Lifestyles
2017
Soaring to New Heights • Homegrown Business Success • Meet the New Superintendent • Modern Moonshine • Town Hall Wedding 1
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • SPRING+SuMMER 2016
• Behind the Scenes at Dos Picos County Park
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welcome ...
Lifestyles W I N T E R 2 0 17
Ramona, Gateway to the Backcountry, offers many treasures, not least of which is its homegrown successes. In this issue of Lifestyles, Beth Edwards shares Woody Kirkman’s story. An international business success, the fifth-generation Ramonan built his business success in the town that reared him. He’s never lived anywhere else. He’s proof that one need not be a Stanford or Princeton graduate to “make it,” and living, working, and raising a family in a small town is about as good as it gets. In another Beth Edwards’ article, readers learn a bit about modern moonshine, an old craft that is making a comeback. Amanda and Paul Markham brought the distillery – and a growing business – to town. One of the two stills that Paul built is the second largest in the county. Also in this issue, readers meet Anne Staffieri, Ed.D., Ramona school district’s new superintendent. She’ll explain the five-pointed star that reflects her theme for her first year as the district’s chief executive officer, “Together We Can Make a Difference,” and she’ll share why she chose education as her career, what’s right about Ramona schools, and what challenges they face. Many in our schools find her positive outlook, readiness to listen, and dedication to remaining flexible and thinking outside the box refreshing. She encourages everyone in the district to ask themselves two questions: Why do we do it this way? How can we make it better? Who among us wouldn’t benefit from asking ourselves those questions? Through Karen Brainard’s “Soaring to New Heights” article, we learn how a movie provided Meadow Chase with the inspiration to manage Ramona and Fallbrook airports. Meadow isn’t the first female airport manager in the county, but she’s the youngest, testament to her careful planning and passion for aviation. No one could recall the last wedding that occurred in Ramona Town Hall until writer Marta Zarrella discovered and attended one for the history books. Sarah Parker-Donnelly, the great-great-great-granddaughter of Martha and Augustus Barnett, married her high school sweetheart, U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Christopher Donnelly, in the historic building in July. The Barnetts dedicated Town Hall to the people of Ramona in 1894. Zarrella shares her story and photos of this young couple’s nuptials in “Town Hall Wedding.” We all enjoy the two county parks in Ramona – Collier and Dos Picos – but what do we know about the park ranger who supervises them? Jane Engleton shares what it’s like working her dream job in “Peeking Behind the Scenes at Dos Picos.” We hope you enjoy reading the articles in this edition of Lifestyles and encourage you to support the advertisers who made it possible. We welcome suggestions for upcoming issues at editor@ramonasentinel.com or Ramona Sentinel, 850 Main St., Suite 106, Ramona, CA 92065. ~ Maureen Robertson
inside this issue ... 6 Homegrown Business Success
18 Town Hall Wedding
12 Meet the New Superintendent
22 Peeking Behind the Scenes
10 Soaring to New Heights 4
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
20 Making Modern Moonshine
President + General Manager Phyllis Pfeiffer Vice President Advertising Don Parks General Manager Ramona Sentinel Tina Tamburrino Editor Maureen Robertson Magazine Design Laura Bullock Advertising Design John Feagans, Manager Laura Bullock Maria Gastelum Bryan Ivicevic Vince Meehan Multi-media Account Executive Susan Mccormick Writers Karen Brainard Beth Edwards Marta Zarrella Photographers Karen Brainard Beth Edwards Maureen Robertson Marta Zarrella
ON THE COVER Ramona Airport Manager Meadow Chase stands by one of the many planes at the airport at the end of Montecito Road. Karen Brainard photo
850 Main St., Suite 106 Ramona, cA 92065 760-789-1350 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. www.ramonasentinel.com facebook.com/ RamonaSentinel Follow us @ramonasentinel copyright © 2017 U-T community Press. All rights reserved. No part of the contents of this publication may be reproduced in any medium, including print and electronic media, without the express written consent of U-T community Press.
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Homegrown Business Success Woodward descendent makes name for himself By beth edwards
Kirkman’s personal favorite of all his lanterns is the “Champion” lantern, which bears his name. Beth Edwards photo
Kirkman’s lanterns and periodlighting are world-renowned. If you haven’t seen his faux-flickering electric lights or beautiful oil-burning lamps, stop by his shop and watch how the light dances. Amusement parks all over the world, including Disney Parks, Legolands and Knott’s Berry Farm, along with themed restaurants and resorts from South Africa and Dubai to the Julian Gold Rush Hotel are among all who have hired Kirkman to create custom lighting fixtures. Numerous television series and more than 30 movies, including “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Indiana Jones,” “3:10 to Yuma,” “The Lone Ranger” and the 2016 western “The Magnificent Seven” have ordered from 60 to more than 200 of Kirkman’s custom lights for a film. Movie sets and live theater lightKnott’s Berry Farm’s grand indoor chandelier, pendant lights, and outdoor lanterns are part of the Calico Mine Ride area of the park. Courtesy photo ing frequently require use of plastic globes for safety purposes, or even Anyone living in Ramona has most likely heard the family name battery packs and wiring that can be concealed in actors’ sleeves “Woodward.” There’s the Guy B. Woodward Museum in the Old while they carry the flickering “old-timey” lights. Theme parks Town area, and if you were here before 1995, then you surely saw have special needs for Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant Woodward’s Feed and Supply at the corner of 10th and Main. lighting, and Kirkman’s staff of 10 accommodate these requests The grandson of the store’s owner, Woodward T. “Woody” while still adapting the lights to look authentically antique. And in Kirkman, is a fifth-generation fixture in Ramona. His son, Madi- a deserved twist, Kirkman’s lantern-making skills will be featured son, quips that his dad can’t go anywhere, not even San Diego, on television’s Science channel documentary series “How It’s without running into someone who recognizes him from his 19 Made” this year. In the documentary, Kirkman will demonstrate years of working at Woodward’s Feed and Supply. Now Kirkman the process of building a lantern from start to finish. has added his last name to the family’s legacy with his W.T. KirkThis life-long Ramona resident, a 1986 graduate of Ramona man line of lanterns, manufactured at the corner of Rotanzi Street High School, is a homegrown business success. What is his secret and Highway 67. to becoming a successful entrepreneur? Kirkman is quick to share 6
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Woodward T. “Woody” Kirkman holds one of his favorite lanterns in his international business at Rotanzi Street and Highway 67. Beth Edwards photo
“down-the-hill” job. Six months later, he willingly returned to Ramona when Bill Fox, the original owner of All About Fun RV, offered him a job where his display experience was put to use, and he hired his future wife, Dawn. He managed the parts portion of the store, even though he’d never owned an RV. Adaptation through necessity is one of Kirkman’s many strengths, along with perseverance. His transition to self-employment has been influenced by author Steve Pavlina, whose philosophy “involves creating a lifestyle that you love and a sustainable income source to fund it.” And what better lifestyle is there than working and living in Ramona? Kirkman wishes our education system would recognize that not all students wish to pursue careers that require college or leaving small towns. He believes that we need to foster the skill sets previous generations were taught — metal and woodworking, welding, electrical wiring, etc. — while adapting to evolving needs. Encourage students to use their hands and minds, and even teach them basic bygone skills, such as counting back change, he says. Kirkman’s life is dedicated to preservation and adaptation of the past. His community volunteerism has led him to a large restoration undertaking — the Ramona Town Hall — where he is the longest serving board president. And he has passed on both his and his father’s passion for trains to Madison, who has made his
many of Mark Twain’s beliefs, and as the famous author once wrote, “Some people get an education without going to college. The rest get it after they get out.” It’s about learning from your experiences. Kirkman didn’t go to college for his education. He began working at his grandfather’s hardware and grocery store at the age of 8, originally in charge of sorting glass soda bottles for recycling. In the late 1970s, he learned butchering. The hardware and feed side of the business carried everything from guns and ammo to paint, clothing, and even baby chicks — but also lanterns, their replacement parts and fuel. Kirkman eventually worked all parts of the business. His father, an electrician, taught him that trade and also instilled in him a love of lanterns and trains. One of the charming features of Woodward’s was the elevated train track Kirkman built to encircle the interior of the hardware section and to carry the miniature trains that captivated the attention of many youngsters and adults. When the family made the decision to close the store, Kirkman decided to carry on the lantern portion of the business. About this time, in 1996, the Internet was making it possible to sell such specialty items online. Through necessity, Kirkman taught himself how to build and maintain his website, LanternNet.com, and how to typeset and design his own catalogs — not to mention being self-taught in every aspect of producing lanterns, both electric and fuel-burning. When asked if he’s worked for anyone other than family, he tells of two jobs held before his lamp business, but he’s quick to state that he’s never filled out an employment application. His reputation of stocking led him to a position installing “store sets” to display nuts and bolts for numerous Home Depots — his only
This Calico Square lamp hangs outside a building in Knott’s Berry Farm. Courtesy photo
8
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
Woody Kirkman used a Drake patent from 1881 to make six Drake library lamps for the West Wing of Ramona Town Hall.
A Calico Pendant lantern at Knott’s Berry Farm.
Examples of W.T. Kirkman lanterns that light the Disneyland theme park. courtesy photos
own news with his McKeen Motor Car Cuyamaca Company restoration project. While on a recent family vacation, after driving thousands of miles in their RV (yes, Kirkman now owns one), the family was at a lantern convention, of course, when someone walked up to Madison and recognized the McKeen Motor Car logo on his shirt. The man excitedly said, “I know about that. There’s some kid who’s brought down a car from Alaska to restore!” Madison quickly took claim to the feat. And, his father says proudly, now they can’t even go out-of-state without someone recognizing this sixth-generation Ramonan. W.T. Kirkman Lanterns, Inc., located at 2291 Main St., is the only tubular oil lantern manufacturer in the U.S. Beth Edwards photo
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Soaring to New Heights Story & Photos
By KareN BraINard
Meadow Chase stands by her vehicle at Ramona Airport. The 22-year-old formed her own corporation, Chase Airport Management Inc., and won San Diego County’s five-year contract to manage the Ramona and Fallbrook airports.
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ovies aren’t purely entertainment – they can shape one’s life. For Meadow Chase, it was a 1986 film that inspired the career she launched as a teenager and that has soared in just a few years. “To be honest it all started when I watched “Top Gun” and that’s what got me interested in aviation,” says Chase, who at age 22 is contract airport manager for Ramona and Fallbrook airports. “It sounds like a very corny story but that’s what got me interested in aviation.” She also has her own corporation, Chase Airport Management, which she formed so that she could bid for the county contract to manage the two airports. For the personable and mature young woman who doesn’t let glass ceilings get in her way, reaching that point was just a matter of careful planning and climbing the ladder rungs. After watching “Top Gun,” the Escondido resident said she focused on school and networking. “Aviation can be a very difficult industry to get into. So if you make the right connections, you’ve got your foot in the door,” Chase says. She took that first step by volunteering at the Classic Rotors Museum at Ramona Airport and a door opened for her to become aircraft lineman for Chuck Hall Aviation, also at the airport. That was in 2012, the same year she received her private pilot’s license and her Bachelor of Science degree in aviation management from Southern Illinois University at just 18 years old. 10
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
Chase modestly explains she skipped eighth grade and finished high school in one year through Escondido Charter School, graduating in 2008. At 14 years old, she started Palomar College with online courses and then found that Southern Illinois University had an off-campus program at Palomar for aviation management. “For me I just love school. I love learning, so much so I can get overwhelmed by how much I want to know in such a little time. But, it’s been great. I love school, I love learning and this job itself is a learning experience every day.” With her degree earned, she became operations coordinator for Ramona and Fallbrook airports, working for Silvertree Inc., which contracted with the county. Chase subsequently took on the role of assistant airport manager. Silvertree was owned by Bo Donovan, who died in April 2012, but his wife completed the remainder of the company’s five-year contract, explains Chase. Her company, formed in May 2015, got the new five-year county contract in February 2016. “There’s quite a lot to learn about having your own business,” she says. In her role as airport manager, Chase says her duties and responsibilities vary by day. Much of her work is customer service, she notes, such as responding to noise complaints and arranging tours at the control tower. There are also airport inspections, and hosting and planning airport events such as the Ramona Air Fair and Fly In, which attracted 3,000 to 4,000 people, and the Toys for Tots Drive in December. “Every day it’s something different and I’m contractually
required to respond to any aircraft incident or accident 24/7, so … being in Escondido is perfect because you’re right in between both airports,” she says. She has two employees, George Watson, assistant airport manager, and Stu Oster, operations coordinator, who are usually at the Fallbrook Airport but are trained to also work at Ramona. “Being able to respond to aircraft accidents or incidents is a huge priority for me so I always make sure that everyone’s aware of how to respond in case, for whatever reason, I can’t do it myself,” says Chase. While she isn’t the first female airport manager in the county, Chase said she found out she is the youngest ever contracted by the county.
Ramona Airport Manager Meadow Chase talks to the control tower from her vehicle while near the runaway.
Chase says it’s the people she enjoys most in her job and credits those who have mentored and supported her. She is also grateful for the support of her family, parents Matt and Kristyn Chase, and her three siblings. “I’m still trying to get them to go flying with me. So far I’ve only gotten my dad to go flying with me,” she says, and jovially adds, “They’re all afraid of heights.” Chase doesn’t have her own plane yet but participates in Plus One Flyers, a flying club at the airport where she can rent a plane. She usually flies a two-seater taildragger, a Cesna 172 or a Piper Archer. “Every time it’s just thrilling,” she says about flying. “I feel like a kid again. It’s really neat…touch and go’s are my favorite – taking off and landing. It’s always different. There’s always something you can improve at, you can change. It’s challenging and I really, really like that.” Her short-term goals are to promote the two airports and increase community involvement. In the long term she wants to continue advancing in aviation. “I would love to continue advancing as a pilot. There are so many other certifications I can get,” says Chase. Those include instrument rating and commercial pilot certification. Aircraft isn’t the only mode of transportation the versatile 22-year-old favors. She has two street bikes, two dirt bikes, jet skis and shares a boat with her father. “I love the motorsports…and for me it’s the time I get to be away from work or anything academic,” she says.
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Meet the New Superintendent Ramona’s new school district superintendent in her office. Maureen Robertson photo
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r. Anne Staffieri, who earned her doctorate in educational leadership in 2016, joined Ramona Unified School District as superintendent in July, but she is not new to Ramona. From 2011-13 she was assistant superintendent of human resources for the district. When the school board announced her appointment, board president Kim Lasley described her as “an excellent fit for the entire community.” Just six months into her role as superintendent, she shares her background, interests and vision for Ramona schools with the community.
Background: I have been married to my husband, Russ, for 28 years and together we are the parents of four children. Our daughter, Allyson, 25, is married and teaches sixth grade in Orem, Utah. Our son, Daniel, 22, attends Brigham Young University in Utah. Our daughter, Corinne, 19, is also a BYU student, currently serving an 18-month Spanish speaking mission for our church in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Our son, Bryce, 15, is a sophomore in high school and enjoys playing football and running track. I began serving as superintendent of Ramona Unified School District on July 1, 2016. With nearly 25 years of education experience, I most recently served as the assistant superintendent of human resources in the Escondido Union High School District. A graduate of Torrey Pines High School, I have been a lifetime resident of San Diego County. My career includes positions from high school teacher to assistant superintendent in several North San Diego County school districts including Escondido Union High School District, Valley Center - Pauma Unified, and Ramona Unified. I taught Biology, AP Biology and Spanish at San Pasqual High School and Valley Center High School. In the Valley CenterPauma School District I was coordinator of alternative programs, principal of Oak Glen Alternative High School, principal of Valley Center Elementary-Upper School, and director of human resources. I have returned to Ramona Unified where I was the assistant 12
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
The Staffieri family, from left: Abram Phelon, Allyson Staffieri Phelon, Daniel Staffieri, Russ Staffieri, Anne Staffieri, Corinne Staffieri, and Bryce Staffieri. courtesy photo
superintendent of human resources from 2011-13. Throughout my educational career, I have been committed to academic excellence and continue to work diligently to ensure all students receive high quality teaching and learning. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Brigham Young University, a Master of Arts in Curriculum Development from California State University San Marcos, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Brigham Young University. When did you decide a career in education was for you? In college. I majored in biology and graduated with my bachelor’s degree, allowing me to teach biology and Spanish at the high school level. Did you ever consider a different career? Yes. During my first years in college I set out to become a physical therapist. I majored in biology and intended on entering the medical field just as my father and grandparents had done. However, during college I spent some time working as an intern in a hospital in Mexico and then in the afternoons and evenings I would teach in the schools. I found myself gravitating toward teaching and found it personally rewarding to be able to see the light go on in someone else because of an experience which I had a part in facilitating. This led me to change my career path from physical therapist to high school teacher. How have your previous experiences prepared you for your role as superintendent? I am thankful for the opportunity I have had to be in several different roles in several different school districts. I never stop learning and with each position I have grown as a leader and as an educator through varied experiences. I think every position I have held has its unique set of challenges. What I have seen as the ingredient most central to being successful is to bring people around to the challenges we are faced with. What are your responsibilities as superintendent? As the superintendent, I exercise general supervision and control over
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all aspects of district operations. Similar to that of a CEO (chief executive officer) of a business, these duties include providing strategic direction, management, external relations, review the system of instruction of all students residing in the district, and improve instruction as indicated by data; overseeing the budgetary process and making recommendations in line with the district’s strategic directions to keep the district fiscally sound. I provide an effective voice for the district with local, state, and federal agencies and will advance the influence and credibility of the district with these agencies. In addition, I work to establish an atmosphere of collaboration between the district office staff, employees and Dr. Anne Staffieri welcomes visitors to the district employee groups, students and student groups, office in the hallway near her office. as well as parents and community members so that we can work efficiently and cooperatively. Assisted by Robyn Puckett, her administrative assistant, Superintendent Anne Staffieri, Ed.D., signs a
document after a recent school board meeting. Maureen Robertson photos Have you had any surprises? Every day brings a new surprise. I am learning more and would it be? I would get rid of the COP. This is a long-term finanmore about this district and this position on a regular basis. cial burden that takes resources away from other areas.
What attracted you to Ramona? The students of Ramona Unified were what first attracted me to this district in 2011. Most recently, when the opportunity presented itself for the superintendency, my thoughts were driven to the many names and face of the employees who comprise our wonderful district. I was attracted to the thought of being able to work here again. What makes you a good fit for Ramona? My varied K-12 public school leadership experience in several districts sets me apart. In addition, the fact that I have worked in Ramona Unified recently and am familiar with the District and the people allows me to hit the ground running in this new position.
What was your reason for choosing “Together We Can Make a Difference” as the district’s theme for this year? The root of becoming great lies in our ability to work together and learn from one another, constantly looking for ways to do it better. We need to examine those things which have become “status quo” for us here in Ramona. We need to make a habit of examining our work and asking ourselves two very important questions: 1) Why do we do it this way? 2) How can we make it better? I have a high standard of excellence for Ramona, a standard which reaches across all departments and school sites. This standard is for each one of us to do our very best and try a little harder to be a little better every day.
Who is/are your role model/s and why? I cannot identify one specific individual who has been a role model for me. Many people have mentored me and been role models to me in different ways.
What advice do you have for the youth of Ramona? Stay curious about what you are learning, ask questions, set goals, establish good study habits, and get a good night’s sleep.
What’s “right” about Ramona schools? Our Instructional Focus is absolutely right. The good work that we are doing with our staff to improve the rigor and relevance of teaching and learning is setting an example for other districts across the county to see. This professional work has high value and solidifies our culture of continual improvement moving forward. Despite our long-term financial debt, we have found a way to give students access to technology in classrooms with a wide variety of digital learning tools.
What do you do in your spare time? Any spare time that I have I enjoy being with my family. I love swimming, playing tennis, playing the piano and singing in my church choir.
What challenges does the district face? We have challenges of declining enrollment. The decline has slowed this year from projections, but we have lost 1,700 students in 15 years, which equates to an ongoing loss of revenue to the district, yet we continue to operate the same quantity of schools. We are also saddled with long-term debt. The district owes approximately $25 million on a Certificate of Participation (COP) loan which was taken out long ago. Our payments are a little over $2 million a year on a 17-year note.
How would you like to be remembered? I would like to be known as someone who brings out the best in the people around me, using my talents to help everyone become better and raise the level of performance of every member in our organization. I would hope that I am known not as someone who has all the answers, but someone who has really great questions, and uses those questions along with my own intelligence to bring out the genius in the people around me. Most importantly, that our school district, Ramona Unified, is a better place because of my leadership and is known as a safe, healthy, and high-performing school district.
If you could change one thing about Ramona schools, what 14
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
What keeps you up at night? I guess it depends on the night. Something is always on my mind and the name of the game is to remain flexible, open to new ideas, think outside of the box, and don’t get easily discouraged. Working together we can be so much more than we ever can be individually.
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Town Hall Wedding
Portraits of Martha and Augustus Barnett overlook the wedding of Sarah Parker and Christopher Donnelly.
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RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
Story & Photos
By marta zarrella
On Thursday, Feb. 22, 1894, Augustus and Martha Barnett dedicated Ramona Town Hall, now listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Nuevo Sentinel quoted Augustus as saying, “I hereby present you the deed of this property, to be used forever according to the plans and purposes therein named.” (In its early days, the town of Ramona was called Nuevo. The renaming of the town is another story.) Records show that the Barnett family and community leaders saw Town Hall as home to many community events, including weddings. Though there is no record of how many weddings have taken place in the landmark at 729 Main St., and no one today seemed to remember when the last wedding was held there, the marriage of a special couple in Town Hall on July 30, 2016, is one for the history books. That is the day that Augustus and Martha Barnett’s great-great-great-granddaughter Sarah Parker married her high school sweetheart, Christopher Donnelly. No doubt, Augustus and Martha would be proud. Sarah is the daughter of Dan “Wrangler Dan” Parker, Augustus and Martha’s great-great-grandson. Sarah is a 2012 Ramona High School graduate and Christopher is a Private First Class in the U.S. Marine Corps stationed at Camp Pendleton. The two met six years ago at Ramona High School. It was Dan’s idea to hold his daughter’s wedding in Town Hall. “I pushed for the wedding to be at Town Hall for the historical nature and memory,” he says. “There are so many reasons for us to have it there. I thought it would be great if the next generation of family used the family venue. It would be great if this creates a family tradition and more memories for Ramona.” About 60 people attended the nuptials, officiated by Pastor Shirley Day of Hope Church in the Day Promenade. Pastor Shirley has been a friend to the Parker family for many years. She was there for Dan and his family when his beloved wife,
Maid of honor Lindsay Parker stands with bridesmaids Ariel Robinson, Amanda Donnelly, and Natalie Donnelly, and flower girl Dani Donnelly at the wedding.
Julie, died in October 2010 after a challenging battle with cancer. Attendants at Sarah and Christopher’s wedding were: maid of honor Lindsay Parker, sister of the bride; bridesmaids Ariel Robinson, Amanda Donnelly, and Natalie Donnelly; flower girl Dani Donnelly; ring bearer Donnie Donnelly; and groomsmen Brian Espina, Joseph Martinez, and Jake D’Amato. Woody Kirkman, president of the Town
Hall Board of Trustees, worked behind the scenes and was instrumental in organizing the historic wedding. Kirkman’s own family has roots in Ramona. He is the great-grandson of Guy B. Woodward, for whom the Guy B. Woodward Museum at 645 Main St. is named. The many generations of the Barnett family are deeply rooted in Ramona. Augustus and his son, Melancton, acquired land in the 1800s that is now known as Barnett Ranch. His son, James, married Mable Warnock of Warnock Ranch. Both attended Ramona High and kept up the Barnett Ranch. Their daughter, Elizabeth, was Sarah Parker-Donnelly’s grandmother. Town Hall has been home to many events and various uses. In the early years the building was called Barnett Town Hall and Library. The West Wing of the adobe structure served as the town library until 1939 when it moved to a building at Sixth and Main streets. Ramona Town Hall survived the wear and tear of 120-plus years of use and an arson fire in January 1995, and it still stands tall, proud, and a symbol of the
unity and community of Ramona. Perhaps the wedding of Augustus and Martha’s great-great-great-granddaughter will start a beautiful new tradition in the great halls of this historic building.
Groom Christopher Donnelly, a U.S. Marine Private First Class, awaits the arrival of his bride.
ramonadisposal.com RAMONA LIFESTYLES • WWW.RAMONASENTINEL.cOM
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Making Modern Moonshine Story & Photos
By Beth edwards
I
f the term “moonshine” makes you think of a copper still being operated in the backwoods, you’re close – but it’s legal, it’s produced in Ramona – gateway to the county’s backcountry – and it’s called San Diego Sunshine Craft Spirits. Owners Paul and Amanda Markham borrowed the “sunshine” portion of their distillery’s name from Ramona’s “Valley of the Sun” moniker. The “San Diego” part appeals to our larger county, where distilling beverages is an old craft that is making a modern comeback. San Diego Sunshine opened in February at 432 Maple St., Suite 6, in the industrial park south of Olive Street. Paul is the distiller and a retired machinist/welder who hand-built his two stills, one of which is the second largest in the county. The largest was originally part of Ballast Point, now Cutwater Spirits. Amanda works behind the tasting bar, serving up shots and using their two main spirit selections – Honey Wheat and Blueberry Honey – to mix creative cocktails. They’re termed craft spirits, but both are 100-proof whiskeys infused with local honey during the distilling process. The honey contributes a nice flavor component with hints of vanilla and sweetness, and the addition of blueberries to the mash lends a mild tanginess to the Blueberry Honey. As business has expanded, so has the length of their bar, which Paul and Amanda, his bride of one year this past November, also built. It offers a comfortable and close view of the stills as customers wait for their mixed cocktails or shots. Bottles may also be purchased to consume off premise.
20
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
The distillation lineup has grown and changes with the seasons. Their current Grape Brandy is made from Ramona Valley AVA Merlot grapes. Limoncello made an appearance for the summer months, and in November, just in time for gifts and gatherings, Apple Pie was added to the offerings. Once Paul creates a recipe, it must be approved by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau prior to production. Then, the entire process takes about one week – from mash to distilling – to produce a single-barrel batch. A filled oak barrel marked “#1” sits in one corner of the room quietly aging. Perched upon it is an open book
where people have eagerly signed up to reserve a bottle of its contents: San Diego Sunshine’s first batch of rye whiskey. Paul also has a couple of rum recipes that are working their way through the process for release dates some time in 2017. A new release club is also being considered. These spirits offer a smoothness that makes them perfect as a sipping beverage, and their pleasant alcohol warmth adds a welcomed taste of hand-crafted sunshine.
Amanda Markham creates a cocktail.
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Peeking behind the scenes at Dos Picos County Park
Supervising Park Ranger Jane Engleton says overseeing Dos Picos County Park is a dream job. Karen Brainard photo
Tucked away
off Mussey Grade Road amid steep rocky slopes, ranchland and large oaks is Dos Picos County Park, a tranquil, secluded retreat for local residents and tourists. “It’s a cool park,” says Supervising Park Ranger Jane Engleton. “I’ve got a dream job.” The 78-acre park, whose Spanish name means “two peaks,” referring to two nearby mountains, offers something for everyone. A campground gives residents a lovely option for staycations and group gatherings. In addition to campsites, the campground offers two cabins with disability access. A gazebo that overlooks a peaceful pond is a popular spot for weddings. The pond is great for birdwatching and gives children an opportunity to try out fishing, says Engleton. “Families are making memories. It’s neat to see that,” she says. A nature trail winds up a partly-shaded, boulder-studded hill, providing moderately challenging terrain and beautiful scenery. Picnic areas under coastal live oaks, play areas, and nature-oriented public programs round out the many amenities at Dos Picos. Three years ago Engleton became supervising park ranger for Dos Picos as well as for downtown Ramona’s Collier Park, the county’s oldest park. We reached out to learn more about the ranger and the job she does overseeing these gems in Ramona.
What is your role as supervising ranger of Dos Picos and Collier parks? I manage daily park operations and the maintenance of both facilities. In this role I provide training for staff members, oversee projects and work assignments, and prepare accounting forms and other documentations. Additionally, I provide customer service by assisting park patrons, addressing questions, concerns and requests and by coordinating with camping groups to plan and enhance their park experiences. Similar to this, I oversee the development of environmental education programs to include nature hikes and facility tours for school and community groups. Other duties include coordination of security patrols, enforcement of rules and regulations, and facility safety inspections. Environmental sustainability is always a priority – so we look at ways to conserve water and comply with storm water protocols. Dos Picos is known for its trees and shade. The department’s vision is to replant any lost trees 3:1 and we’ve been able to schedule some big tree re-plantings.
Tell us about yourself. I was born in northern Indiana and moved to San Diego County in 1969. I attended Poway High School, then Palomar College and served as the owner-operator of an arts and crafts business for 20 years. I’ve been employed with County Parks since 1995.
DOS PICOS • Campground electrical upgrades to 50 amps at campsite pedestals • Irrigation upgrades, including the installation of Calsense watering systems
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RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
What do you enjoy most about being supervising ranger? I enjoy providing a positive recreation experience to our customers. What projects have you overseen at Dos Picos and Collier parks?
• Restoration of park’s pond and well system • Management of hazardous tree removal due to the effects of drought and GSOB (gold-spotted oak borer) • Preservation of Dos Picos Heritage trees, and several big tree planting events • Program scheduling – with dozens of activities every year • 3 large-scale community events, including two nights of Haunted Trails and a Spring Egg Hunt COLLIER • Construction of a new all-inclusive play structure and playground surfaces upgrades • Conversion of a tennis court to a basketball court • Asphalt repair for the parking areas • Implementation of water conservation plan with turf removal and landscape improvements involving drought-tolerant native vegetation What is the most challenging aspect of your job? The current drought. This impacts vegetation and the overall health of our Heritage tree population throughout Dos Picos. How many rangers or staff members work at the two parks? What are their roles? One senior park ranger, two 2 park rangers, three park attendants, seven park hosts and two student workers. Their role is to provide customer service, lead interpretive programs, assist with special community events, and conduct facility, trails and landscaping maintenance.
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What is the
HERITAGE TREE PROGRAM? The county initiated the Heritage Tree Preservation Program to catalog existing mature trees and establish requirements for maintaining tree diversity and density in all of its parks. According to the county, many trees show signs of drought-related stress due to drought conditions, which can weaken trees and thus make them more susceptible to pest infestations, such as GSOB, and fungus. In the past three years, Dos Picos has lost about 200 trees. The county works to replace the lost trees through its Heritage Tree Preservation Program. Key components of the program are: • To evaluate the health of existing trees within the parks. • To ensure no net loss of trees within the parks. Trees affected by drought-related or pest threats are removed and replaced at a ratio of 3:1. • To diversify tree species by making sustainable tree selections that represent families of native tree species. • When planting new trees, the county says large trees should be local, native and grown in a box, and planted in areas where they are interspersed with small trees to permit a better tap root system. Also, planted trees should be free of disease and show no signs of stress or pest infestation, and planted with pre-approved deep root drip irrigations systems.
RESIDENTS OF DOS PICOS Among the types of wildlife found at Dos Picos: • Red-Shoulder Hawks • Acorn Woodpeckers • Western Scrub Jays • Western Blue Jays • Great Blue Herons • Several Duck Species • Coyotes • Foxes • Opossums • Skunks • Raccoons • Owls 24
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
Jane Engleton, supervising ranger for Dos Picos County Park, shows the pond area, her favorite spot of the park. Karen Brainard photo
Do you or any rangers live on site? Yes, one member of our team lives on site to provide 24/7 assistance to our customers, as needed. Who maintains and supports the parks? Do you work with volunteers? Both internal and external services support our parks. My department works with county Department of Public Works, the sheriff’s Civics Program, California Conservation Corps, Cal Fire and other local, state and federal agencies. We also work closely with volunteer groups like Scouts, church youth groups and the YMCA. What are your favorite spots at Dos Picos Park? Dos Picos pond, located at Area No. 1. There’s a great nature trail at that location. What seasonal changes do you find at Dos Picos? Spring is a very busy time for animals, insects and plants at Dos Picos County Park. We see lots of baby ducks, owls, hawks and birds nesting throughout the park’s huge coastal live oak trees and near the pond. Young raccoons, possums, skunks and rabbits have plenty of ideal habitat to thrive within the 79-acre park. With the winter and spring rains and warmer temperatures, wildflowers and native grasses are in full bloom. In the fall coastal live oak trees drop acorns. Birds migrate in and out of the area. There’s
great bird-watching at the pond. What programs and activities are offered at Dos Picos? Weekend programs consist of nature hikes, wildlife presentations and fire prevention workshops. Focus areas are on water conservation and a “Leave No Trace” mentality. We run a variety of arts and crafts projects, scavenger hunts, and earth ball and slackline activities – details are in the County Parks program guide, our website and on Facebook. Can you tell readers some lesser known facts about Dos Picos? Dos Picos is a popular place for birdwatching. Local sightings include Red-Shoulder Hawks, Acorn Woodpeckers, Western Scrub Jays and Western Blue Jays. Recently, Great Blue Herons with two juveniles have been seen nesting and hunting around the park’s pond. What are the short-term and long-term goals for Dos Picos? In the short term, we will continue to increase quality educational programs for our customers. We also plan to install additional wilderness cabins. Long term, we will replant native and nonnative trees throughout Dos Picos’ park to support tree diversification, which protects us from impacts like drought and invasive species. We’ll also be removing GSOB-trees, which has recently impacted the park.
Short and long-term goals for Collier Park? In the short term, we’ll continue to work with the Boys and Girls Club in their efforts to expand their facility, and conduct daily maintenance. Over the long term, we plan to plant additional big trees and more water-wise plants to further improve the park’s landscaping and opportunities for shade.
Earth Ball – Park rangers supervise children playing with the Earth Ball, one of the program activities offered at Dos Picos park. courtesy photo
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What are your hobbies and interests? Kayak fishing, home design, gardening and remodeling… Exploring urban places and visiting vintage and historical sites… Touring art galleries and funky, unique shops… Travels to Northern Arizona to collect Southwest and American folk art. Dos Picos County Park is at 17953 Dos Picos Park Road. Collier Park is at 626 E. St. in downtown Ramona. More information is at www.sdparks.org.
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Calendar of Events Following are a sample of Ramona’s 2017 events For complete and updated calendars, see the Ramona Sentinel’s weekly newspaper or the Sentinel’s website, www.ramonasentinel.com. FEBRUARY
JUNE
4, 11, 18 and 25: HAWK WATCH, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Begent Ranch, 18528 Highland Valley Road. Free. Opportunity to observe and learn about wintering and resident raptors in the Ramona Grasslands. Presented by Wildlife Research Institute. www.wildlife-research.org
10: 13TH ANNUAL BOW-WOW POW-WOW presented by Kiwanis club of Ramona, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., ROcc Pavilion, 421 Aqua Lane. www.kiwanisramonaca.org
9: ACOUSTIC MUSIC SHOWCASE, features Dusty and The LoveNotes, 6 to 7 p.m., Ramona Library, 1275 Main St. Free concert. 760-788-5270
MARCH 9: ACOUSTIC MUSIC SHOWCASE, 6 to 7 p.m., Ramona Library, 1275 Main St. Free. 18: RAMONA MUSIC FEST, presented by Ramona Rotary club and Kiwanis club of Ramona, noon to 6 p.m., Ramona Outdoor community center (ROcc) Pavilion, 421 Aqua Lane.
APRIL 1: SAN DIEGO CONCERT BAND, presented by Ramona concert Association, 7:30 p.m., charles R. Nunn Performing Arts center, 1521 Hanson Lane. 760-789-7474, www.ramonaconcerts.com 8 and 9: RAMONA ARTISTS OPEN STUDIOS TOUR, Artists open their studios to visitors. www.ramonaart.com 9: MISS RAMONA PAGEANT, 5:30 p.m., ROcc Pavilion. www.missramonapageant.wers.com 13: ACOUSTIC MUSIC SHOWCASE, 6 to 7 p.m., Ramona Library, 1275 Main St. Free. 760-788-5270 15: SPRING EGGSTRAVAGANZA, 10 to 11 a.m., Dos Picos county Park, 17953 Dos Picos Road. 760-789-2220 22: RAMONA GARDEN CLUB PLANT SALE, Ramona Library parking lot. www.ramonagardenclub.com 29-30: 24-HOUR RELAY FOR LIFE OF RAMONA 9 a.m. to 9 a.m., Wilson Stadium, 720 Ninth St. RelayForLife.org/RamonacA 29: RAMONA HIGH SCHOOL BANDS, 7:30 p.m., charles R. Nunn Performing Arts center. www.ramonaconcerts.com
MAY 6 and 7: 6TH ANNUAL RAMONA OLD WEST DAYS, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., ROcc. www.ramonaoldwestdays.com 19: POPS CONCERT, Ramona High Royal Alliance Band, 1401 Hanson Lane. 19-21: RAMONA RODEO, ROcc Fred Grand Arena. www.ramonarodeo.net 20: MAIN STREET PARADE, 10 a.m., www.ramonarodeo.net
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RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
10: RIB & CHICKEN FEST to benefit Ramona Senior center Nutrition Program, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., charles R. Nunn Performing Arts center, 1521 Hanson Lane. 766-789-0440, www.ramonaseniorcenter.com 16: FORUS GOLF TOURNAMENT chaired by Shelly Heimer, San Vicente Golf Resort. 619-743-8848
JULY 4: JULY 4TH PARADE, 10 a.m., Pappas Road from Avenel Lane to Ramona Oaks Park. www.sdcea.net 4: 25TH ANNUAL JULY 4TH FIREWORKS AND FAMILY PICNIC presented by Ramona Rotary club, 5 p.m., fireworks at 9, fields behind Olive Peirce Middle School, 1521 Hanson Lane. www.facebook.com/Ramona.Rotary.club 15: RAMONA JUNIOR FAIR PIE AUCTION & TRACTOR SHOW, Junior Fairgrounds, 431 Aqua Lane. ramonajuniorfair.com 22: NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY, noon to 5 p.m., Mountain Valley Ranch, 842 state Route 78. 29: WEEKLONG RAMONA JUNIOR FAIR begins, Junior Fairgrounds. www.ramonajuniorfair.com
AUGUST 5: RAMONA JUNIOR FAIR LIVESTOCK AUCTION, 1 p.m., Junior Fairgrounds. ramonajuniorfair.com dates tBa: RAMONA COUNTRY FAIR presented by Ramona chamber of commerce, ROcc. www.ramonachamber.com 21: FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL. www.ramonausd.net
SEPTEMBER 9: GRAPE STOMP presented by Ramona Rotary club, Ramona Valley Vineyard Association and Ramona Senior center, ROcc. 31: MAIN STREET MERCHANTS’ SAFE TRICK OR TREAT sponsored by Ramona chamber of commerce, 4 to 6 p.m. 760-789-1311 Among other upcoming events are Ramona Chamber of Commerce mixers the third Thursday of each month, 6 to 8 p.m., with the exception of Oct. 20 and the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 2, www.ramonachamber.com, and Friday Night Lights Ramona High home football games in Bulldog Stadium, ramonahighathletics.com.
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“We Cater to Cowards”
We offer a FULL RANGE of cosmetic and dental services: • CEREC® Crowns • Dental Implants • Laser Technology • Teeth Whitening • Periodontics
Now accepting NEW patients
Visit our website at www.boykindds.com
VA insurance accepted
Malcolm J. Boykin DDS, Inc. Your Dentist In Ramona and Surrounding Areas
2005 Main Street, Ramona • 760-789-2330 RAMONA LIFESTYLES • WWW.RAMONASENTINEL.cOM 27
Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Results.® 619-820-3812 I CalBre# 01975837
Lori Hoge
Lori Hoge has been a Ramona resident for over 25 years and is currently serving as a Board Director for The Ramona Real Estate Association. She has strong knowledge of the community which makes her a great resource for local information. As a California licensed REALTOR®, Lori is committed to helping her clients consciously connect with the home of their dreams and providing them with the best possible experience! Lori welcomes the opportunity to represent you as your Professional Real Estate Consultant when buying or selling a home.
“Home is where life happens”
Susan Willis
www.lorihogerealtor.com
619-995-6200 I CalBre# 01280545
Susan Willis is a licensed REALTOR® Broker Associate with 16 years experience serving San Diego County. As a listing and buyer’s agent, Susan’s commitment to her clients, knowledge of the marketplace and outstanding customer service sets her apart from the crowd. Once you work with Susan you will know you have made a lifelong Real Estate connection. Susan has been awarded the RE/MAX Executive Award 2015 and 2016, Zillow 5 star agent. www.suewillis.net
“I Love 92065”
760-317-8347 I CalBre# 01960998
Tarrah Roane
Since joining RE/MAX Direct as a California licensed REALTOR®, Tarrah Roane has demonstrated her commitment to helping clients manage their real estate needs and wants with the utmost professionalism. Tarrah Roane has been a resident of San Diego County for over 25 years and has lived and worked for the majority of that time in the Ramona community, making this not only her hometown but also allows her to offer impeccable guidance for her clients. She is recognized as a RE/ MAX Executive Club Member and also as a Zillow Five Star Premier Agent. Please consider Tarrah as your local resource for a range of valuable information or if you need assistance buying or selling real estate in San Diego County.
1410 Main Street, Ramona CA 92065 28
RAMONA LIFESTYLES • 2017
www.tarrahroane.com