Kids young and old are invited to join in the fun on Thursday, May 31 for Downtown Brown's Birthday Celebration at Thursday Night Farmers’ Market. This year's theme "Under the Sea" will have all Brown's mascot friends, including Smokey Bear, Sparky the Fire Dog and Jamba Juice fruit enjoying a 'beach party' with games, refreshments and hugs from Downtown Brown. The party starts at 6 PM on Chorro Street and the public is welcome to attend this free event. Photo by Deborah Cash.

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or starters, meter income is necessary to pay for future parking structures and to keep the parking fund/system solvent. It’s prudent to maximize the opportunities to do this.

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the newly installed “smart meters” that eliminate the need for a pocketful of change by accepting credit/debit cards. The meter heads, when newly installed, were a bit tall so they’ve been shortened for viewing ease.

s expected, this response generates more grousing than applause. But, get this: Parking meters, hours and rates are a parking management tool, primarily for the purpose of eliminating employee parking in the choicest customer spots and encouraging drivers to park in the most appropriate areas for the duration of their stay. Higher-fee meter spaces ensure that people who want to park, for two hours or less, in the core of Downtown are likely to find a space to do so.

Boring but important, this bit of data lies at the crux of why The 2012-13 Board of Directors and staff meters were installed in the Joey Chavez, Tom Swem, Jenna Hartzell, Ron Meier, Jim mid 1950s to begin with: so Duffy, Therese Cron, Sarah Ragan, Andrea Miller with you, our esteemed Downtown baby Alaina, Tres Feltman, Pierre Rademaker, Dominic guests, have a place to put your Tartaglia, Brent Vanderhoof, Greg Coates, Joe DiFronzo, cars. On a related note, we’re Carl Dudley, Landy Fike, Jeff Olds, Diana Cotta. Photo

by Executive Director Deborah Cash. hearing favorable response to

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anhandling. We continue to struggle on many levels Downtown with homelessness, hunger, transiency, mental illness, despair—though these issues occur city wide, the urban setting seems to magnify and intensify the situation.

It’s a many-faceted, and oftheart wrenching problem with no easy solution but over the past few months, especially as the temperatures have warmed, it’s obvious we need to ‘do something.’ People have been hurt. Our security guards’ logs are longer. Calls for service are up. Employees in businesses feel intimidated.

In addition to participating in the City’s Transient Task Force Continued next page

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Continued from previous page and providing our Private Security Guard Program, the Downtown Association is looking at beefing up efforts to educate Downtown business owners/employees and visitors to the Downtown area about navigating and coping with the reality of the less fortunate in our midst. We ask that workers, shoppers, customers and guests refrain from giving money to panhandlers and give instead to the Prado Day Center or Maxine Lewis Memorial Shelter or any program where your dollars

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will go directly to services. We urge you to report any behavior that is threatening or aggressive and stick around to file a complaint. Be aware of your surroundings and follow your intuition. Efforts are underway by a number of organizations to provide services and programs to those in need. But, in the end, we all need to pitch in to improve matters.

E. Bunny gets mixed reactions during Downtown Bunny Trail on April 5 at the market. Photo by Deborah Cash

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art of living, working or being in a city is appreciating its diversity—warts and all. All things considered, I’d say things are pretty, good…around Downtown.

N e w s Tony Park, the owner and manager of Raku, says he loves being Downtown and that being in San Luis Obispo County is “better for his soul.” He prides his restaurant on being a place where pretty much anyone can come enjoy a good meal and have a good time. Every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 9 PM, there is a deejay and discounts on cocktails and beer. During Downtown Thursday Night Promotions Farmers’ Market, Raku has a booth on the street where casual diners can enjoy some of Raku’s specialties such as the sushi burrito, Godzilla Roll, Crunch Roll and Heaven Roll.

Raku

Tony Park, Owner 857 Higuera Street (805) 544-7258 www.RakuUSA.com The Japanese word “raku” means enjoyment, at ease and fun. Raku is also the name of one of Downtown’s newest restaurants, and according to this definition the restaurant is more than living up to its name.

Raku is a Japanese style bistro that serves one-of-a-kind dishes all with a unique twist. Raku’s menu has a variety of options ranging from high-class sushi to noodle bowls that are perfect for a college student budget. Raku is the only restaurant in the county that has a traditional Japanese Yakitori grill.

Raku is open daily for lunch and dinner.

Park invites you to come in and try the famous “Stairway to Heaven” roll and other exotic dishes.

By Ally Dahl ever had. On December 20, 2011 Stennett opened Teaberry and was an immediate hit among the people in SLO. Stennett says that Teaberry has been so successful because “we are different enough from the other yogurt places Downtown.”

Teaberry Frozen Yogurt Café Tom Stennett, Owner 874 Higuera Street (805) 439 - 0909 www.TeaberrySLO.com

If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth without adding a notch to your belt Teaberry has the solution for you. The dessert creations at Teaberry are endless due to its plethora of yogurt flavors and toppings. Some of the standard flavors are Oreo Cookie, Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate and Pomegranate with an assortment of toppings such as candies, fresh fruits, granola and sprinkles.

Tom Stennett, the owner and manager of Teaberry, was inspired to open a frozen yogurt cafe after a trip to Las Angeles where he tried the best frozen yogurt he had

Teaberry is unique to other frozen yogurt places because they offer Greek - style yogurt, frozen custard, frozen gelato and flavored shaved ice. Teaberry also sells coffee drinks, sandwiches, Dewars Taffy and other baked goods.

According to Stennett, the Oreo cookie gelato is the best seller, but he encourages everyone to come in and try all the flavors for themselves. Teaberry is open 11 AM - 10:30 PM Monday - Saturday and 11 AM - 9:30 PM Sunday.

By Ally Dahl

Spring Thursday Night Farmers’ Market i nto a c ti o n thi s month in Dow ntow n SLO at

every Thursday 6 - 9 pm on Higuera Street between Osos & Nipomo for details call (805) 541-0286 or visit www.DowntownSLO.com

Mothers’ Day Flowerth Giveaway May 10

Sponsored by: A special flower given to Mothers during Farmers’ Market!

Corner of Chorro & Higuera

Law Enforcement Night th May 17

Visit law enforcement agencies from throughout the Central Coast.

Side streets throughout Farmers’ Market

Main Stage Entertainment

Burning James and the Funky Flames

www.BurningJames.com

May 10th 7 - 8:30 pm Intersection of Nipomo & Higuera Sponsored by:

Downtown Brown’s “Under the Sea”

Birthday Party

Swim on down to celebrate with Downtown Brown and all his pals!

Chorro Street

Sponsored by:

May 31st

THE BULLETIN BOARD

42

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ROTARY DAYBREAK DONATES $1500 TO LA CLINICA

The Rotary Club of San Luis Obispo Daybreak awarded Partnership for the Children of San Luis Obispo County $1,500 to benefit La Clinica de Tolosa, their nonprofit children’s dental clinic. The funding will help support the clinic’s Preventive Care Appointment Days initiative focused on providing new patient appointments for children age 0-3. The goal of the program is to break the cycle of poor oral health by establishing a dental home at an early age, preferably by the time of a child’s first tooth eruption. Early intervention and community education are key factors in reaching this goal. La Clinica de Tolosa provides a full range of dental care to children from underserved families throughout San Luis Obispo County from infant to adolescent, and Foster Care program children under age 18. More information about the clinic’s services can be obtained online at www. clinicadetolosa.org. The award was presented to Barbara Nicholson, Partnership for the Children’s executive director, by Rotary of SLO Daybreak members Deborah Wulff, Susan Stenovec, and Julie Butler.

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

UNITED WAY YOUTH BOARD AWARDS $3000

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The United Way of San Luis Obispo County Youth Board recently awarded three $1,000 grants to local groups that have created projects having a positive impact on youth. All three projects are based within San Luis Obispo County: Improvement of Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County’s Sinsheimer School-Based Program, Estero Bay Youth Coalition’s Fun Friday, and Restorative Partners’ Juvenile Hall Project.

ADOPT A PET EVENT! FELINE NETWORK

The Feline Network has cats and kittens available for adoption every Saturday from 11 to 4 at PETCO in the Madonna Plaza Shopping Center in SLO. There are many loving and adorable felines who need homes.

Cats and kittens are spayed or neutered, tested and vaccinated prior to adoption. The adoption fee is $60 for one or $80 for two. For information on adoptions, low-cost spay/neuter, help with feral cats or to volunteer or donate, please contact us at 549-9228 (549-9CAT) or online at www. felinenetwork.org. Free Semi-tame mousers are also available.

2012 CAL POLY MUSTANG MADNESS FUNDRAISER

Cal Poly Athletics is proud to announce its annual Mustang Madness fundraising event will be held Saturday, May 19th at 4:30 p.m. at the Madonna Inn Expo Center. Now in its 13th year, this event benefits more than 550 student athletes through athletic scholarships. The 2012 Mustang Madness event is inspired by the carefree Caribbean with the theme, “It’s Five O’clock Somewhere.” The evening will also feature dinner catered by Ian McPhee, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. Since 1999, Mustang Madness events have raised more than $1.1 million for Cal Poly’s student athletes. Cal Poly Athletics welcomes local businesses to support student athletes through tax-deductible donations to the event. For more information and tickets, visit GoPoly.com or call (805)756-0277.

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711 tank Farm road • suite 100 san Luis Obispo, CA 93401 teL (805) 544-9242 • CeLL (805) 235-0493 FAX (805) 543-7838 eMAIL lynn@pacificoakforeclosure.com www.pacificoakforclosure.com

NEW TO TOWN?

25TH YEAR OF AFTERNOON OF EPICUREAN DELIGHTS

On Sunday, June 3, Community Action Partnership of SLO County will host the 25th Annual Afternoon of Epicurean Delights to benefit the work of the agency’s Health and Prevention Division. This event is the longest running food, wine and beer event on the Central Coast. It is held each year at the Chapman Estate which is positioned along the Pacific Coast in Shell Beach. The Chapman Estate and all restaurants, wineries and breweries provide the venue, food and drink as a donation to Community Action Partnership. In honor of the event’s 25th anniversary the agency will recognize Janice Fong Wolf, Clifford Chapman and Don Shidler for their lifetime achievement in service and philanthropy. For further information http://communityactionpartnershipsanluisobispo. ticketleap.com/afternoon-of-epicurean-delights/ or email areese@capslo. org. Phone inquiries may be directed to 805-549-7603.

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Get your free welcome packet!

Frank It includes maps, civic info, coupons from cafes, groceries, wineries, auto hardware, garden, medical, dental, etc.

Call your greeter or go to centralcoastwelcome.com

Liz Hiatt Owner

773-6418

centralcoastwelcome@gmail.com

A FREE SERVICE TO NEWCOMERS

•

Los Osos/Morro Bay/Cayucos/Cambria: Aloma Davis: 235-1131

•

SLO/South County/Avila: Liz Hiatt: 773-6418

•

North County: Sandy Hexberg: 238-1529

FLAVOR OF SLO: DOING GOOD AND TASTES DELICIOUS

For the fourth year running a Cal Poly Senior Project team is pairing up with local nonprofit United Way of SLO County to present Flavor of SLO, a casual fundraising event featuring tastings from more than 20 local restaurants, wineries and breweries. The event will take place on Sunday, May 6, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the historic Jack House and Gardens in SLO. Flavor of SLO will feature live music from jazz musician Dave Burnes and local band House of Painters, a raffle and a silent auction to win various gifts. All proceeds benefit our local United Way. Advance tickets are $45 for General Admission and $30 for students.

Tickets and more information are available now at www.flavorofslo.com.

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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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woods humane society – 13,000th spay/neuter

805.783.4000 phone 805.235.0463 cell 805.783.4005 fax 711 Tank Farm Rd., Ste. 100 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

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

Woods Humane Society proudly announces reaching our 13,000th Spay/Neuter Surgery since opening the doors of our Woods/Cashin, on-site spay and neuter surgical center in September of 2006. Built with the intention to provide on-site medical care and surgeries for WHS animals, the Woods/Cashin Spay & Neuter Surgical Center continues to expand every year. Although WHS does not currently provide surgeries for the general public, WHS provides spay & neuter surgeries for all of the dogs and cats at SLO County Animal Services, The Feline Network, Befriended Felines, Fast Friends Greyhound Rescue, Cal Poly Cat Rescue Program, North County Paws Cause and the California Men’s Colony (ferals). Companion animal overpopulation is a significant problem on the central coast.

Every year, each unaltered female cat can have 3 litters with an average of 4 kittens per litter. Every year, each unaltered female dog can have 2 litters with an average of 4 puppies per little—it all traces back to one dog or one cat! Spaying and neutering will reverse the growing trend in companion animal overpopulation thus reducing the number of animals entering into local shelters. For more information contact Steve Kragenbrink, Community Programs Director at 543-9316 ext. 19.

local books: Nipomo and Los Berros

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New from Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Nipomo and Los Berros by local author Doug Jenzen. This pictorial history boasts more than 200 images, giving readers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the history that shaped their community. Author proceeds are being donated to the Dana Adobe, one of the oldest residences in SLO County, for their restoration and educational efforts. The book is available at area bookstores, or through Arcadia Publishing at 888-313-2665 or go to www.arcadiapublishing.com.

“tip a cop” fundraiser for special olympics

D ressing Windows in San Luis Obispo for over 39 Years

alan’s draperies 544-9405 alansdrapery@gmail.com

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SLO County law enforcement is teaming up for the 15th Annual “TipA-Cop” fundraiser to benefit Special Olympics on Wednesday, May 9th, at the SLO Alex Madonna Expo Center. There are two seating times – 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm – for this annual event which completely sold out last year. Tickets are $150 for a table of eight. All of the proceeds from the fundraising event organized by local law enforcement officers through the Law Enforcement Torch Run are for the Special Olympics in San Luis Obispo County. Law enforcement officers volunteer their time as “celebrity waiters” and receive tips to raise funds for Special Olympics. The dinner will include a raffle and is guaranteed to be a funfilled evening. To purchase tickets, please contact Bill Proll via email at bproll@slocity.org or 781-7369.

free senior health screening

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. Takehome 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.

THE BULLETIN BOARD

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eye on Business

when non-profits mean business

By Maggie Cox, Barnett Cox & Associates

I

t’s nice when business and pleasure mix to benefit our community’s non profit organizations. Consider just a few of the events that bring people together: the Women’s Shelter Fashion Show; Senior Nutrition Program’s Night of a 1,000 Meals, Food Bank’s Hunger Awareness Day and, coming this May and June, two exciting events being produced in a new location by Hospice of San Luis Obispo County: the 26th Annual Beer Festival on Memorial Weekend and the Concours d’Elegance on June 1-3.

display to freeway drivers. Think about the cars passing through our town on a weekend and the passengers enjoying an enticing view of San Luis Obispo.

The Concours d’Elegance event is supported by dozens of local businesses who donate goods and services and underwrite the event to help Hospice of SLO County derive as many net dollars as possible.

Concours is just one of many fundraisers slated in the county over the next few months. We saw the power of the SLO Marathon just days ago, and both Beer Fest and Arroyo Grande’s Strawberry Festival will follow shortly. Morro Bay has an Oyster Festival coming up, Paso a Wine fest, and so on and on. All these great events help keep our county healthy in many ways. Find out about the many events coming up at sanluisobispocounty.com. And if you own a fab car and want to show it off, click on sanluisobispoconcours.com for entry information.

Now, this column focuses on business, and at first blush it may appear that non-profit fundraisers don’t have a lot to do with business. But the thousands of people who will come to town for these two events will prove otherwise. The Beer Festival unfolds first. In 2011, the festival shattered previous year records, selling out within two hours and hastening the festival’s move this year to larger quarters at the Madonna Expo Center.

But for reviewing the business power of an event, let’s look at Concours d’Elegance. This is a three day event showcasing luxury automobiles and the people who love them—owners and spectators alike. Collectors from throughout the U.S. have already signed up to exhibit, and entries range from Ferraris to classic British motorcycles with some stunning surprises included in the mix. Unique automobiles like these have their own fan clubs whose members trek to shows to see the cars firsthand, talk to the owners and enjoy the fun of a vintage vehicle event.

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And you know the rest—these fans stay in hotels, eat out in restaurants, explore local wineries and mosey downtown to enjoy our stores, galleries and creek walk. Not only do they support the local economy while they’re here on the Central Coast, but they head home and talk up their fabulous trip to San Luis Obispo County.

They post photos on Facebook and tweet about their experience.

Personal web pages get loaded with a shot of SLO County energy and it all helps generate future visits from neighbors and friends curious to see for themselves.

...and at more than 600 high traffic locations throughout the Central Coast.

More than 25,000 copies distributed monthly.

Reach all the SLOcals & beyond!

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The events are economic drivers beyond the tourism effect. Sound systems, tents, tables and chairs are rented. Security staff is retained and restroom facilities leased. There are programs and tickets to print and media ads to purchase for event promotion. Banners and other signs get produced. Food and beverage vendors follow wherever crowds of people gather and retailers can count on everything from sun hats and comfortable shoes to get snatched up when special events unfold.

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The Concours event has been gaining steam in the county for several years, and this year Hospice organizers elected to move it to The Meadows at Madonna Inn to accommodate the event’s growing attendance. The new location not only houses a larger group, but offers a perfect attention-getting effect—gorgeous green pasture and the running white fences frame a collection of spectacular cars on

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COMMUNITY may 12 is Hug Your Cat Day. Author Martin Buxbaum said, “If we treated everyone we meet with the same affection we bestow upon our favorite cat, they, too, would purr. “

MAY Almanac

national wildflower week is here. Gardeners and tourists spread wildflowers. They carried the native California poppy across America and around the world.

By Phyllis Benson

may 13 is Mother’s Day.

“You know it’s going to be a bad day

Quip: You know you’re a mother when you count the sprinkles on

when you jump out of bed and miss the floor.” --- Blog

each kid’s cupcake to make sure they’re equal.

may opens with Law Day and Mother Goose Day. President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed the first Law Day

in 1958. He said, “A foundation of our American way of life is our national respect for law.”

Rhymes: Mother Goose Day began 25 years ago to appreciate old nursery rhymes. Break out the Mother Goose book and read to the kids. A few rounds of dancing with “Mulberry Bush” makes them nap-ready.

Star Wars Day is May 4. Movie fans pun, “May the fourth be with you.”

sesquicentennial: On May 5, 1862, the Mexican militia defeated the French army at the Battle of Puebla. A minor event in the greater Franco-American war, the date was adopted for regional Mexican cultural festivals.

footrace: The Bay to Breakers run is May 20. This year no alcohol and no floats are permitted in the race. And no pets or wheeled objects such as strollers, baby joggers, shopping carts, rollerblades, skateboards, bicycles, or unicycles. our runner says that leaves 50,000 entrants who get to run instead of jumping over beer kegs, barfing kids, barking dogs and rolling bed frames. runner’s limerick: There was a young woman named Bright,

Whose speed was much faster than light. She set out one day In a relative way, And returned on the previous night.

may is Older Americans Month. john updike wrote, “What you lose as you age is witnesses, the ones that watched from early on and cared, like your own little grandstand.” may is Mental Health Month.

may 5 festivities bring Mexican food, frolic and dance. Our favorite

athlete Max Walker said, “We’re all crazy and the only difference between patients and their therapists is the therapists haven’t been caught yet.”

may hosts Etiquette Week. Essayist Maurice Baring wrote,

75 years ago the Golden Gate Bridge opened to vehicle traffic.

The bridge officially opened to pedestrians on May 27 and vehicles on May 28, 1937.

restaurant serves up mariachi music, tequila margaritas, and tortilla wraps. Even the cat gets fish tacos.

“Whoever one is, and wherever one is, one is always in the wrong if one is rude.”

edward lear was born May 12, 1812. The artist and poet, famous

for popularizing limericks, suffered lifelong illnesses including epilepsy and asthma. His bicentenary is marked with the International Owl and Pussycat Day.

memorial day is May 30. Fly the flag and honor those who died in service to their country.

flowers beckon, cats snooze, and dogs lounge under the tree. We are going to read limericks and eat animal cookies. Have a merry May.

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