July 2016 Journal Plus

CAROLYN ELLIOT T | JIM HILL | CONSUELO MACEDO | CHRIS TOPHER WOODRUFF | EMPOWER

Journal JULY 2016

PLUS

MAGA ZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST

BRUCE VAN VORT

805-543-2172

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110 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande

w w w.FA R R E LL S M Y T H.c om In the Heart of the Central Coast Wine Country

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Founders Community Bank, recently opened a new full-service branch at 1245 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA. Originally established in May 2005, Founders Community Bank now has two full-service offices in San Luis Obispo, a full-service office in Morro Bay, and a loan production office in Atascadero.

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CONTENTS

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

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CHRISTOPHER WOODRUFF

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 Jan Owens, Kyle Owens, Jim Parsons, Mike Pluneda

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JIM HILL

MIKAELA JENSEN

ADVERTISING Steve Owens CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Stewart, Joseph Carotenuti, Dr. James Brescia, Sarah Hedger, Maggie Cox, Will Jones, Deborah Cash, Heather Young, Don Morris, Ruth Starr, Doug Gaehle, Natasha Dalton and Carole Christman Koch.

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 a free monthly distributed to over 600 locations throughout the Central Coast and is also available online at slojournal.com Editorial submissions are welcome but are published at the discretion of the publisher. Submissions will be returned if accompanied by a stamped self addressed envelope. No material published in the magazine can be reproduced without written permission.

Opinions expressed in the byline articles are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the JOURNAL PLUS MAGAZINE. COVER PHOTO BY TOM MEINHOLD

PEOPLE 8 10 12 16 18

BRUCE VAN VORT CHRISTOPHER WOODRUFF CAROLYN ELLIOTT JIM HILL CONSUELA MACEDO

HOME & OUTDOOR 20 NATIONAL ICE CREAM MONTH 22 SAVING STROKES PROGRAM 24 FOOD / AT THE MARKET

COMMUNITY 26 28 29 30 31 32 34 36 42

SLO ROTARY REBUILDS DALLIDET STAGE FESTIVAL MOZAIC OUR LIBRARIES EMPOWER PROGRAM 32ND ANNUAL RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL HISTORY: Cal Poly and Myron Angel OUR SCHOOLS – Dr. James Brescia 4-H – MIKAELA JENSEN COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD

BUSINESS

37 DOWNTOWN SLO What’s Happening

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---- Coming up at the ----

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER ---- San Luis Obispo ----

WILLY WONKA JULY 9 | 7:00 p.m.

JULY 10 | 2:00 p.m.

JULY 15 | 7:00 p.m.

JULY 16 | 7:00 p.m.

JULY 16 | 2:00 p.m.

Alex & Faye Spanos Theatre Presented by Kelrik Productions

HAPPY TOGETHER TOUR

JULY 14 | 7:30 p.m.

Christopher Cohan Center Presented by Pacific Coast Concerts

FESTIVAL MOZAIC: MAHLER IN PERSPECTIVE JULY 23 | 8:00 p.m.

Christopher Cohan Center Presented by Festival Mozaic

www.pacslo.org

805.756.4849

From the publisher All the statistics in the world can’t measure the warmth of a smile.

Chris Hart

J

uly offers several great events for you to enjoy on the Central Coast. One of our favorites is the Renaissance Festival held at Laguna Lake Park. Rick Smith has been organizing the festival for many years and does a great job. At last year’s event we were surprised by a rainstorm and most of the Sunday activities were cancelled. All the profits for this two-day event went down the drain. This year there are several new additions for your enjoyment. You can read all about it on page 31. Support them if you can.

Plenty of good reading again this month including our cover story on Bruce Van Vort. Bruce has been helping our Central Coast non-profits for several years.

You’ll enjoy his story. Joe Carotenuti’s history column tells us about Myron Angel’s connection with Cal Poly, Deborah Cash profiles Cal Poly’s Band Director, Christopher Woodruff, and Ruth Starr caught up with Arroyo Grande Mayor, Jim Hill.

Enjoy the magazine.

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Beautiful views from this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath former model home in Kingfisher Canyon. Situated on a large corner lot, this Del Mar floor plan offers single-level living on the main floor. The entry level consists of the living room, kitchen, master suite and laundry. Lower level features two bedrooms, one full bath and a den. Recently remodeled with hardwood floors throughout the living areas and bedrooms, all new interior paint, custom shades, updated landscaping and high-end appliances. Move right in and enjoy this peaceful setting in the San Luis Bay Estates.

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Meticulously maintained home in the highly sought after French Park neighborhood. This 2,720 square foot cul-de-sac home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and an office. Numerous upgrades including beautiful slate floors throughout the main living areas, granite countertops, AC, reverse osmosis and crown molding. Recent updates with all new kitchen appliances, water heater, gas fireplace insert and pavers in the front entryway. The 3-car attached garage has tons of built in storage. The backyard is an entertainer’s delight with an outdoor BBQ, island and fridge. Drought conscience landscaping makes this home easy and inexpensive to maintain. Located in the Los Ranchos Elementary School district, walking distance to parks and shops and just minutes from downtown SLO. View the complete virtual tour at: www.tourfactory.com/1575735

Erin Mott Broker/Owner BRE# 01448769 ph: 805.234.1946 erin@mpsrealty.com

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BRUCE VAN VORT FROM CHILD MODEL TO QUIET PHILANTHROPIST

By Susan Stewart

A

t the ripe old age of 7, Bruce Van Vort was on television almost every night. And he hated it. He and his two brothers (ages 9 and 11) were the top child models in New York City for two years running, appearing in magazine ads and TV commercials, selling everything from dog food to dish soap.

“It was the worst time of my life,” he said.

The hours were long, the work brutal. The boys went to school in the morning and worked from noon on into the night. They shot summer ads in winter and winter ads in summer. Worst of all, his classmates teased him and called him names. To this day, Van Vort shuns the spotlight and the camera, despite being named 2015’s Citizen of the Year and running Fin’s, a restaurant in SLO’s south county named 2015’s Business of the Year.

But the modeling gig lasted just two years, and then his childhood returned to “normal.”

Born and raised in New York City, Van Vort credits his smart and strong-willed mother with much of his own success. When his

“To those who have been given much, much shall be expected.” father—a brilliant Columbia grad who later became COO of a large national corporation—left his mother with three small boys to raise alone, Anne Quinn Van Vort got busy. A former Ford Agency model herself, she borrowed the money to create portfolios for her boys and took them to the daily “cattle calls” in Manhattan. Soon they were all very much in demand. And the plan allowed Anne to be with her sons every step of the way, protecting them from the potential abuses child models were prone to.

“My mother refused to take money from anyone,” said Van Vort.

“Even when Little League saw we were a fatherless family and offered to take us for free, she turned them down. And she never considered taking money from the government. … Seeing this smart, single female toughing it out alone was a huge influence on me.”

Earning a degree in business from CUNY (City University of New York) in 1979, Van Vort’s first adult job was at Yankee Stadium where he worked for a concession company. A naturally talented leader, he quickly rose to general manager and two years later was sent to California. Soon Van Vort found himself in charge of the regional western states for Canteen Corporation.

Bruce and United Way’s CEO, Rick London at Fin’s during one of his fundraisers.

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“We would take over businesses and make them better,” said Van Vort. Another promotion took him to Chicago from where he travelled all over the country, handling acquisitions. He would eventually end up in South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore, working

PEOPLE concessions in partnership with the National Park Service.

“We had a hundred million dollars to improve things,” he recalled. “Walkways, buildings, … it took 8 years.”

Van Vort worked closely on the Mount Rushmore project with Dan Wenk, an official with the National Park Service. When the project was completed, Wenk went on to become Acting Director of the National Park Service and Van Vort jokes that he ended up washing dishes at Fin’s. What?

You see, Bruce explained, 15 years ago, the company he works for bid on the Pismo Beach Golf Course project (another State Parks enterprise) that includes Fin’s Seafood Restaurant, and won it. The move and the new job would allow him to spend more time with his children. To date, Van Vort has adopted 5 children.

Colleague Leslie McKinley, from SLO County’s United Way, says: “Bruce adopts these young kids who are so angry and hurting, and he loves them to death, and turns them around. He does it because he sees them in pain and wants to help.”

others. This year’s “Fiesta at Fin’s” was held on Cinco de Mayo and raised more than $18,500, with every penny spent by happy patrons going directly to the Coalition. Even the servers donated their time and turned over their tips! A portion of the proceeds went to Lucia Mar’s Families in Transition program supporting homeless youth.

“What amazes me is One of the many fundraisers held at Fin’s Restaurant for our local non-profits. the courage it takes to get up off some being that “To those who have been given stranger’s couch or much, much shall be expected.” carport and go to school,” said Van Vort.

“Can you imagine how hard that is?”

Generous, compassionate, and completely without judgment, Van Vort has lived up to The Pismo Beach Golf Course donates one this lesson, and has unwittingly acquired full day each year to similar nonprofits, too quite a local fan club. Among them are the numerous to list.

California State Park’s Dena Bellman, and United Way’s Rick London, Janna Nichols, For this and much more, Bruce Van Vort was and Leslie McKinley. named Citizen of the Year for 2015 by the

It started with Roger, a dirty, disheveled 6-year-old who “walked in the door and changed my life,” said Van Vort.

Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach Chambers of Commerce, with Fin’s named Business of the Year as well.

He and his then wife had begun doing foster care at Mount Rushmore. The night he met Roger, he watched as the little boy bonded first with the family dog, the two of them silently staring at the fireplace side by side.

“He broke my heart,” said Van Vort.

But his employees are the real heroes, Van Vort insists. While he manages to attract a roster of local celebrities—police chiefs, sheriffs, mayors and the like—to help serve at the annual fundraising events, his employees also step up to work them, donating their time and even their tips to the cause.

Of the many foster children he helped over the years, Van Vort officially adopted five of them, all grown now and doing well. Jerry spent time in the Navy and is about to become a winemaker in Connecticut; Lisa will soon receive her R.N.; Patrick did two tours in Afghanistan and will soon be a warrant officer; Delia runs a women’s retail fashion store locally; and Michael is “… the kindest man I know,” says Bruce.

Raising a child with a troubled past is not easy. Over the years, Van Vort jokes that no matter where he lived he got to know judges and lawyers pretty well. Today, Van Vort has shifted his enormous capacity for compassion to his community, supporting the countless nonprofits that help those in need.

Twice each year, Van Vort holds fundraising events at Fin’s to support the Five Cities Homeless Coalition, the United Way, and

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“I’m coming from a place of abundance,” says Van Vort. “They’re coming from a place of maybe not being able to pay the rent!”

With language liberally infused with references to being “blessed” and “letting God decide,” Van Vort says he has been “one of those guys lucky enough to be at the right place at the right time my whole life.” His jobs with the big national parks have afforded him the chance to breakfast with the sons of presidents (JFK, Jr.) and lunch with Supreme Court justices (Sandra Day O’Connor).

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One of his favorite and often quoted Bible stories is a New Testament parable commonly known as The Widow’s Mite. While rich people gave easily to the temple treasury, it was the poor widow with just two copper coins who gave the most, because even out of her poverty, she put in all she had. The lesson

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christopher woodruff

Directing, conducting, performing ...and all that jazz

By Deborah Cash

“I grew up in a house always filled with music,” said Christopher Woodruff, who, as a young boy, lived in Gainesville, Florida and recalls his music-loving father playing the clarinet and oboe. “Country, folk, rock, classical and sounds of Simon and Garfunkel, Pink Floyd, Peter, Paul and Mary, Mahler, Herb Alpert— all types. When I started playing violin in the third grade, I knew then that I wanted to do something musical with my life.”

Today, Woodruff is an accomplished professional trumpet player, conductor and band director; he is also the Associate Director of Bands and Instructor of Trumpet at Cal Poly. Though he’s far exceeded his 11th grade decision to “someday be a high school band director,” Woodruff’s journey has retained his core rationale. “I had so many positive and joyful experiences in my high school band,” he said. “I wanted to do that for others.”

In junior high, Woodruff said he particularly liked the sound of his uncle’s cornet and soon moved to the trumpet. “It’s good for marching bands; it projects better in outdoor scenes and jazz bands,” he said. He went on to play in the high school band, jazz band and county youth orchestra. He was taking lessons and became involved with the Gainesville Chamber Orchestra. Six weeks before his senior year, he attended the Empire Brass Quintet Seminar at the famed Tanglewood Music Center, summer home of the Boston Symphony, where he played with high-level musicians and attended concerts. “Being from a small town in Florida, I was humbled and inspired,” he said.

It was there that Woodruff met a faculty member from Louisiana State University whom Woodruff admired and was determined to study with; after graduation and enrolling at the large university Young Woodruff at the piano.

in Baton Rouge, Woodruff said he joined the 280-member LSU marching band and made the top concert band wind ensemble. “I performed a lot even though I was pursuing an education degree,” he noted. “There was just so much music,” he said. “Louisiana is known for its great jazz and players. I received the best training.” In addition, his marching band experience was enhanced including several trips to the Sugar Bowl. As a section leader for trumpets, Woodruff says he gained leadership and organization skills; eventually it occurred to him he would be happier teaching at the college level.

The realization that his initial vision had greater realms than he previously imagined propelled him through the next decade or so of continued studies, lessons, introductions and new areas of expertise such as writing drills for marching bands and conducting orchestras.

Woodruff earned his Master of Music degree in conducting from Northwestern University studying under distinguished instructors like John P. Paynter, Stephen G. Peterson and Mallory Thompson.

“Northwestern is a highly select private school,” said. “That’s where I find Cal Poly is similar in that here, too, you have some of the brightest minds and highest expectations.”

Prior to coming to the west coast, Woodruff taught at the University of Northern Iowa and Lycoming College, Williamsport, PA, honing his expertise in teaching music education methods, music theory, drill writing and instrumental conducting and conducting rehearsals and performances of jazz and marching bands.

At Cal Poly now for nearly a decade, Woodruff says he has been fortunate to work with great colleagues who came from good schools. “We have a certain common tenor or resonance throughout our faculty here,”

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Outside of music, Woodruff says he enjoys cycling, “Because you can here.” He adds, “The hills are just my level and cycling keeps me healthy plus I meet other folks.” He also cycles to work from his 1915-era house in downtown SLO where he gardens and shares in the care of the neighborhood cat. His father and stepmom still live in Florida and his mother and stepdad live in Lancaster, Pennsylvania along with his half-sister who graduated from Millersville University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Theater Stage Management. “I grew up an only child,” he said, “I was probably enough at the time! Now my mom has two kids with careers in the arts.”

Woodruff also enjoys science fiction literature and film, theater, hiking, photography and travel. He’s especially looking forward to touring Vienna, Prague and Budapest this summer with the Cal Poly Symphony.

Directing the Cal Poly Band in San Francisco this year.

he said—pun intended—adding, “though it is a little more relaxed atmosphere than my previous work environments.” Woodruff explained that back east it’s de rigueur to sport coat and tie in the classroom; however, he notes, the casual dress at Cal Poly does not lower the expectation for excellence. “The window dressing is different is all,” he laughs.

But ultimately, it’s the students that Woodruff wants to talk about. Their happiness through music is what his life has been all about—helping them realize the joy he felt as a youngster when he picked up his instrument and played in an orchestra or marched in a band.

“Ten years ago, the Cal Poly Mustang Band had about 105 members. We’re now up to about 220,” Woodruff proudly noted. “I think we attract students who want a quality band experience. Some people say they chose Cal Poly because of the band.”

Teenager Woodruff “jams” with his dad.

The goal of the Cal Poly Mustang Band is to make a beautiful sound, Woodruff says definitively. “Everything we do is to support that, to serve the music.” He’s emphatic that the music be beautiful no matter where it’s playing, whether in the stands, in a concert hall or on the parade route. “People want to hear good music. A marching band is simply a wind ensemble that moves,” he said.

Woodruff attributes the spike in band enrollment to having a quality product that looks good, sounds good—and most importantly— the musicians work well together. “When you have a great time doing something,” he said, “the word gets out.” In addition, the Mustang Band won—for the third year in a row—first place in the Chinese New Year’s Parade in San Francisco.

Asked how his family felt about his choice of a career in music, Woodruff said his father was excited but his mother wasn’t so sure at first. “She hoped I would be a lawyer,” he said. “But I know she’s glad I chose this path because I’m happy.”

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Cal Poly bands with special performances including an alumni concert (held in June) where more than 100 Cal Poly band alumni assembled and produced beautiful music under a proud Woodruff’s direction.

As for himself, Woodruff says his greatest joy in life is music. “This is a lifestyle for me,” he explained. “Making music is a means of finding one’s flow style, a way of being active and expressive with other people. I want to do music that will be performed well and that people will want to hear.” To that end, Woodruff was an Assistant Conductor for the SLO Symphony for this past season, has played guest principal trumpet there, plays trumpet for Symphony of the Vines and with Orchestra Novo and was guest conductor for the SLO Chamber Orchestra in 2015 and 2016.

805 Aerovista #103, San Luis Obispo J U L Y

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carolyn elliott Reuniting Fresia and Carolyn

By Will Jones

Have to say GOOD BYE to this stray dog who has won my heart. No doubt, I have won hers, too, over the last three days. If there was a way to get her to California, believe me, I’d be making it happen.

—Facebook Post: January 9, 2016, 5:52 AM, Ciudad Punta Arenas, Chile After a spectacular thirteen-day trek through the glaciers and snow covered peaks of Patagonia, Carolyn Elliott spent three days in Punta Arenas, Chile, her departure point for the return trip to her home in San Luis Obispo. A dog lover, with three of her own awaiting her, over those three days she befriended and fell in love with a nameless stray dog that lived in the parking lot of the Hotel Diego de Almagro.

“Bawling my eyes out,” she said, the last thing she saw as the airport taxi pulled away was her new friend curled up in her familiar spot against the wall of the hotel.

The youngest of four children, Carolyn was born in Pasadena in 1963.

Her mother, a “Los Angeles socialite from a very wealthy family,” Carolyn said, never wanted for anything. But her parents divorced when

Carolyn enjoying the beauty of Patagonia.

she was three, and “My mother did a complete 180. She moved us to the mountains near Squaw Valley, refused support from her family, and changed her life. We lived in a cabin; she milked cows, picked grapes, whatever it took to support us. It was a really gutsy move.”

Carolyn attributes her own adventurous spirit and tenacity to her mother’s example. “She took us on backpacking trips on the John Muir Trail. I remember walking through meadows filled with flowers and appreciating the beauty. I was just going with the flow, but later I realized how unique the experience was. My mother was like the mother in Wild, determined to be independent and survive on her own.”

The family moved first to Dinuba so the children could attend elementary school and then to Morro Bay in 1975. Carolyn attended Morro Bay Elementary and graduated from Morro Bay High School in 1982. “She worked as a waitress, still refusing help from her parents.

I swam, took piano lessons and became a competitive skate boarder, traveling around the state and winning open competitions.”

Following high school, Carloyn enrolled in the pre-nursing program at Cuesta and then moved to Orange County to earn her degree as a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Pacific Coast College. “I worked nights and weekends as a nurses’ assistant to support myself. When I graduated I was certified in IV and labor and delivery.”

Spectacular views in Patagonia.

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Carolyn got to sit in the right front seat of a small plane on a scuba diving trip to Australia, and after watching the pilot she thought, “I could do that. I inherited from my mother the belief that I could do anything if put my mind to it. When I set a goal for myself, I finish

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I don’t stop until it’s done.” After another year working and saving, she enrolled in a program to become a chief pilot and flight instructor. “I worked for a company that provided planes but I had to find students.” She flew for six years, six days a week, at a time when there was a surplus of pilots, but “I just couldn’t earn enough money to continue in that profession.”

Carolyn brought good reading on her trip.

it. Whether it’s nursing or aeronautical school, or an Ironman competition (she has completed one full and four half Ironmans), when I make up my mind to do it,

Carolyn attended school to become an esthetician, and within a year or two her clients started inquiring about a new technology, permanent make-up, achieved through tattooing. “I didn’t have tattoos, I didn’t like tattoos and at first I said, ‘Hell no!’ But clients kept asking, so I thought ‘There’s a message that I’m supposed to hear.’” In those days, the mid-nineties, the training to acquire the skill lasted a weekend, but now it takes one hundred hours or more with continuing education requirements. Carolyn has her own salon in San Luis Obispo and has been a permanent make-up esthetician for twenty years.

A passion for taking long hikes, both locally and in the area around Mt. Shasta, where she spends time each year, led Carolyn to sign up for an REI trek in Patagonia. She covered 144 rugged miles, along the way spreading

Fresia

the ashes of a good friend who had taken her own life, fulfilling a promise she’d made to her friend’s family. “I’ve never been on a trip where my feet hurt so badly, but I managed to keep up with the guide the whole time. The scenery was unimaginably dramatic and inspiring.”

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Arriving in Punta Arenas at the end of the trip, Carolyn noticed that there were a lot of street dogs, but she was attracted to one in particular. “She was starved for affection. Every time I came in and out we interacted. She always came when I called for her. I kept telling myself, ‘Don’t get attached,’ but I kept taking pictures and getting closer to her, as her to me. I just broke down when I got in the taxi to leave. The driver handed me a roll of toilet paper to dry my tears.”

Carolyn’s Facebook post at the airport yielded immediate response from her friends. “They wrote, ‘How can you leave her,’ and I responded, ‘How can I take her, I live seven thousand miles away!’” By the time she landed in Santiago, a friend and colleague in England, Lorena Oberg, sent her a message saying “I hope you don’t mind, but I’ve named your dog Fresia (which means ‘warrior’ in a native Chilean language), and I’ve started a private Facebook page called Reuniting Fresia and Carolyn.”

“Even though I had initiated the response by my first Facebook post, I had three dogs at home, I had just finished an exhausting three week trip, and the last thing I could think about was bringing a dog home. I kept asking questions like, ‘How much is this going to cost me,’ and Lorena responded, ‘How can you put a price tag on love?

That dog needs you and loves you.’ You can’t argue with that. Someone else wrote, ‘Start a Go Fund Me account,’ and I said ‘What’s Go Fund Me?’” Carolyn was supposed to have four relaxing days when she got back before returning to work, but that wasn’t the case. “I hit the ground

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All the family dogs together.

running on getting Fresia to California. Lorena, born and raised in Chile, started making phone calls. She talked to a veterinarian in Punta Arenas who directed her to a woman, Maritza Miranda, who rescued dogs.”

Maritza picked up Fresia a day after Carolyn left. She fostered Fresia for seven days while Carolyn started a Go Fund Me campaign. Normally, a dog would have to get shots and be in quarantine for thirty days before flying, but, remarkably, the vet Maritza took Fresia to recognized her, remembered spaying her and giving her rabies shots, and signed her off.

Thanks to the incredible efforts of a friend, the kind assistance of strangers, and the generosity of those who helped Carolyn raise $2500 to help pay for Fresia’s journey, in eight days she was on her way to Santiago and then on to Los Angeles. Maritza had even taken her to a doggie spa to prepare her for her new life. The total cost of getting Fresia to Los Angeles was $3200.

Eleven days after Carolyn left the hotel, Fresia flew in on the same exact airplane, same tail number, same arrival time as Carolyn’s return flight. “She recognized me as soon as she saw me. Her travel time, from Punta Arenas to San Luis Obispo, had been thirty hours.

She was a dehydrated, tired puppy.”

“Every time I wake up I just can’t believe she’s here. She’s just a gift.

She’s everything about joy and love. She was so sad in Punta Arenas.

To be able to offer a dog a completely different life is so rewarding.

Given the harsh winters where she lived, she might have been dead within a few months. There are still so many good people in a world that sometimes isn’t very pretty.”

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When our interview was over, Carolyn opened the door to her yard and Fresia flew into the house. She tore up and down the stairs, through the kitchen and dining room and to our feet in the living room. There’s a lovely album by guitarist Bill Frisell titled “Good Dog, Happy Man.” Given the beauty of Carolyn and Fresia’s story I would amend it to “Good Dog, Happy Dog; Good People, Happy People,” and let the sweet music begin.

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PEOPLE

Jim Hill

a mayor in high heals

By Ruth Starr

E

very year Jim Hill puts on a pair of high heels and walks the walk. It’s, of course, all for a good cause. Walk A Mile In Her Shoes is a fundraiser created to

bring awareness and to prevent sexual abuse to women. Mayor of Arroyo Grande, Hill is also a regular participant in the ALS walk that raises funds for Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Jim says the parks and recreation department does a great job of promoting community events and he always tries to attend and become involved in them.

Campaigning has always been interesting to Jim Hill who has been the Mayor of Arroyo Grande for the last two years. He was voted mayor by a write-in vote. It is very rare that a write-in candidate wins an election. In 2014 Jim unseated the long time incumbent mayor amidst a scandal. The people of Arroyo Grande were very unhappy with the scandal and chose Jim to be the new mayor as a way to help the community heal.

Jim’s start in public service was on the Oceano Community Services District where he was elected for two four-year terms. On taking office in December 2004, he became president of the Oceano board, as well as on and off director of the South County Sanitation Board. The Community Services District was responsible for fire, trash collection, water, sewer, and street lighting. It was his job to see that those services were carried out by the employees of the District.

Your Happy Place.

He loved going door to door and meeting people and hearing what they wanted in their town. They were very receptive to his visits. He never forgot one man whom he met that looked very intimidating. He couldn’t vote as he had been in prison, but he told Jim that he wanted so much for the Community Center in Oceano to be built so kids would have a place to go and not go down the road he had gone. The Center was built in 2007 while Jim was in office in Oceano. He found that most people have the same basic concerns—good schools for their kids and a nice place to live.

One of the founding people that created the joint powers of the Five Cities Fire Authority, Jim said that even though it was called five cities, the cities involved were Grover Beach, Arroyo Grande,

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PEOPLE and Oceano. The reasoning was to have a better service level and reduce cost.

In 2010, there was a huge sewage spill at the Sanitation District Plant. The pumps shut down at the plant. The plant flooded because of enormous rainfall. The sewer trunk lines backed up and spilled over. Eventually the waters receded and the plant was fixed.

The Regional Water Quality Board then fined the South County Sanitation District Headquarters for $500,000. It turned into a major lawsuit that is still ongoing with the fine now over a million dollars. This was a difficult time while he worked in Oceano.

In Arroyo Grande there was a Charter City ballot measure being proposed to go into effect that there would be no more requirement for a balanced budget. Hill was the lone opponent to this measure. It didn’t go through. He knew the importance of having a balanced budget.

Born in the San Fernando Valley, Jim moved with his family to San Jose where he attended high school. Already interested in Engineering, Jim pursued that

path leading to 1975 where he was in and out of Pacific Gas and Electric in San Luis Obispo doing contract work. Then in 1981 he had the chance to come to work for PG&E full time.

In 2010 he got his JD Juris Doctor Law Degree here at the San Luis Obispo School of Law. He still enjoys being an engineer working at Diablo Canyon Power Plant.

Jim’s wife, Lin, helps and supports Jim by keeping his calendar especially with his election coming up in November. They have one dog, Tessa who is a golden retriever five years old.

One of Jim’s favorite events is going to Toastmasters. He encourages these events to take place as he feels it is so good for the community. Working with the five cities homeless coalition, they were able to provide a warming shelter so homeless people could have a place to go in bad weather. The shelters are staffed by volunteers that include Jim and Lin.

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grade class from St. Patrick’s school in Arroyo Grande who collected and turned in all the aluminum pop tops they could collect and find. There were ten pounds and the students donated all the money to cancer research for children through the Optimist Club. They came to the City Council Meeting and received a certificate of appreciation from the Mayor. Because of their participation, they all got a pin with the city emblem.

Jim also was grateful to be invited to the New Tech High School in Nipomo to talk to their government class about what kind of laws they would like to see passed and the process. Jim was very excited to see the kind of enthusiasm the kids showed. As mayor, Jim Hill has certainly enriched his life as well as the lives of the people in his community.

Since his mayorship, the community of Arroyo Grande has been able to heal and get back to business.

There are certainly many rewarding situations that happen such as the third

H O W

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NOTIFIED

IN AN EMERGENCY? • A key step in preparing for emergencies is knowing the ways in which you may be notified. In San Luis Obispo County, officials will utilize different public alert and notification systems based on the type and severity of the emergency. Some of the options available include the Early Warning System sirens, the Emergency Alert System (EAS), and Reverse 911. • Should an emergency occur at Diablo Canyon Power Plant that requires the public to take action, the sirens and EAS would be the primary method of public alert and notification. These systems provide rapid and consistent information throughout the Emergency Planning Zone. • During an emergency, it is important to stay tuned to local radio and TV stations to receive current information and any actions you may need to take.

• For more information on how you can be kept informed of local emergencies, please visit: www.slocounty.ca.gov/oes or call (805)781-5011.

OUR ALERT & NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS MAY BE USED FOR ANY LOCAL EMERGENCY OUR ALERT AND NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS MAY BE USED FOR ANY LOCAL EMERGENCY TSUNAMI

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PEOPLE

Consuelo Macedo: A humble Volunteer with a Distinguished record

By Natasha Dalton

C

onsuelo means consolation in Spanish, and it’s a fitting name for a cheerful and outgoing lady, who sees service to others as an essential part of her life. Consuelo Macedo regularly donates her beautiful platinum locks to patients undergoing chemotherapy, prunes roses in the Heirloom Gardens, cooks for volunteers and fundraisers, and does many other things for public benefit.

“Both of my parents were deeply involved in volunteer work on behalf of veterans and encouraged our service to the community,” Mrs. Macedo says, crediting her Catholic upbringing and many happy years as a Girl Scout for her altruistic sense of duty.

Consuelo fell in love with the Central Coast after marrying a Cambria native, Richard Macedo. In 1988, the two built a house on the property that previously belonged to Richard’s family, and for ten years the couple split their time between Fresno—Consuelo’s hometown, where they both worked—and their beloved coastal community. While in Fresno, the two kept abreast of the coastal news through subscription to The Cambrian.

By the time Consuelo and Richard retired and relocated to Cambria full-time, they knew exactly what they wanted to become involved in.

“Santa Rosa Catholic Church was at the top of the list, and the Cambria Historical Society came in a close second,” Mrs. Macedo says. “We were inspired by Susan MacDonald to join in and ‘Save the Bianchini’—a decrepit 1870s house, which the Historical Society then bought and restored as the community Historical Museum and Heirloom Gardens.

Since then, the museum has become the center for preserving, collective memories and building lasting friendships, with monthly speakers and events celebrating community spirit.

“It’s a labor of love and a home away from home, where I spend many pleasant hours working in the garden, giving guided tours of the museum and town, and doing publicity,” Mrs. Macedo says about the museum. “I feel fortunate to live in a very caring community,” she adds: Cambria, with its population of some 6,600, has over 40 nonprofits, where “many volunteers are working hard, supporting and inspiring each other—and all for the common good.”

This year, Cambria is celebrating its Sesquicentennial anniversary, and Mrs. Macedo is contributing her talents to organizing the festivities. “This is so important to me: to continue the efforts of dedicated people such as noted rancher and historian Dawn Dunlap; author Sharon Lovejoy, who initially put the house into the National Registry of Historical Places in 1980; and columnist and former Historical Society President, Kathe Tanner,” she says. “I’ve been privileged to work with Yard and Garden specialist, Mike Rice, who has mentored us tirelessly about the heirloom plants. The devotion and efforts of so many other volunteers over the years is energizing to all of us!”

Writing has always been Mrs. Macedo’s most important passion and she is glad to use it for the benefit of organizations she supports.

Besides being on the Board of Directors of the Historical Society, she is deeply involved in the work of the Native Daughters of the Golden West, where she serves as a Secretary and Public Relations liaison, promoting history, service, and legacy of native-born Californians.

In addition, Mrs. Macedo writes a column for The Cambrian, which reflects many of her interests, including photography, geography and geology, and often features exotic recipes and beautiful snapshots.

“My first publication of note was the Culinary Column for the Air Force Officers Wives Magazine in the sixties,” Mrs. Macedo says.

After moving to Cambria in 1999, she immediately began the weekly

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PEOPLE In more recent history, her grandparents came to California from two different continents. The grandparents on her mother’s side arrived from Mexico, while her dad has Scotch-Welsh background, with ties to Daniel Boone. In fact, it was Consuelo’s father who stimulated her interest in the family history, as well as history of California.

Cooking for volunteers

“My sister Erica (also a history buff) has done lots of work through DNA testing to substantiate our legacy,” Mrs. Macedo explains.

One particular DNA testing, arranged by Erica, led to a surprising discovery: it turned out that she, Consuelo and Consuelo’s neighbor Teresa are, in fact, distant relatives. For two neighbors who have always got along splendidly, the news that their extended families were related ‘was a delight.

Interest in history and cultural awareness makes traveling more enjoyable. “I’m very fortunate to have an opportunity to travel, and I continue visiting places I never dreamed possible to visit when I was reading about them as a child,” Mrs. Macedo says.

Dos Consuelos y Teresa

Culinary Corner and news reporting for The Cambrian, which she continues to this day, although not as often.

As is the case with many Americans, Mrs. Macedo’s family boasts a fascinating mix of ethnic roots. Her late husband’s family name Macedo reveals its link to Macedonia. “When we did DNA tests through the National Geographic Genome Project about ancient migrations, that took us as far as Rome,” Mrs. Macedo says. Further research with Dr. Dan Krieger of Cal Poly and The Tribune, explained how as the Romans overtook other nations, they conscripted soldiers, and sent a cohort of Macedonians to the Iberian Peninsula, in mainland Portugal. “The Azores, home of Richard’s immediate ancestors, are 1,000 miles out to sea, and were not inhabited until 40 years after Henry the Navigator. Isn’t history fascinating?” Mrs. Macedo says.

“My maiden name is Stewart, and we come from a royal line all the way back to the times of William the Conqueror,” she adds.

She’s been to many faraway places: from Ireland to Israel, from Spain to Russia—and shared her experiences in her column. “My philosophy is: ‘Do it now, don’t wait,’ as I have advised many others who have said they were thinking about it,” Mrs. Macedo says. Some trips, such as her journey to Sicily, were handed to her. The others, like her four trips to Japan, were inspired by family affairs: Mrs. Macedo’s son Alan once worked in Japan as the head of the English Language Department.

“He married a lovely lady there, Chikako, and I have two granddaughters,” Mrs. Macedo says. Alan’s sister Kathy—and Consuelo’s travel companion extraordinaire still lives in Fresno. “She is married to Tod, and he, as well as the couple’s son and daughter, add Norwegian-German flavor to the family mini United Nations mix.

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Mrs. Macedo says. “Because my eighth grade teacher recognized my talent to write, I was always encouraged to develop that skill.

Cooking and writing about it was an inevitable combination, and has come full circle now to find me in the role of a freelance writer and photographer,” she adds.

Today, Mrs. Macedo continues with her writing, cooking, gardening, traveling—and helping others. The next trip—to Costa Rica—is already planned. And the next big event she is helping to organize— Cambria Celebration of Authors—promises to become a spectacular showcase of authors of fiction and nonfiction who live in and write about Cambria.

Penny Church, Mrs. Macedo’s colleague at the Historical Society, confirms that the organizers are dedicated to making this July 2 event a success. “So many people wrote about Cambria, and now we’ll have an exciting opportunity to bring them together,” Mrs. Macedo says. “We’ll have 25 published authors participating in this celebration. It will be a historic event.”

“After Richard died in 2010, several friends asked if I would move back home, Mrs. Macedo comments. “My reaction was: I am at home, here in Cambria, in the house which Richard built for me.” In this house, Richard’s legacy will live—through the work of Consuelo.

To learn more about Cambria Historical Society, visit: www.cambriahistoricalsociety.com or www.facebook/cambriahistoricalsociety. com; to learn about Cambria Celebration of Authors, see: www.cambria-authors.com.

During her travels, Mrs. Macedo prefers to visit with the locals, tour museums, churches and the historical sites. “I indulge in my interest in geography, geology and topography, and make an attempt to use at least the courtesies in the local language,” she says.

“I’m also sampling the local fare, all in the name of research, of course,” she jokes. “Both my parents were excellent cooks, and I took over that duty when I graduated from high school and mom went to work,”

Kitchen Tour with chef Jeanne Brodie.

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HOME/OUTDOOR

history—July is National Ice cream month

the cold hard facts about ice cream

By Carole Christman Koch

A

s summer heats up, many Americans are settling down to bowls of ice cream at home, or springing for a cone at the baseball park. But, we have to thank President Ronald Reagan, who, in 1984, designated July as National Ice Cream Month and July 15th as National Ice Cream Day.

Anyone who has wondered about the origins of this delicious treat may be surprised to learn that, even though ice cream was popularized in the United States—and even though Americans produce and consume more ice cream than any other people in the world—the product did not originate here. Ices evolved through many centuries and in many countries in Asia and Europe.

The first known record of water ices is from the rule of Nero Claudius Caesar (A.D. 54-68). Caesar sent swift runners to the Apennine Mountains to bring back snow that was flavored with honey, juices and fruit pulp.

Other early evidence of ice cream is found in China during the Tang Dynasty (A.D. 618-907). The dish kumiss (milk heated, fermented, then packed in ice) was enjoyed immensely by the nobility. The Chinese became more adept in frozen dishes. During the Mongol Dynasty (A.D. 1216-1294), Kublai Khan enjoyed his juice with some fruit pulp, combined with snow or added to iced milk in his palace, while vendors sold a variety of iced desserts on the streets.

No one knows when the endothermic effect of using salt to make water cold first appeared in history. Egyptians are known to have evaporated water in shallow pits at night. And the endothermic idea is first documented by the Arab historian of medicine, Ibn Abu Usaybi’a (A.D. 1203-1270).

Some historians credit Marco Polo (1254-1324) as having brought back recipes for milk and fruit ices that became popular in Venice and throughout Italy. However, this is among a number of episodes in the history of ice cream considered by experts to be myths.

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Water ices were mainly enjoyed by the elite of Italy, France and Spain (and known as eaux glasees) until 1660, when Francesco dei Coltelli Procopio, a Paris café owner, made ice cream available for the masses.

He contrived a special churn for the manufacture of ices.

JUST LIKE HOME

Although water ices were popular in Italy, Spain and France, ice cream recipes started to appear in 18th century English cookbooks. By the 18th century, ice cream appeared in countries throughout Europe.

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Johnson. That innovation helped the production of the tasty dessert treat immensely.

The introduction of soda fountains in 1825 (in Philadelphia by Frenchman Elias Durand), was another boost to the ice cream industry. The soda fountain, where ice cream and drinks were served, was a great place to socialize. Jacob Fussell, a Baltimore milk dealer, took advantage of the popularity of ice cream in 1851 by being the first to open a plant. Other entrepreneurs followed suit and, with refrigerated railway trucks in 1888 and other modernizations, ice cream was available almost everywhere in the United States.

The early American colonists brought with them the European taste for ice cream. In 1700, Maryland Governor Thomas Bladen was serving ice cream to his guests. President George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were fond of ice cream, too. Jefferson learned to make ice cream during his visits to France.

By the end of the 18th century, ice cream houses were created. Philadelphia was considered the “ice cream capital” because of the quantity of ice cream produced there. Ice creams were often called “Italian ice creams” because many shops were run by Italian immigrants.

Ice cream was an expensive dish available to only the privileged few until the early 19th century, when insulated icehouses were created. Blocks of river ice were stored in layers of sawdust, making it available all summer. Before this, ice cream was made in freezers by whipping the ingredients and shaking them in a pot of salt and ice. The first hand-cranked freezer was invented in 1846 by Nancy

By 1919, Americans were eating 150 million gallons of ice cream annually. Sales suffered during the Depression, but during World War II, ice cream was considered an essential food for the morale of troops.

And once the war rationing on dairy products ended, Americans were consuming 20 quarts per person each year.

By the 1950s, soda fountains and parlors in drugstores became outdated when ice cream could be bought in supermarkets. Today, some 1.53 billion gallons of ice cream are produced each year in the United States.

That would make one big bowlful!

I scream, you scream We all scream for ice cream!

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HOME/OUTDOOR

Saving strokes rehabilitation through golf

By Ruth Starr

S

aving strokes on a golf course is the goal of every golfer. It’s one of the few sports where the lowest score wins. However, for those who have survived a stroke, every improvement added is a win. Combine the two and you have Saving Strokes through golf. This is an annual event that has taken place at Laguna Lake Golf Course in San Luis Obispo for the past five years straight. Shannon Downing, Director of Marketing at Sierra Vista Hospital in San Luis Obispo, is one of the facilitators.

Saving strokes encourages stroke survivors to participate in rehabilitation through golf. It is designed for all levels of stroke recovery, and no previous golf experience is required. There is a special focus on teaching techniques that help coordination and strength. In an engaging environment, it is great fun for the people who participate in this program.

The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association together sponsor the event with Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center underwriting the program by providing the funds. Saving Strokes is a nation-wide program since its inception five years ago.

Jennifer Halldorson is the program director from the American Heart Association. She is in charge of finding golf courses that would

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be most appropriate for the participants. Billy Gibbs is the golf professional who has helped the groups throughout the years. He helps facilitate the games for the participants. It has been a successful program growing in numbers each year.

Five years ago, at the first event, an older woman who had a stroke showed up. She said she didn’t want to play golf but wanted to start a stroke support group. She was talking to many of the people at the event when she met up with Shannon. Shannon liked what she heard and together they worked on getting the stroke support group organized. Shannon told the woman that there was an auditorium that could be used at Sierra Vista. She would produce a flyer and provide doctors, nurses and therapists as speakers. The group con-

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having a wonderful time. His wife was ecstatic saying it was the first time she had gotten him out of the house to do anything.

Since that time, he has been one of the champions of this event over the years. His development was tremendously inspiring to Shannon and the physical therapists, encouraging them to continue the program every year. They see similar people each year who come alive during this special day of socialization, inspiration, and motivation.

Shannon explains that at first it is difficult to convince people to come. They say they don’t play golf, they are not interested, and they are depressed. However, once she can get them to the Saving Strokes event, they realize the value and enjoyment. Soon after they are expressing their gratitude and looking forward to participating in the next event.

Saving Strokes golf is the one day where all golfers are on par. tinues today to be a success. It is called Hope for Stroke. They meet the third Monday of each month from 1-2 pm at the Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center Auditorium, 1010 Murray Ave, SLO. Many of the golfers find out about the Saving Strokes golf event from attending the support group. When patients are discharged from the hospital throughout the year, they are given a flyer for the event. Additionally, Shannon does local advertising to promote the events.

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When the participants arrive at the golf course, the golf professionals and facilitators from the hospital divide the group in two. Half of the group stays on the driving range and half go over to the putting green.

The people on the driving range stay there for half an hour working with the helper professionals on golf ball driving techniques.

There are people who can only use one arm.

Some stay in their wheelchairs and hit from that position. The event welcomes all levels of skill. Some people have never played golf in their lives while some were avid golfers during their previous years. Games are created for the other half on the putting green.

A few folks arrive in their wheelchairs just to enjoy the day. At the half hour mark, the groups switch places. After the program they are treated to a heart healthy lunch by Sierra Vista where they can also socialize.

A story Shannon loves to relate happened the first year they produced Saving Strokes.

A gentleman arrived with his wife. He didn’t want to be there. He said his wife dragged him to the event. Athletic looking, he was probably in his 50s. Slowly he started playing a little bit, loosening up, talking a bit more and by the end of the day his whole demeanor had changed. He was smiling, socializing, telling his story to people and

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HOME/OUTDOOR

at the market

Savory Galettes (Crepes) with seasonal greens, ham and cheddar

By Sarah Hedger

J

uly is a great time of year to visit the markets as they are full of summer abundance, with no shortage of options to want to incorporate into some light, summer fare. Aside from summer fruits, including raspberries, blackberries, peaches, apricots, cherries. There are so many tomatoes, summer squash, peppers, and fresh herbs, to choose from. There also is the melon family, including cantaloupe, dry-farmed watermelons, honeydew ... the list goes on and on. Even some early season apples to be found!

This month’s recipe is a great one to have on hand year-round as the fillings for it can easily be adapted to whatever tastes best, in season. A traditional galette hails from Brittany, France, and is easily found around the countryside, served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is usually made from buckwheat flour, lending it a slightly nutty flavor, but still light enough to not distract from the delicious filling.

The savory Breton galette, is similar to its paper-thin cousin, being sweet crepes, also found around the French countryside, filled with Nutella, which I’m pretty sure would be good enough to be consumed for anyone’s last meal. I was lucky enough to visit the French alps last summer and sampled as many of the savory crepes as I could get my hands on. They make for a great tasting, well-rounded, light meal with a seasonal salad on the side. Perfection! After returning home and being (very!) inspired to continue my newly founded, galette-eating ways, I realized they tasted the same whether I used milk in the batter or water, and being I usually didn’t have milk on hand, water it was!

Sometimes the meal would digress to using up the leftover batter for naughty, sweet crepes of some kind. Such a treat!

The batter can be made the night before, or kept for a day or so in the fridge, making an easy meal even easier. The seasonal green component can consist of fresh or sauteed spinach, kale, chard, or watercress, as well as avocados, leeks, mushrooms, or any combination of the above. Fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, J U L Y

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Savory Galettes (Crepes) with seasonal greens, Ham and Cheddar Makes 3 large galettes/crepes For the galettes: 3 eggs, whisked well + 3 whole eggs ½ cup buckwheat flour (or 3T almond flour + 2T tapioca starch for a grain free version) ½ tsp of sea salt ¼ +cup water Butter, avocado, or olive oil for the pan 3-4 slices free range, nitrate free ham Seasonal greens such as spinach, arugula, avocado, or watercress, dressed in a squeeze of lemon+olive oil+pinch of salt 1 cup good cheddar, grated Fresh grated pepper and a splash of good quality olive oil

or parsley would be amazing as well. The galettes can easily have the ham omitted as a vegetarian option, however if you are a carnivore, nitrate-free ham (or bacon for that matter) is quite a treat. And, lastly the cheese component can easily be adjusted, depending on what type of cheese you like. Gruyere (a swiss), is a more traditional cheese to use, however a fresh chevre, or aged cheddar would be amazing. I imagine, once apple season rolls around, thinly sliced apples with cheddar would be a delicious filling, and one I look forward to trying! Buckwheat flour is easy to find these days and worth seeking out a fresh one, if possible.

It is easily forgotten that, similar to coffee beans and spices, once a flour is milled, it starts degrading and losing its original flavor.

I have lately discovered the benefits of using freshly ground flours as their flavor contributes one of freshness, and the real flavor of the grain shines. Buckwheat is a great gluten-free flour to use and while it unfortunately has been misnamed its whole life, for many thinking it is in the wheat family, it is actually in the rhubarb family, sans wheat. That said, I included an option if you want to make the galettes sans grains, by substituting almond and tapioca flour in for the buckwheat. While it won’t have the same nutty flavor, it still makes for a great tasting galette!

Thus, enjoy your seasonal galette, and pretend you are in the lovely French countryside!

Enjoy your summer!

Place 3 whisked eggs in a good bowl and add flour component, salt, and water. Let sit for 5 minutes for flour to absorb liquid. Whisk again and if too thick, whisk in a little more water, until batter has a runny, pancake consistency (the thinner the batter, the thinner the galettes, and this is a good thing!).

Preheat large skillet over medium high heat and lightly brush with butter or oil. Once hot, ladle 1 scoop of batter, holding the pan and tilting to evenly coat the pan as thin as possible. Return to heat and crack one of the whole eggs in the center of the galette. Spread cheese, ham and greens around egg yolk. With a large, straight-edge spatula, fold each quarter of the galette in, framing the yolk. Place a lid over the pan and turn off heat, leaving for a couple minutes to just cook the yolk. Remove from pan and repeat. Serve with more greens on top, a drizzle of olive oil, and some fresh ground pepper.

Enjoy!

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COMMUNITY

rotary club of slo dedicates new stage at dallidet adobe and gardens

By Eva Ulz

T

he Rotary Club of San Luis Obispo has just completed the construction of a much-needed new stage at the Dallidet Adobe and Gardens. This beautiful new addition with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception was held on Monday, June 20th. The whole community was invited to this free event.

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The stage project was managed and staffed by Rotarians—with help from Cal Poly construction management students—and funded through the generosity of the Rotary Club. Based on a design by past History Center president Chuck Crotser, the redwood beams echo the wooden porch of the historic Dallidet Adobe. The stage

COMMUNITY

will provide a beautiful (and safe) backdrop for concerts, educational programs, and weddings at the Dallidet property for generations to come.

This is not the first time that SLO Rotary’s extraordinary community service has benefited the Dallidet property. The club helped to replace the adobe’s roof several decades ago. We look forward to celebrating their latest benefaction on behalf of the History Center’s board, staff, volunteers, and members, as well as the community at large.

the preservation, understanding and appreciation of history in and around San Luis Obispo County.

On the web: http://historycenterslo.org Rotary Club of San Luis Obispo received its charter in 1923. Today the club boasts more than 100 members and is a major force for good around San Luis Obispo and the world.

On the web: http://www.slorotary.org/

POWER TO GET THE JOB DONE

The Dallidet Adobe was built around 1856 by Pierre Hypolite Dallidet, a French emigre and pioneering vintner of the Central Coast. It was donated to the History Center in 1953 by Pierre’s youngest son, Paul Dallidet, in memory of his family and their role in the development of San Luis Obispo. The property is also a California State Historical Landmark. Today, the Dallidet Adobe and Gardens are a hidden historic gem.

Tours of the house are available on Fridays and Sundays from March through November. Educational programs take place throughout the season and the property is also available to rent for private events.

History Center of San Luis Obispo County is a regional center promoting

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celebrations

2016 Festival Mozaic free community events for july

By Bettina Swigger “Many of our survey respondents indicated that they would like to attend more free, daytime events taking place in venues around the County,” said Festival Mozaic Executive Director Bettina Swigger.

“While it’s not possible to lower ticket prices for all of our events, we got creative and came up with what we hope becomes an annual tradition: the Midday Mini-Concerts.”

“Our Festival is a highly sought-after destination for top level musicians,” said Music Director Scott Yoo. “Through our new Midday Mini-Concerts, we hope to introduce new audiences to these incredible artists.”

The series sponsor for the Free Community Events of the 2016 Festival Mozaic Summer Festival is Community Health Centers. The Midday Mini-Concerts are sponsored by a supplemental grant from the Hind Foundation. Additional support for the Master Classes and Open Rehearsals is provided by Rabobank and the Handler & Steiner Family Fund at the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County. Promotional costs for the Mozart in the Mission Live Video Simulcast are provided in part by the City of San Luis Obispo Promotional Coordinating Committee Grants in Aid program.

The Summer Festival includes Orchestral & Chamber Music Performances, Fringe Concerts, Notable Encounters, Culinary & Wine events, and more. Learn more about these events at http://www.festivalmozaic.com/free-community-events. To view videos of past Festival Mozaic performances, visit www.YouTube.com/FestivalMozaic FestivalMozaic.com Conductor and Music Director, Scott Yoo

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s Festival Mozaic embarks on its 46th annual Summer Music Festival, the venerable organization announces a suite of free community events taking place in San Luis Obispo County, including a new Midday Mini-Concert series. During this summer’s season, July 13-24, the festival is expanding its free options for attendees to enjoy the world-class music performed by the 70 visiting artists who will be in residence.

Festival Mozaic plays the dual role of promoting cultural tourism and increasing local community engagement in the performing arts. The Festival intends to expand its offerings to bring in a wider and diverse audience to our performances, county-wide.

In addition to Free Open Rehearsals (led by Festival Orchestra Conductor and Music Director Scott Yoo) and Master Classes (in which San Luis Obispo Youth Symphony students are given free instruction by the Festival’s professional musicians, in a public setting), 2016 marks the first year of a new series of Midday Mini-Concerts and a Video Simulcast of the annual Mozart in the Mission concert, which will take place in Mission Plaza in downtown San Luis Obispo on Wednesday, July 20.

Festival organizers implemented these new features in response to a need identified by the community through audience surveys.

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paso robles city library presents

senior center art group

By Angelica Fortin, City Librarian

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he Paso Robles City Library’s summer of art kicks off in June with landscapes, florals, animals, still-life, and abstracts by the Senior Center Art Group.

This group of artists meets at the Paso Robles Senior Center to paint, share techniques, tips, and creative ideas, and to have a great artsy time with watercolors, pastels, colored pencils, and oils. And don’t miss the colorful collages of Hart Junge in the display case.

July and August offer the works of local photographers Russ Surber, in July, and Dean Crawford, Jr., in August. After a professional career that kept him abroad, Surber and his wife, Denise, returned to the area, settling in Paso Robles. Surber tries to capture the grandeur and majesty of the west in his images, especially the natural beauty of the Central Coast. Crawford teaches digital photography for the City of Paso Robles and rides motorcycles in

Russ Surber

the countryside in search of that great landscape image.

The Paso Robles City Library is located at 1000 Spring Street and is open Monday – Friday 10-8, and Saturday 10-5. For more information on library programs and events, please call 237-3870 or visit www.prcity.com/library.

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beat the heat without hurting your wallet the empower program can help thermostat setting about 4 degrees without a reduction in comfort.

However, fans cool people, not rooms. Make sure to turn the fan off when you leave the room.

Open windows at night

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emperatures are on the rise and summer is just around the corner. But you won’t have to keep your home’s air conditioning unit cranked up throughout the coming months just to stay cool. In fact, with a few tips from the County’s emPower program, you’ll be able to beat the heat, all while conserving energy and creating a more comfortable and healthier home.

Seal leaks Plugging up the cracks in your home is an important step in improving energy efficiency. Small crevices and gaps often found in or around windows, doors and walls can add up to a hula-hoop size hole in a home, allowing warm air and allergens to slip into the home. You can grab a caulking gun to seal some yourself, but to get them all—including the ones you can’t see—emPower can help connect you with a qualified local contractor.

Replace or seal forced air ducts

For those cool nights, you can save some energy by shutting off the air conditioner and leaving a window open while you sleep. When you wake up in the morning, shut the windows and blinds to keep the cool air inside.

Light homes with LEDs Replacing old incandescent lightbulbs with light-emitting diodes (LEDs), will not only save energy but will also help keep the home cooler. Only about 10 to 15 percent of the electricity that incandescent lights consume results in light—the rest is turned into heat. LEDs also use 70-90 percent less energy and can last 25 times longer, so you won’t have to replace them as often.

Small changes can go a long way toward making your home healthier and more comfortable this summer. And there’s plenty emPower can do to help if you’re interested in tackling a bigger project. You can sign up for a free home energy site visit from an emPower Energy Coach for help identifying issues like leaky ducts, drafty windows and poorly installed insulation.

It’s OK to switch on your air conditioner now and then when it’s really cooking outside, but you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the most out of the energy you use. Making sure your ducts are properly sealed, insulated and installed can improve the efficiency of a central air conditioning unit by 20 percent. You can start by sealing and connecting seems with mastic duct sealant or metal-backed tape. A qualified contractor can help you take the project further.

emPower can also connect you with local contractors who are well qualified to take care of these troubles and can make a project like installing a new air conditioner a breeze, figuratively and literally. emPower can also lend you a hand in obtaining utility incentives and low-interest unsecured financing. For more, visit www.empowersbc.org.

Replace AC unit with an energy efficient one

The emPower program offers voluntary incentives, financing and other services to help single-family homeowners in Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo Counties make home energy upgrades easier and more affordable. emPower was originally established by Santa Barbara County to help the community preserve the environment by helping to lower energy consumption and stimulate the economy by creating jobs through innovative, voluntary solutions to support a sustainable building performance market.

It may also be time to upgrade to a new ENERGY STAR certified central air conditioner. Replacing that old AC unit you’ve been using since the ‘80s could cut your cooling bill in half.

Use a ceiling fan Using an ENERGY STAR ceiling fan will allow you to raise the

We are working on the August issue NOW!

Journal PLUS MAGAZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST

slojournal.com for Advertising Information J U L Y

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About emPower Central Coast

emPower is funded by California utility ratepayers and administered

by Southern California Gas Company, Southern California Edison Company and Pacific Gas and Electric Company under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission, the US Department of Energy Better Buildings program and the California Energy Commission with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act dollars. emPower’s low cost financing is offered in partnership with Coast Hills Credit Union and Ventura County Credit Union. More information at www.empowersbc.org.

32nd annual

renaissance festival 2016

By Rick Smith

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the village of Tilbury. Festival organizers will spend the week before the festival turning the forest into a village, complete with soaring watch towers, village walls, four stages, banners, shields and buildings to emulate a village in Renaissance England. Public parking this year is in front of the village, inside Laguna Lake Park.

Due to the drought, Laguna Lake was dry last summer, Smith explains.

“Now, thank goodness, it is full of water again and we’re going to imagine that it is the English Channel. The scenario during faire is the anticipation of the coming assault by the ill-fated Spanish Armada. Our Queen Elizabeth will be there to rouse her troops to repel the invasion with the famous Tilbury speech. We have German Mercenaries and English soldiers who will make this a stunning spectacle,” he says.

Vendor coordinator, Sherry Scott, says that there will be a variety of food and beverage vendors with many appetizing food options, along with beer, ale, wine and mead. “We’ll have over 60 vendors offering costumes, crafts, and artwork.” She explains that shopping at the festival will be a unique experience as the vendors are selling wares that could have existed in England in the late 1500s. While costumes are not required of festival guests, she explains, should they wish to get into the spirit, there are vendors who can help them with everything from period hats to shoes and anything in between. “Participants wanting to be pampered can get their hair braided or get a henna tattoo. If they’re inspired by the Queen’s call to arms, they can purchase leather goods, armor, or swords, or if they’re just looking to wet their whistle in historical fashion, tankards and goblets are for sale as well.

There’s really something for everyone.”

The festival opens at 10 AM each day with a parade and ends at 6 PM with another parade. Advance tickets and more information are available at CCRenFaire.com.

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he Central Coast Renaissance Festival returns to San Luis Obispo’s Laguna Lake Park on July 16th and 17th with over 500 costumed entertainers and four stages of live entertainment.

This marks the 32nd annual event for History Revisited, the local nonprofit organization that produces the festival. Entertainment director Rick Smith of Cambria says that there are over 25 acts performing, including plays, comedy skits, juggling, singing, music, dance shows, storytelling, Shakespeare, acrobatics, a parrot act, and free flying falconry.

“It is going to be a very musical festival this year,” Smith says. “We have half a dozen music acts along with some hilarious stage shows. We’re blessed with an even greater abundance of professional talent this year.”

“Each year we strive to do something different and more exciting than the last,” Smith continues. “This year we’re making Sunday ‘Pirate Day,’ and we’ll have a pirate ship where kids can come aboard and learn swashbuckling with balloon swords.” He adds, “We also have pony rides, a juggling school, fencing lessons, archery and a magic show just for kids.” Smith says there is also a daily costume contest for children and on Sunday there’s a pirate’s treasure hunt.

Laguna Lake Park provides a beautiful setting. The enchanting forest of pine and eucalyptus trees at the far end of the park is the setting for J U L Y

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history

Cal poly: an angel enterprise Part 1

By Joe Carotenuti

A

s the nineteenth century entered its last decade, Myron Angel could look back with a great deal of pride on his life’s journey. It certainly had not been one of ease but was certainly one of accomplishments. Beginning in Oneonta, New York in 1827, even though an orphan by his teens, he took advantage of the schooling offered, found West Point beyond his abilities, and then decided to join his brother, Eugene, to seek their fortunes in the fantastic lands of the west. Gold—the elixir of so many dreams—and the bane of even more—beckoned them.

On these pages last year from July through September, Myron’s life is more fully recounted until he arrived in this mission valley to a small, rural enclave to begin the last decades of his life.

Years as a newspaper owner and editor, the compiler of the earliest history of this County and others (as well as the State of Nevada), the easterner had made his mark in the rustic community as both a man of letters and distinction. However, at 66, he was about to embark on his greatest venture—one without financial reward, but one dedicated to the future, specifically to the young. For Myron Angel was one of the rare human beings whose vision pierced into a future that he believed could be made better by those in the present. The vision was bold, rewarding and audacious, but it took both the energy of a man firmly cognizant of contemporary rules as well as an altruistic spirit to enthusiastically cast his efforts for those yet to be. In other words, Myron wanted to be a “giver” in the human ensemble; not just a “taker.”

An earlier article states he was “born to write.” It was acknowledgement of this fundamental skill that propelled his last—and greatest—accomplishment: the “creation of an institution that is destined to become prominent in the world.”

Myron Angel

Here’s the story.

It began with a visit to his hometown in 1893. There he was most impressed by the newly founded (1889) State Normal School.

This in a community he once characterized as an “unsidewalked, disorderly village.” Dedicated to the preparation of teachers, he lauded what would become the founding institution in the State University of New York. For Angel, he not only praised a “brick building of noble architecture” but more importantly, its purpose to influence “the greatest good upon the people of the village and surrounding country.”

Angel once characterized this village as “one of the most neglected places” in California struggling for recognition and progress. An institute of higher learning would be a major benefit for not only the city’s population of 3000 but the County’s 16,000 residents as well. With the tenacity born of conviction, he began an odyssey that continues to bestow benefits today from his faith in (and planning for) the future.

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Nonetheless, San Luis Obispo had little to offer.

It remained an uninspiring, isolated spot in the center of the state waiting for the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1894 from the north only and then from the south seven years later.

Municipal fervor looked to the iron links of the present; not intellectual accomplishments of the future. Angel was not deterred as the coming of the rails, he knew, would bring continuing

A Retirement Facil COMMUNITY 33

PROGRESS to the somnolent community.

What better preparation for the blessings of progress than the preparation of teachers?

Angel also knew that tomorrow’s vision required today’s dollars. Funds were needed to translate fantasy into reality. San Luis Obispo certainly had few although local support was evident. If the school was conceived in the mind of a local, its birth must be in Sacramento.

Senator Sylvester C. Smith represented both San Luis Obispo and Kern Counties and was supportive of the concept. He introduced legislation to establish a normal school in the valley, but there was little interest. Indeed, there never was going to be a normal school locally.

Of course, for Myron, the solution would come with the right combination of words.

As a Christmas Day present to the future, he pleaded for the school in the pages of the Breeze in 1896. The climate, the prospective buildings, professors, students and families would all contribute to “new blood” and progress. As if campaigning for political office, Angel fervently assured his readers a Normal School “will be the most important institution … as an aid to our fame and posterity.”

He had the right combination of words, for a committee under Angel’s leadership wrote a petition to the legislature and in mid-January 1897, Senator Smith again submitted a bill in the Senate. Unfortunately, there was also aggressive lobbying to establish a normal school in San Diego. In fact, there were already three established in Chico, San Jose, and Los Angeles with San Francisco following in two years. The pragmatic politician discussed a major revision with Angel and a new school—a polytechnic school—was born. A new bill for a different school was submitted to the Senate the next month. It was a unique bit of legislation as there were no other such institutions in the state. Angel knew “the call of San Luis Obispo at this date was in advance of the times.” But aren’t all visionaries?

However, it was intriguing enough for a legislative committee to visit the city. Even the City Council, not noted for its generosity, budgeted $100 for a reception and banquet.

Speaking at the meeting’s conclusion, Angel now pleaded for an institution that would “teach the hand as well as the head so that no young man or young woman will be set off in the world to earn their living as poorly equipped for the task as was I when I landed in San Francisco in 1849.”

Even though of supmoving m The accomplished Angel remembered a Hopes ran highthe as theprospect committee was painful episode for nearly a half a century. future, portive;you the legislature quickly passed the owe it to yourself to learn h While he was amply literate, as a young measure … and in April 1898, reality arrived livingJames in your home man, he knew little else. He vividly recalled carefree when Governor Buddown vetoed the bill.for man a December day: “I walked the streets of San He did not believe the school was necessary Francisco, penniless, ragged, and hungry.” and would increase taxation.

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H O U S E K E E P I N G · YA R D M A I N T E N A N C E · H A N D Y M A N S E R V I C E S · P E R S O N A L C A R E J U L Y

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our schools

becoming a reflective practitioner

By James J. Brescia, Ed.D. County Superintendent of Schools

“Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.” —Peter Drucker Since completing my doctorate in 2006, I have gained a great appreciation for becoming a reflective practitioner. Over the past two decades, a reflective practice has become embedded in my field from preschool education through university preparation of educational leaders. Researcher Michael Fullan (2016) describes change theory, or change knowledge, as a very powerful tool for informing systematic educational reform strategies. To involve the entire community in education reform, we must all become reflective practitioners, consider the data points, and approach facts with an open mind. If we are to provide the best education possible for our current and future students, we must honestly confront past mistakes and have the courage to accept today’s challenges.

The basic tenets of reflective practice involve pulling back from our work and asking the question, “Is what we are doing making a difference for the students we serve?” This approach relies on the belief that we can continually improve how we serve the students who enter our classrooms regardless of the individual challenges they carry.

We need to pause and create some space where we can engage our stakeholders, our institutions, our knowledge and our experiences in response to the above question. Educational leaders must step back and reflect upon the effectiveness of their work and their leadership.

What worked in the previous century, decade, year, month, or even week, may or may not function today.

Fifteen years ago, Silicon Valley was experiencing rapid changes; Enron was declaring bankruptcy and the world watched the horrific terrorist attacks on the United States. We have also seen exponential growth in many economic sectors, and welcomed new ways of thinking about how we complete daily tasks. Consider cellular phones as an example. According to the PEW Center (2015), 67% of cellular phone owners find themselves checking messages, alerts, or calls even when they do not notice their phone ringing or vibrating.

Nearly 44% of cellular phone owners have slept with their phone next to their bed because they wanted to make sure they did not miss a call or text during the night. One of the most interesting points in the study was that nearly 1/3 of all cellular phone owners indicated that they could not imagine living without their device. We need to remember that the Apple Chief, Steve Jobs, introduced the iPhone in 2007 at the MacWorld conference in San Francisco. How can so many people claim such an attachment to a device that is only nine years old and can cost hundreds of dollars per month?

Educational stakeholders need to consider how shopping, banking, personal media, social networking, Google, legal services, communication, medical services and cars have changed in the past decade because of technology. It is clear that technology is present in most aspects of our lives, and we will become increasingly more conJ U L Y

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nected in the future. Where does technology fit into our educational environment? Is technology a tool, or the new teacher? What are we going to do with this new information, the changes and human experiences that are occurring right in front of us daily? How we become reflective practitioners in such a rapidly changing world can make a Jules Vern novel challenge seem quaint. “It is certain that the inanimate objects by which you are surrounded have a direct action on the brain.” (Jules Verne) A typical university leadership program teaches that an effective leader must consider an ongoing flow of decision-making that benefits the organization. Reflective practice consists of a constant barrage of snapshots about the effectiveness of decision-making.

Reflective questions should encourage an exchange of experiences, thoughts and ideas that benefit our schools, and ultimately society as a whole. Today’s educational leaders must continually ask questions such as, “Have you ever experienced anything like this before?” “How was this different than what you expected?” “Is there something you have seen work elsewhere that might work here?” These are just a few of the questions that promote reflective practice. We should also consider that asking the questions is just the start of the process.

Productive communication strategies that include listening, clarifying, expanding and suspending judgment until decision-making is complete are critical for sustained success.

In some of the research that I have conducted over the past decade, reflective questioning has required careful crafting and a willingness to consider that change may be necessary (Brescia, 2015). Busy educators at all levels might think reflective practice is a waste of precious resources, mainly time. Similar to what an athlete or actor experiences when viewing a video of their art form, educators may find reflection clumsy and unfamiliar at first. However similar to many activities, we become more efficient and effective the more we are willing to practice. Educators can learn not only which questions to ask, but when to make reflection a tool for instructional improvement. Leaders are often expected to be decisive and react immediately, but a planned or strategic consideration may save time and money in the long run.

We can embed reflective practice in many of our daily leadership, management, and supervisory routines. Reflection can be part of any regularly scheduled event such as staff meetings, awards banquets, department meetings, or any gathering. If we take the time as professionals to consider what worked, what was learned, and what we might try next time, we will become reflective practitioners and best serve our students. Even in situations where staffs are not conveniently located in the same area or program, we can engage in thoughtful questions via electronic communications that solicit input. If the information elicited is used to continually to improve the interactions and practice of those responsible, we can promote positive changes. Richard Elmore (2004) emphasizes that educators must

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learn to do new things in “the setting in which they work,” to improve practice. Standardsbased reform by itself cannot address changing the setting in which people work.

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Reflective supervision can promote thoughtful interactions and ultimately support individual growth, both personally and professionally.

Clinical psychiatry professor, Jeree Pawl (1998) reminded the professionals in the field of early care and education to “do unto others as you would have them do unto others.” Leaders in any organization can use the power of reflection to guide educators and support them in professional growth. If our workforce is “done unto” through reflection, the practice serves as a model for how children and families are to be respected and valued in life. It is my hope that this article will spark discussion among all educational stakeholders about the power of becoming a reflective practitioner.

References Available Upon Request “Without deep reflection, one knows from daily life that one exists for other people.”

—Albert Einstein

© StatePoint Media

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Summer Fun

ACROSS 1. Tea Leoni’s “____ Secretary” 6. Red and blue states 9. *Summer sandal, e.g.

13. Ancient Greek marketplace 14. “____-a-dub-dub” 15. Royal topper 16. See-through curtain 17. Santa ____ winds 18. *Olden-day road trip assist 19. Brezhnev’s hat fur 21. *Luminescent summer catch 23. D.C. bigwig 24. Octagonal warning 25. Rejuvenating spot 28. Windshield option 30. Fall asleep 35. Bowling ball path 37. Bluish green 39. Japanese-American

40. Individual unit 41. Cry of the Alps 43. Sign of engagement 44. Levi’s fabric 46. *Halfway around links?

47. Modern support 48. Catch in a snare 50. Delivery org.

52. Renewable Energy Technology, acr.

53. Obama is in his last one 55. One of Bo Peep’s flock 57. *S’more cooker 61. *Summer movie venue 65. Tear jerker 66. Pilot’s estimate 68. “Around the World in Eighty Days” author 69. Homo homini ____ 70. Tank 71. Cereal killer 72. Ivan the Terrible, e.g.

73. Compass point between NE and E

74. City on Rhone River DOWN 1. Jim Carrey’s 1994 disguise 2. Muslim honorific 3. As opposed to talker?

4. Zones 5. *Outdoor shopping venue 6. Russian mountain range 7. *Soaked up in summer 8. Behind a stern 9. Location 10. Two quarters 11. Like family lore 12. Piece of cake 15. Saltwater game fish 20. Wholeness 22. Charge carrier 24. *Peanuts and Cracker Jack venue 25. *Slip-n-____ 26. Similar to a plate 27. With regard to, archaic 29. Vegas glow J U L Y

31. *Gardener’s turf 32. Willow twig 33. Use an ÈpÈe 34. Conflict or dispute 36. Arab chieftain 38. *It’s in your sunglasses 42. A pariah avoided by others 45. Monastic nighttime liturgy 49. P in m.p.g.

51. Office chair feature 54. “Super” Christopher 56. Each and all 57. *Summer discharge 58. Cross to bear 59. Australian palm 60. They were Fantastic 61. Romantic occurrence 62. Cogito ____ sum 63. Involved in a secret 64. *Butterfly catchers 67. *Popular summer color

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4-H – MIKAELA JENSEN

TAKING A UNIQUE APPROACH To LEADERSHIP THROUGH 4-H

By Doug Gaehle

I

t’s no secret that today’s youth feel pressure.

Pressure to excel in school, to go to college, to get a job, etc.

How they overcome those pressures is a true testament to their character. Take Santa Margarita native Mikaela Jensen for example.

Mikaela, 17, credits her enrollment in 4-H, the nation’s largest youth organization, for helping her overcome adversity and build confidence along the way. The life skills taught through 4-H helped Mikaela learn to work with others, overcome challenges and complete jobs once she started them.

Mikaela took advantage of the breadth of programs 4-H offers, from science and agriculture to business and creative arts.

“There really is something for everyone in 4-H,” said Mikaela, an 11year veteran and current president of the Santa Margarita 4-H club.

“I’ve experienced a variety of projects from engineering to community service; it really is a great program to try new things.”

While her 4-H experience has been diverse, Mikaela finds her current project, restoring an antique tractor, the most interesting.

“I have learned so much about tractors and mechanics in general,” said Mikaela, who has already spent more than 250 hours on the project since she started in May of 2015. “I feel invested in the project and determined to finish because I paid for the tractor myself.”

America needs more true leaders focused on today’s challenges, as well as the issues of tomorrow. A recent survey by National 4-H Council found that 71 percent of today’s youth view leadership as something they can practice to improve over time. But those same youth need supportive adults to help them along the way.

4-H brings a community together to grow true leaders in today’s youth—helping build confidence, teamwork, curiosity and resilience.

“My 4-H leaders have always provided me with guidance and support throughout all of my projects,” adds Mikaela. “I am excited to see the

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Cremation Care

results of my hard work when I present my project at the California Mid-State Fair in July.”

Any child can grow with 4-H, an organization that has something for every interest. But 4-H is always looking for adult volunteers and funding to help expand their reach and empower young people through doing. To find out more about helping 4-H in your area, contact your local extension office or visit 4H.org. Or, visit www.ca4hfoundation.org to make a donation to the California 4-H Foundation.

Downtown

Around

The Magazine of Downtown San Luis Obispo

July 2016

Inside: Downtown Perspec t ive Downtown B usiness Spo tlights

D o w n t o w n

P e r s p e c t i v e

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some years writing in Santa Clara he became ission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is one of involved with public transit and used his writing the oldest establishments in the area we skills to help plan transit routes and inform the know as Downtown SLO, second only to our public about their transit options. That was good Chumash population and natural environment. for a while but in the ’70s his hunger for truth I would be remiss to lose a chance to sit down lead him to the University of Santa Cruz where with Father Russell Brown as a part of my he began studying anthropology. interview series this year. Father Russ is known to many of our community members in many hile at UC Santa Cruz he began to adopt capacities and I wanted to study his perspective Dominic Tartaglia, religious studies as a focus for his interest on our community, the perspective of a pastor in Executive Director and this is where he began his path to becoming the middle of an urban center. I was amazed to a pastor.

Early in life Father Russ had not been learn of his story and how he came to be the current leader particularly religious but once he began studying all facets of our Mission. of theology he was enthralled. However, in his words, ather Russ had a lifetime of career experience before he “Religion is like language. You cannot speak language, you became ordained. When I reached out to him to explore have to speak a language.” He followed that sentiment up with the first step to his Catholic faith, “Religions are not a potential interview I was surprised when he responded really there to be studied, they are there to be participated that his first degree had been in journalism at Santa Clara in.” As a pastor he more than participates in his faith but he University and worked as a journalist. In case you don’t shares it. When asked about how serving as pastor relates know Father Russ I will clarify that one of the first things I learned about him is that he is a seeker of truth and he has to his early careers he explained that writing a news story let that guide his life. He initially studied journalism in that and preparing a homily are functionally the same thing; he pursuit of truth; it was the era of Watergate. After spending has to effectively communicate a message.

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On the Cover: Historic bells in the beautiful gardens at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa in Downtown. Photo by Mukta Naran.

presents

2016

Concerts in theplaza

July 1

July 8

Diego’s Umbrella

TROPO

Sponsor: Fatte’s Pizza

Sponsor: Jules D.

July 15

July 22

Cuesta Ridge

Tipsy Gypsies

Sponsor: Wing•Stop

Sponsor: San Luis Luggage

July 29

The Mother Corn Shuckers Sponsor: Mother’s Tavern

proudly pouring

FREE LIVE MUSIC FROM 5PM-8PM IN MISSION PLAZA, DOWNTOWN SLO • NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL • NO PETS • FOOD AND DRINK AVAILABLE • WWW.DOWNTOWNSLO.COM

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P e r s p e c t i v e

t was at age 40 that Father Russ was ordained and after two years as an administrator at Saint Patrick’s in Watsonville, he was asked to take his current position in San Luis Obispo. While he had been hoping for a position in the Santa Cruz area, he accepted the position and was immediately challenged. It was the year 2006 and at that time our city was beginning the seismic retrofit program for unreinforced buildings and he had to raise over $2 million to pay for the improvement. He remembered the feeling of a moral obligation to keep people safe but was impressed at the outpouring of support from the community. In that moment I could tell this was a point of pride for him. In fact, the Mission does not charge admission like so many others do. The Mission is completely funded on donations with a little bit of help from sales in the gift shop.

anywhere else but Downtown.

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t is at this point in our conversation that he brings up an intriguing subject, the discrepancy of the word Mission. In his perspective the word should be viewed first as a verb and a noun second. “Without the community, the Mission would not have a mission.” From his perch during mass he can see all four doors of the Mission, each one leading to a different part of the community outside of the Mission. One leads to Father Russell Brown the gardens, another to the parking Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa structure, one Downtown and yet he Mission does not charge because Father Russ sincerely another out to the plaza. The door believes that all people should be welcomed into the people use when they come and leave says a lot where they come from and where they are heading but it also says a church. “Many tourists come expecting a tour but leave lot about the fact that the Mission is a central point of our having had a spiritual experience.” In complete candor, community. he explains that operating a church in the middle of an urban environment is tough. The Mission contends with ersonally, I am thankful to have met Father Russell costs of the location such as limited parking, road closures Brown to understand his perspective in our community. and the events in the plaza. When pressed further on that relationship and whether that is a strain or not, Father Russ explains that he thinks that the Mission would be lonely Continued on next page

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Continued from previous page

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ur conversation meandered across other topics ranging from homelessness surrounding the Mission, briefly touched on politics and the wonderful ability of this town to set aside personal differences to come together for the common good. Several themes stayed present and caused

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me to walk away from that interview with a fondness for such a great man. He always relates back to his pursuit for truth, working toward the common good and community involvement. In our current state of politicians and leaders with questionable intentions and unacceptable tweets, it was refreshing to see that we have a man like Father Russ preaching the things most important to preserving humanity.

B u s i n e s s

Campbell Warburton Law

Bob Gundert, Attorney and Shareholder 1075 Court Street, Suite 203 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 592-2882 (408) 295-7701 Ext. 16 CampbellWarburton.com

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ob Gundert is one of four attorneys who make up the Campbell Warburton Law Firm, which opened an office in San Luis Obispo in September 2015. The firm was first established in the 1920s in San Jose, California. Having been founded over 90 years ago, the firm is considered the second oldest law firm in San Jose. With over 125 years of combined experience, the firm's four attorneys have a good mix of practices that include business and estate planning, mediation services, personal injury and general civil litigation. Bob reports that the firm's attorneys and staff are very good to work with and truly care about their clients.

S p o t l i g h t

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ob is a UC Berkeley graduate who joined the firm in 1981 as a law clerk and then began working in 1982 as an attorney. In 1988, Bob left the firm and moved to San Luis Obispo where he lived for 20 years and raised his five children. Later in 2012, Bob rejoined the firm and was inspired to open an office on 1075 Court Street in Downtown San Luis Obispo.

From left to right: Nick Pastore, Bob Gundert, Bob Zelenka and Mike Fitzsimmons

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ob says he enjoys having the office in San Luis Obispo because he loves running into people he knows.

"The office is in the heart of everything," says Bob. He also mentioned how, funny enough, both of Campbell Warburton's offices have been located above Peet's Coffee.

Written By: Julia Tettamanzi

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hen moving to San Luis Obispo, Jim had to take several factors into consideration when working on his landscape designs. The mild climate and the lack of water made it essential for creating efficient designs that would conserve water. Today, water conservation is at the heart of his designs.

Summers/Murphy & Partners, INC. James Burrows, Landscape Architect 979 Osos Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-439-3209 www.SMPInc.net

"I

always missed working Downtown," says Jim Burrows. Jim is a landscape architect who works at 979 Osos Street, a handsome brick building built in the 1890s. He says working Downtown was important when choosing an office for himself.

He used to work near Tank Farm Road, but missed the vibrant enthusiasm of the Downtown community.

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ow, working Downtown, Jim says he is much happier. Every day Jim walks to work, makes his way up the building's light blue carpet staircase to his cozy corner office. Natural light shines in onto the rough red brick walls that line Jim's office.

Although Jim works alone here in San Luis Obispo, he is part of a larger team of 30 landscape architects that make up Summers/ Murphy & Partners.

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im is originally from Dana Point, where Summers/Murphy & Partners is located. He attended a junior college his first year and that is when he began working for the firm. He later transferred to Cal Poly and, throughout college, Jim continued to return to the firm, working during summer and winter breaks.

After graduation Jim returned to Dana Point to work with Summers/Murphy & Partners. However, Jim could not stay away from San Luis Obispo so in 1995 he and his wife, Terry, returned to SLO where he adapted new landscape architecture practices.

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n addition to water conservation, Jim says the firm prides itself on creativity and attention to detail. Evidently, it has not gone unnoticed in our Downtown community because the San Luis Obispo Downtown Association granted the Old Mission School Annex one of its Beautification Awards for New Construction Excellence. Jim assisted in this new construction by creating the landscape design for the school.

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n part, work such as the collaboration with the Old Mission School Annex construction team is what inspired Jim to work in landscape architecture. "I like to be a collaborative member of a design team," says Jim.

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elebrating his one-year anniversary of rejoining Summers/ Murphy & Partners, Jim's goal is to continue to grow the office and provide high-quality landscape architecture services to the San Luis Obispo community.

Written By: Julia Tettamanzi

COMMUNITY

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the greatest athletes on the central coast

By Dr. Don Morris

Editor’s note: The reader response to the question “Who are the Greatest Athletes in the history of the Central Coast?” has been overwhelming. More than 100 nominations have been received from readers from Ventura to Salinas and almost all the high schools and various sports were represented. (Many of the nominations were about central coast men and women athletes who have gone on to compete professionally in sports like Olympic events, football, baseball, track and field, golf, boxing, ultimate fighting, tennis, kick boxing, basketball, rodeo, race-car drivers, etc). So far the following athletes have been featured: Ed Brown, Stephanie Brown Trafton, Chuck Liddell, Loren Roberts, Steve Patterson, Gene Rambo, Robin Ventura, Jordan Hasay, Chuck Estrada, Mike Larrabee, Ron Capps, Jamie Martin, Rusty Kuntz, Randall Cunningham, Jim Lonborg, Kami Craig, John Rudometkin, Ivan Huff, Chelsea Johnson, Michael Louis Bratz, Frank Minini, Scott McClain, Mel Queen, Napoleon Kaufmann, Katie Hicks, Mark Brunell, Gene Romero, Kenny Heitz and Thornton Starr Lee. Please send nominations to Dr. Morris at dmmorris@calpoly.edu.

Pat rusco Pat Rusco grew up in San Luis Obispo, attending Fremont Elementary

School (until they tore it down), Teach Elementary, and SLO Junior High (up on the hill). Pat then attended San Luis Obispo High School from 1967 to 1969 (in those days SLO High was a three-year high school). As a senior, Pat led the basketball team to the quarterfinals of CIF, losing to the eventual champions, Verbum Dei. Pat, a 6’4” guard, was the season leading scorer and rebounder, and set the SLO High single-game scoring record at 49 points, breaking the 48 point record set by Rusty Blair in the previous season. In the record setting game, versus the eventual CIF champion Atascadero Greyhounds, Pat missed his first two shots, then shot 21 of 23 from the field, finishing 21 of 25, for an 82% shooting percentage. Ironically he had a subpar free-throw shooting night, going 7 of 12. That game was played before the 3-point line was used and at least a third of his field goals were beyond that eventual line. The 49 point effort is still the school record, standing now for 47 years. Pat was named team MVP and All-CIF First Team.

Next came baseball season. Pat led the baseball team into the CIF playoffs hitting .508. Again, he was named team MVP and was All-CIF First Team as well as All-American Honorable Mention. Pat was drafted that year by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 14th round (top third).

Pat was nationally recruited for both basketball and baseball. In those days, if you signed a professional contract

in a sport, you would not be allowed to play any sport in college (this rule has changed).

Wanting to play college sports, Pat turned down the Phillies’ offer and accepted a “full-ride” scholarship to Stanford University (Pat was also Rusco pictured with Willie Mays successful academically, achieving membership in the National Honor Society and delivering the valedictory address at his high school graduation ceremony).

On the varsity basketball team, Pat started opposite shooting guard, and future ABA and NBA player, Claude Terry. Pat’s role was to defend the opponent’s best guard, to keep Claude from getting into foul trouble or fatiguing. Pat jokes that, in that role, he contributed greatly to the careers of future NBA guards (and then PAC-8 opponents) Henry Bibby (UCLA), Paul Westphal (USC), Phil Cheniere (Cal), Freddie Boyd (Oregon State), and Louie Nelson (Washington).

On the baseball field, Pat’s stats were good (career hitting just under .300, with wood bats) but since basketball season overlapped the first third of baseball season, by the time he worked his way into the starting lineup, the seasons were half complete. Anecdotally, one of Pat’s favorite memories of his baseball time at Stanford happened before a practice one day. Wheaties was filming one of their commercials at Stanford’s Sunken Diamond, featuring Willie Mays. After filming Willie hitting, while Pat and his teammates shagged balls in the outfield, the director told Willie he would like to get some film of him throwing a baserunner out at home plate, from center field. Willie said he needed to loosen up his arm. Pat jumped up, grabbed a ball, and played “catch,” and chatted with Willie Mays for about 5-10 minutes.

Pat’s baseball past also included several seasons playing for the San Luis Blues. First for Jim Zanoli (1969), then for Augie Garrido (1970-1971) (then Cal Poly’s baseball coach), and lastly for Dean Treanor (1976-1978).

After graduating from Stanford University in 1973, Pat stayed a year in the Bay Area then went to San Antonio, Texas for a year, returning to San Luis Obispo in 1975. Pat enrolled in a Cal Poly Master’s program in Guidance and Counseling and concurrently assisted in coaching the Cuesta baseball and basketball teams, while teaching a couple classes in the Physical Education department.

Pat joined the financial firm Dean Witter (now Morgan Stanley) in 1978 and worked in the San Luis Obispo branch as a financial advisor and branch manager, retiring after 36 years, in 2014. Pat was inducted into the San Luis Obispo High School Hall of Fame in 1995.

Pat married his wife Davia, soon to be 35 years ago, in 1981. They have two daughters. Pat’s athletic endeavors now are mostly social— golf, some tennis, bocce and corn hole—but he still likes to win.

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aG Rotary sponsors flag distribution to schools

The Arroyo Grande Rotary Club recently purchased and presented new US and California State flags to 13 Lucia Mar Unified School District schools. With funds raised by AG Rotary’s annual RotaryHarleyRaffle.com fundraiser, the club was able to afford to replace all the tattered flags at 12 schools and the District Office: Grover, Oceano, Dorothea Lang, Harloe, and Dana Elementary Schools, Mesa, Paulding, and Judkins Middle Schools and Arroyo Grande, Nipomo, New Tech, and Lopez High Schools.

League of SLO County’s “Operation School Bell Program,” providing new clothing to disadvantaged K-12 students; the Food Bank Coalition of SLO County’s “The Children’s Farmers Market Program,” introducing low-income children to health and nutrition education; Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundation’s “Free Visual and Performing Arts Instruction,” providing students from low-income households exposure to the arts; PathPoint’s “Project SEARCH,” giving individuals with disabilities an opportunity to gain work experience; and Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizen’s “Vial of Life Program,” aiding emergency services and facilitating proper and immediate care for incapacitated senior citizens.

Eagle scout and patriot award given

slo Elks club essay winner

At a recent meeting of the SLO Elks Club, Pacheco Elementary School student Phoebe Browning (center) was presented an award of $150.00 for her outstanding entry in the Elks Americanism Essay Contest. Presenting the award was (L to R) SLO Elks Exalted Ruler Teresa Lara, Pacheco Elementary School student Phoebe Browning and Elks Americanism Chair Gloria Smith.

community foundation gives $225,000 in grants

The Community Foundation SLO County (CFSLOCO) is pleased to announce that 30 non-profit organizations received over $225,000 from the CommUNITY Foundation Grants for 2016. The grants program supports local nonprofits in the fields of Arts and Culture; Health and Human Services, and Seniors and Persons with Disabilities. Some of this year’s recipients include: the Assistance

Lucas Castellino and his parents were present at the San Luis Obispo Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars to receive two certificates and a medal. Lucas earned an Eagle Scout Certificate and he also received the MOWW Bronze Patrick Henry award for Patriotic Endeavors.

Lucas designed and created a metal Permanent Flag Drop Box as a depository for used American Flags to be retired. The box is located the American Legion Post building in Arroyo Grande.

Pictured (L to R) Mrs. Norma Castellino, Lucas Castellino, COL Jack B. Jones, USA (Ret.) and Dean Castellino.

free senior health care screening

Screening offers health screening for adults 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 blood sugar. Counseling and referrals as needed. Please call 544-2484 ext. 1 for dates, times and locations.

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2016

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THE BULLETIN BOARD New grants manager for community foundation

The Community Foundation SLO County (CFSLOCO) is proud to welcome Len Smolburd as Grants Manager. Smolburd will be responsible for the management and coordination of the Foundations’ grants and scholarships programs. Smolburd will primarily focus on building strong relationships with the nonprofit community and administering grants programs that reflect the Foundation’s commitment to support those needs and issues across the county. The Community Foundation has supported our county with grants totaling more than $28 million. The Foundation’s assets under management have grown to more than $50 million, and provide support to all aspects of our community in perpetuity. For more information or to donate to any fund, visit The Community Foundation’s website or call (805) 543-2323.

THE haring’s lemonade stand for united way

United Way of SLO County was visited by Jack and Luke Haring of SLO, accompanied by their mother, Lindsey.

The boys dropped by to present a check with the proceeds from their lemonade stand on Los Osos Valley Road, by Laguna Middle School, which netted over $100 for United Way’s Community Impact Fund. Jack and Luke told their mom that they wanted to donate the money to United Way

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in honor Allison’s Angels, a high school club of Socially Aware Students. CEO Rick London, after shaking hands with the boys and being handed the check, told their mother, “When I worry about the future of our community, I will remember this day and think of these boys, and know that we are in good hands.” Angels for Allison is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in memory of 15-year old Allison Haramis, who was tragically killed in an automobile accident in April of 2009.

jazz vespers

Sunday, July 10 at 4pm, Jazz Vespers@FPCSLO in the historic sanctuary of SLO First Presbyterian Church. Meditative jazz piano and songs by John Knutson and his trio surround a spiritual message of hope and reassurance. Corner of Marsh & Morro. Reception follows. Donations appreciated. For more information call 540-4312 or go to fpcslo.org

help our local veterans

VA clinic in San Luis is asking for volunteers to serve our Veterans as shuttle drivers. To help pay tribute and express your appreciation for their service, learn about volunteering at your local VA clinic. For more information contact your local VA volunteer representative Mr. Larry Foster at 805-354-6004 or send an email to Lawrence.Foster@va.gov.

C rossword S O L U T I O N S

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CASA Volunteer ceremony

Vista Volunteer Auxiliary boasts more than 100 volunteers doing everything from running the gift shop, to greeting visitors at the front desk to cuddling babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Last year, the Volunteers contributed more than 23,000 hours to the hospital.

two new directors for jack’s helping hand

The honorable Linda Hurst swore in 14 CASA volunteers in a special ceremony at the Paso Robles Courthouse. These volunteers will soon be assigned as Advocates for abused and neglected children specifically in Northern SLO County. This is the first training class funded by CASA’s collaboration with must! Charities, which awarded CASA of San Luis Obispo County more than $250,000 to serve the county’s northern region. For more information on CASA see www.slocasa.org.

Local nonprofit Jack’s Helping Hand (JHH) is expanding its board of directors with the addition of two board members, Christopher Hulburd, M.D. (left) of Pacific Eye and Russ Lovell of International Operator Service Telecom (IOS Telecom) and RVPlusYou.com.

Dr. Hulburd and Lovell will bring years of experience in diverse backgrounds to the JHH Board of Directors to help broaden the vision for the nonprofit. Jack’s Helping Hand provides assistance and programs to children with cancer and special needs under the age of 21 in SLO County.

artists & sponsors needed for homeless

district 17 small business of the year

Splash Cafe Owner Joanne Currie with California State Senator William Monning (D-17) receiving the 2016 Small Business of the Year for District 17. Splash Cafe was one of only 80 California businesses out of 3.3 million businesses statewide to be honored at a reception recently in Sacramento.

svmc award $15,500 in donations/scholarships

The Volunteer Auxiliary at Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center has awarded $15,500 in donations and scholarships to 16 local nonprofit organizations. The awards included: $3,000: Cuesta College Foundation Nursing Program Book Grants; Cal Poly Endowment Fund. $1,500: Cuesta College Foundation Student Scholarships; Cuesta College Foundation Eleanor Sears Endowment Fund. $1,000: SLO Noor Foundation; Student Scholarship to student volunteer Julia Stohr. $500: American Cancer Society Walk; Hospice Partners of the Central Coast; Meals on Wheels SLO; Meals on Wheels. Five Cities; Prado Day Center; Transitions Mental Health Association; SLO County YMCA. $250: Hospice of SLO County; Senior Nutrition Program. Founded in 1974 with 12 volunteers, today the Sierra

We are working on the August issue NOW!

Journal PLUS MAGAZINE OF THE CENTRAL COAST

slojournal.com for Advertising Information J U L Y

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5 Cities Homeless Coalition staff and volunteers are busy planning the fifth annual Empty Bowls Community Luncheon to benefit those facing homelessness and poverty in southern SLO County. The 2016 event is scheduled Thursday, September 22, and will again be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Arroyo Grande. Event planners say they need some extra help this year, however – from artists willing to create the empty bowls that are filled during the event with delicious soups provided by local restaurants, and from businesses and individuals who through sponsorships want to show they care. More than 600 bowls are needed for those expected to attend. Ticket-buyers, who pay $25, get to keep the hand-crafted works of art after they enjoy their meal. Businesses and individuals who are interested in helping promote the event have a range of sponsorship levels to choose from, beginning at just $100. Last year’s Empty Bowls Community Luncheon raised more than $28,000, and event planners are hoping to surpass the $30,000 mark this year. To volunteer to make empty bowls, or to help sponsor the event, contact Charlotte Alexander at 805-574-1638.

THE BULLETIN BOARD $8000 grant for transitions mental health

Transitions-Mental Health Association (TMHA) has received an $8,000 grant from The Community Foundation SLO County (CFSLOCO). This grant will be used toward SLO Hotline, an American Association of Suicidology accredited 24-hour, free and confidential call center serving the entire county. The program is devoted to calls that are categorized as suicide prevention, mental health crisis management, mental health information, education and referral, and stigma reduction. Hotline can be reached at 783-0607.

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cuesta student receives $1500 gas scholarship

A $1,500 SoCalGas scholarship was recently awarded to Cuesta College engineering student Gillian Stargensk. The scholarship is intended for full-time students enrolled at a community college who plan to transfer to a fouryear university. Stargensk plans to transfer to Cal Poly as a mechanical engineer major in the fall of 2017.

honor farm makes super capes for jhh

baggett stadium enhancement project

Last month the Women’s Honor Farm Sewing Program presented super capes made by the inmates to Jack’s Helping Hand. Karen Borges-Executive Director accepted the capes. This event was held at the SLO County Sheriff’s Office APS Building,in SLO. Jack’s Helping Hand (JHH) assists children with illnesses and disabilities, providing special treatment, services, equipment, and transportation that are not provided by other sources; or which exceed family financial capabilities. Sewing the capes for the children struggling with cancer has been a rewarding experience for the female inmates and has allowed them to feel connected to the community. Each super cape has been specifically designed with a child’s age and gender in mind.

Cal Poly and Dignity Health Central Coast are proud to announce their partnership on the Baggett Stadium Enhancement Project. The project includes a new two-story baseball clubhouse and permanent seating which will raise the capacity of Baggett Stadium to between 3,250 and 3,500. In recognition of Dignity Health Central Coast’s contribution to the project, the clubhouse will be named the Dignity Health Baseball Clubhouse.

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New Paso Robles branch for founders bank

Founders Community Bank recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony at their newest branch office in Paso Robles, located at 1245 Spring Street This full-service office is the latest branch for the growing San Luis Obispo-based community bank. According to Thomas J. Sherman, President & CEO of Founders Community Bank, the decision to add a location in Paso Robles was an easy one. “Consumers and small business owners demand and expect accessibility and exceptional service from their community bankers. Founders Community Bank was established exactly for this reason, so our expansion into the Paso Robles market is a natural progression for us.

sierra vista emergency dept renovation

A multiphase renovation of the Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center Emergency Department is now complete. The project, which began late last year, cost nearly $700,000 and includes new flooring, lighting, ceiling tiles, countertops, cabinetry, paint and other fixtures. New gurneys and computer workstations were also added to each exam room and the nurses’ station was updated and re-wired to better improve workflow. The emergency department remained fully operational throughout the entire five month process.

two win 25th annual history award

Two Cuesta College students earned the 2016 Frederick G. Novy History Award. This is the 25th year the Cuesta College recognition was awarded, honoring the college’s most promising history scholars.

The award recognizes and encourages history students who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in course work, exceptional research papers, grades and promise as history scholars. This year, each recipient received a certificate and cash award of nearly $600.

Kasia Crowley, a physics and science major, was selected for the award

by Cuesta College history professor Mark Weber. Studio art major Virginia Orr also received the Frederick G. Novy Award, and was described by her nominator and Cuesta College history professor Dr. Anthony Koeninger as “a fantastic student with a sterling work ethic.”

hunger IS - awards $75,000 grant to food bank

Vons and Albertson’s employees filled thousands of reusable bags with nutritious breakfast items at the Food Bank Coalition of SLO County last month to kick off the Summer Breakfast Bag Program. Each breakfast bag provides one month’s worth of wholesome breakfast items to a child in need. One out of five children in SLO County face hunger. Childhood hunger spikes during summer because children who would normally eat two of their daily meals at a free or reduced cost through their school’s cafeteria may go without these meals when school is out for their summer break. Thanks to the Hunger Is grant, the Food Bank Coalition will be able to provide more than 100,000 breakfasts for children this summer. With the help of hundreds of volunteers who pack and distribute the breakfast bags, and with our partners who include local school districts, county libraries, and nonprofit organizations, the Food Bank Coalition will deliver monthly bags of breakfast groceries county-wide to ensure this is a hunger free summer for all children in SLO County.

bb/bs honors veteran board member

3rd annual morro bay estuary poetry contest

The third annual Morro Bay Estuary Poetry Contest: A National Treasure in Words asked people to celebrate native wildlife in poems of any form, and to capture the essence of the Morro Bay estuary in haiku. 72 poets from across the county and beyond sent in 96 poems for consideration. Contest winners gathered for the celebratory reading at the Coalesce Book Store, in Morro Bay: (winners pictured left to right) Richard Immel, Ted Schade, Fiona Reams, Luke Mellom, Dylan King, Dawn Wood, and Vienna Laughlin. (Not pictured: Lani Steele.) Guest judges included current Poet Laureate, Marguerite Costigan, along with Jerry Douglas Smith, and Patty Sullivan.

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SLO residents Bryan Gingg and Carol Florence were recently recognized for their long-term commitment to Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County at a private reception held to thank agency supporters at Tolosa Winery & Vineyards. Gingg celebrated 20 years of service on the agency’s Board of Directors. In 2014, he was recognized as “Big Brother of the Year” after successfully mentoring two local youth. Carol Florence, Principal/Planner of Oasis Associates, was recognized for 10 years of dedicated service and said that she is proud to be a part of the organization which is “impacting lives Little by Little.” In the photo above, from left to right are: Big Brothers Big Sisters Board President Christie Clemons, Carol M. Florence and Executive Director Anna Boyd-Bucy.

THE BULLETIN BOARD caballeros de san luis obispo 2016 ride

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forget me not: art against alzheimer’s

In 2013, Brandon Tokunaga, whose father died of early onset Alzheimer’s, launched the first Art Against Alzheimer’s event in SLO. Each year, his own work plus the donated works of talented professional artists are sold to raise money in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Every cent of the proceeds goes to our local Alzheimer’s Association to support family members, caregivers, victims and research. This year marks the fourth year of Forget Me Not: Art Against Alzheimer’s and will be held at The Village at The Palms in SLO on Friday July 29 from 5 – 8 pm. For more information, please call 543-2300, 543-2350 or visit www.Facebook.com/ FORGETMENOTAAA

girl scouts help homeless children The Caballeros de San Luis Obispo held its annual ride over the Memorial Day weekend. This year’s ride was held on the Porter Ranch in Huasna. President Denny d’Autremont presided over the event. More than 200 riders participated in this special event.

Photo left to right, Caballero President, Denny d’Autremont, saddle winner, Mike Cummins and Caballeros board member Larry Shupnick.

SLO symphony receives foundation grant

The SLO Symphony has received a $10,000 grant from The Community Foundation SLO County (CFSLOCO). This grant will be used to add another music education program to the existing five programs, including the Youth Symphony orchestra, for the 2016-17 Season. Cadet Winds, an ensemble for beginning wind players, will be taught by Miriam Grisso.

history center receives foundation grant

The History Center of SLO County has just received a $9,000 grant from The Community Foundation SLO County (CFSLOCO) as part of their 2016 CommUnity grant cycle. These funds will support a countywide collaboration among local history groups to develop and promote guided tours at county museums and heritage sites. By centralizing the coordination, promotion, and booking of guided history tours, we can attract significantly more visitors and work more effectively with tour operators from around the state and entire western region to give tour groups (another) compelling reason to stop and stay in SLO County. In addition to increasing visitation and visibility for our heritage sites, we will also be creating sustainable revenue streams to preserve local history and improve tourism opportunities for the County and City of SLO.

Sometime this summer, a homeless child in southern SLO County will open a plain brown paper sack and find a reason to smile inside. That child—and some 300 other needy children in south SLO County—will discover treats that a local scout troop prepared for them as part of a service project to help homeless families. Members of Girl Scout Troop #40023 sold 8,978 boxes of cookies and used some of the money to buy juice boxes, fruit snacks, granola bars, pretzels and cheese sticks. These 7-, 8- and 9-year-old scouts hand-packaged these goodies into more than 300 snack packs, then added a handwritten note to each one with drawings and words of encouragement like “You are great!” and “Enjoy your snack!”

J U L Y

2016

Journal PLUS

We helped more people purchase a house in 2015 than any other lender in San Luis Obispo County.

Thank You! OPES ADVISORS

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