Life Morro
JUNE 2016
Bay
EVERYTHING MORRO BAY
Inside ... Just People at Otter Rock 2 Dog obedience training 2 BBQ for Project Surf Camp 3 Coalesce Book Store 4
A chicken chimichanga, one of the many authentic Mexican dishes available at new eatery La Vida Roca.
Photos By Allyson Oken/Morro Bay Life
Bicycle riders line up near Morro Rock, ready to begin the fourth leg of the Amgen Tour of California on May 18. BETH BOLYARD
Inside the Morro Bay business walk By BETH BOLYARD For Morro Bay Life
MORRO BAY — Morro Bay has been a longtime local destination for my family and I since moving to Atascadero in 2006 — one quick jaunt over the hill and we could be immersed in a world of small beach shops, marine life and the smell of the sea. From the unique treasures found at the plethora of local thrift stores, to the opportunity to eat certifiably good seafood at a number of area restaurants, the little town by the Pacific proved to be the perfect destination for a local looking to get away. I now work with Morro Bay Life, the direct mail monthly you are currently so thoroughly enjoying and I get the opportunity
Amgen comes to town Fourth leg of bicycle tour kicks off in Morro Bay By ALLYSON OKEN For Morro Bay Life
C
oleman Park in Morro Bay was alive with cyclists for the inaugural ride as the chosen city for stage four of the Amgen Tour of California race, May 18. Thousands were in attendance that morning to see the internationally-acclaimed cyclists jet off from the beach for a 133.6 mile trek up the coast to Monterey in the longest stage of the race. Morro Bay Mayor Jamie Irons was welcomed on the stage just before the start of the race with his committee of planners and partners in line behind him. “This is really a vision we have had for the city for years and it took a great deal of planning, but to see it all come to fruition is amazing,” he said. There were hundreds of service providers in place at the race to ensure the safety of the riders. Morro Bay Fire Department was flying the colors and providing first responder support, Morro Bay Police Department was providing motorcycle
Morro Bay Mayor Jamie Irons, right, was ecstatic to see the race plans come to fruition.
officers to support riders and each team and some of the riders had their own following cars ready to change tires and provide aid as needed. The event went off without a hitch and according to Amgen Tours they will be hosting in Morro Bay again. Amgen reported that at the end of the trek World Please turn to Page 9
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5th annual Kick-A-Thon raises $2K for Project Surf Camp
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MORRO BAY — Newcomers to Morro Bay, Jim and Sophia Tolle have immersed themselves in the business world of the Embarcadero. Sophia took over the popular store Poppy. Jim thought he would semi-retire from his construction manufacturing business in Fresno but Sophia sent him off to find something new to do to get him out of her hair and the outcome is the creation of the only full authentic Mexican Restaurant on the waterfront. La Vida Roca, Mexican Restaurant and Cantina opened in December 2015 after Tolle convinced owner Jerry Morfin of Marinas Cocina in Atascadero to join with him in this new venture. “Every time I came to the Central Coast I ate at Jerry’s little place in Atascadero,” Tolle said, “it is the best Mexican food I’ve ever had.” When Tolle saw that the space above Rose’s Landing was available he told Sophia and she agreed it would be a great place for him to open an eatery. “We’ll always have a place to meet for lunch,” they said. Tolle realized that although there were a few Mexican restaurants in town, there was no Mexican food available on the Embarcadero. At first Morfin thought Tolle was joking, but he Please turn to Page 11
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Photo courtesy of Katie Finley
Assistant sense Eric breaks boards that are lit on fire for the finale of the American Karate School’s Kick-A-Thon.
MORRO BAY — After a full morning of kicking, punching and board-breaking, American Karate School’s annual Kick-A-Thon came to a close at Coleman Park in Morro Bay, May 14, raising more than $2,000 in support of nonprofit Project Surf Camp. Owner and Sensi Bryan Way said that he was very proud of every student who took the time to participate this
year. “It is really a worth while project for the kids to help them see that giving back can be fun,” he said. “They all really love to be able to help out Project Surf Camp, who help so many kids with special needs find an outlet to learn to surf.” This year the students did rounds of punches, kicks, sit-ups and pushups to
For Morro Bay Life
******ECRWSSEDDM****** POSTAL CUSTOMER MORRO BAY, CA 93442
Of Morro Bay Life
By RUTH ANN ANGUS
Monthly publication dedicated to covering everything in Morro Bay, CA.
By ALLYSON OKEN
La Vida Roca: Authentic Mexican on the Embarcadero
2 - Morro Bay Life - June 2016
Contributed Photo
Funk/rock/soul band Just People will perform at Otter Rock Cafe June 13.
Songwriters at Play presents: Just People Eclectic group performing in Morro Bay at the Otter Rock Café June 13 BY ALLYSON OKEN For Morro Bay Life
MORRO BAY — Steven Keys, of Songwriters at Play and Otter Rock Café, presents Just People, taking the stage on June 13 at 6:30 p.m. Just People are what could be coined as funkrocksouledelic, a winning trifecta of genres that incorporates funk, rock, soul and the psychedelic jam band sound. Based out of Portland, Ore., this band boasts one fat sound born out of the mind
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of front man Scott Gilmore. Just People are Scott Gilmore on lead vocals, guitar and piano; Alex Greene on drums; Todd Gee on bass; Peter Marcot on lead guitar; Jeff Pomerantz on guitar; Morgan Quinn on saxophone and Steve Aman on keys. Gilmore said that the band’s latest album, released this year and titled “Monolith,” was a huge step in the band’s evolution. “It has been a labor of love over eight or so years and it feels like we have really found our rhythm with these songs and
some have been in the works for four or five years so we have been able to refine them over time and make them just what we wanted them to be,” he said. Gilmore said that lead guitarist Peter Marcot is a master, adding depth to the band’s songs with odd time signatures and diminished and augmented chords. “It is a nice process where it has listenability but it is not just a cookie cutter four-chord song and done,” he said. The Album “Monolith” is 10 tracks of diverse and colorful music, each song
different from the next going from the uptempo “Assembly Line,” to the complexity of “Waterfall,” with its easy instrumentation and fat two-part harmonies sung in unison. Gilmore explained that they will be playing the album in a cut-down version, but will stay true to the original album as much as they can. For more information about the show, visit songwritersatplay.com or otterrockcafe.com. To listen to Just People for a sneak peek at the new album, visit justpeoplemusic.com.
Dog obedience summer school Beaty to offer multiple classes at Tidelands park BY ALLYSON OKEN
Publisher
John Bartlett
Editor Brian Williams editor@atascaderonews.com Editorial Allyson Oken, Ruth Ann Angus Advertising Sales
Beth Bolyard bbolyard@atascaderonews.com
Design Luke Phillips Morro Bay Life is published monthly. All rights reserved, material may not be reprinted without written consent from the publisher. Morro Bay Life made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this publication, but assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Morro Bay Life is a division of the News Media Corporation.
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For Morro Bay Life Irina Beaty and her dog Dasha will be offering Dog Obedience Summer School through Morro Bay Recreation Services during the month of June. Contributed photo
MORRO BAY — Morro Bay Recreation Services is offering Dog Obedience Summer School with trainer Irina Beaty and her dog Dasha. Hosting Saturday classes June 4, 11 and 18 at 9 a.m. for Leash Manners and Recall and Wednesday classes June 1, 8, 15 and 22 focusing on Puppy Manners at 4 p.m. and Basic Obedience at 5:30 p.m. She will also host Thursday classes with Touch-up Training at 4 p.m. and Advanced Obedience at 5:30 p.m. Beaty said that she has always loved dogs but didn’t discover her passion for training until she got her dog Dasha. She said that Dasha had a hard time listening so she started to train with her. “I discovered that the relationship between dog and owner is very complex and to train a dog that is misbehaving like Dasha was in the beginning can be a challenge without the correct tools,” Beaty said. “After years of working with Dasha we discovered that we both love to train.” Over the years Beaty and Dasha have even been given ribbons for completing in agility trials and are avid members of the Santa Lucia Open Dog Obedience Group. Training a dog can be very rewarding, Beaty said, and it has become her obsession. Anyone can register for the class with proof of dog vaccination and enjoy these hands-on and informational classes hosted at Tidelands Park in Morro Bay. The cost to register varies — Saturday classes run $50 for three weeks, Wednesday Puppy Manners cost $60 for four weeks and Basic Obedience cost $60 for four weeks. Thursday classes cost $60 for the four weeks. To register for classes with Beatty owners must be 15 years of age or older. Sign up at amp.activecommunity. com/morrobay. For more information, e-mail Beatty.i@sbcglobal.net.
Morro Bay Life - June 2016 - 3
Thank you for your patience, Morro Bay! We are excited to report great progress as we reinforce and retrofit the old Happy Jacks building at 900 Main, and we are so appreciative of your collective interest and encouragement as we reveal the historic beauty of this iconic institution.
Updates to follow...
Cheers, Paul and Kelly General Contractor– Green Smart Construction, Morro Bay
4 - Morro Bay Life - June 2016
Annual pre-4th barbecue honors Project Surf Camp By RUTH ANN ANGUS For Morro Bay Life
Once again for its annual pre4th of July barbecue, San Luis Sports Therapy in Morro Bay is holding a fundraiser for Project Surf Camp, the organization that offers surfing lessons for special needs children and their families. This popular event that is put on by clinic director Michael Williams and enhanced with potluck dishes from his current and former patients will take place Friday, June 24 from noon to 4 p.m. Tri-tip steaks and chicken are provided and potluck dishes are welcome. The afternoon party takes place inside and outside the clinic and Project Surf Camp will be on hand with their booth selling raffle tickets for a variety of prizes including the grand prize of a 32-inch TV donated by Coast Electronics as
well as approximately 25 other prizes such as hotel stays and restaurant coupons. “I am excited to hold this event again this year,” Williams said “to continue to support this very worthwhile organization.” Last year this event raised $4,500 for Project Surf Camp. Williams is also asking for people to donate used wetsuits and life jackets. As in past years Williams also invited the Bloodmobile to be on hand all afternoon for anyone who would be willing to donate blood. “Everyone is invited to come out and enjoy the barbecue and celebrate our nation’s independence anniversary while helping to support Project Surf Camp,” Williams said. San Luis Sports Therapy is located at 890 Shasta St. on the corner of Harbor Street. For more information call 7724325.
Ruth Ann Angus/Morro Bay Life
Michael Williams of San Luis Sports therapy in Morro Bay and Matt Makowetski, City Council person and Project Surf Camp organizer hold a celebratory cake.
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Morro Bay Life - June 2016 - 5
Coalesce: Uniting a community with books By RUTH ANN ANGUS For Morro Bay Life
MORRO BAY — The eclectic and unique bookstore and more on Main Street is the outcome of a germ of an idea that owner Linna Thomas had back in the early 1970s after graduating from college with a bunch of degrees and a teaching credential she didn’t really want to use. “I was working as a waitress up in Oregon and living with a group of people on a walnut farm,” she explained, “and was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life.” There were three couples there at the time and two of them decided to relocate to Morro Bay. One of the people was Thomas’s friend Janet Bradley. Bradley and Thomas came together in Morro Bay with the idea to have a bookstore. Bradley and Thomas immediately set out to find a spot to open their bookstore and settled on a small house that was located near where the Blue Sail Inn is on Harbor today. “After paying rent we had $1,600 left with which to buy books,” she said. Neither gal had a stockpile of books so they ventured to Los Angeles to purchase an assortment of new books. That $1,600 didn’t stretch very far and so they came home with only a carload of books. That’s when they decided to do new and used books. At that time there were no combination new and used bookstores. You either went to a new book store or a used book store. Used books were only available from the public not from a book warehouse or from book suppliers. The two women took books donated to them and it was many years down the road that the store actually had a lot of stock. Thomas and Bradley stayed in business together for six years. “When one decides to open a bookstore one makes a conscious choice
Ruth Ann Angus/Morro Bay Life
Linna Thomas, owner of Coalesce Bookstore and staff person Joanne Hand
for downward mobility in terms of finances,” Thomas joked. “You are not going to get rich. For the first 10 years I lived in the back of the store. But back in the 70s and early 80s it was easier to live a more simple life.” Thomas graced the location of the first store by planting two pine trees outside that are still growing in that location, but the store moved on to its present location in 1982. The space on Main Street was already a metaphysical
bookstore run by Marjorie and Stanley Smith. Thomas apprenticed with her and to this day feels the store still has Marjorie’s spirit. The Garden Chapel was used by the Smiths for Church of Religious Science services and weddings. The Chapel been designed by Cal-Poly architect students as a school project. Thomas did a major remodel of it after purchasing the building in 1986. “The Chapel is the thing that has made this whole thing possible,” Thomas said. It is used for weddings, poetry readings, book signings, community meetings, yoga classes, and very popular concerts. “SLO Folks holds their series of concerts here,” Thomas said, “and we have an average of two concerts a month at the Chapel.” The
nice thing about attending a concert here is that it is an intimate setting, holding approximately 65 people, and people attending get to personally meet and speak with the performers who love the audiences here because they are so appreciative. Over the years many famous folk singers from the 60s and 70s folk era have performed here. Thomas goes out to people’s homes to collect used books and takes turnins at the store and offers payment for them. Anything she can’t use she brings to libraries, hospitals, Achievement House, Casa de Flores, and also sends some to the prison and Atascadero State Hospital. Coalesce is stocked floor to ceiling with an amazing variety of new and used books and lots of books on tape. You can find things there that you will not find elsewhere. “We have a strong nautical section,” Thomas said, “boat history, pirate stories, boat building, and we also have a great kids section with interactive books. There are also books about the ocean and the environment, guide books on birds and seashells and more along with all kinds of genres for both fiction and non-fiction.” Sherri Hereford, who has been with Coalesce for many years, is the buyer for all the non-book items that includes cards, music, poetry books in a box, candles, jewelry, socks, aromatherapy items, soaps, kits and packs about weather and volcanoes, maps, coloring books and the pens and pencils for them, laminated charts for birds and other nature items, journals, big and small. “We’ve tried to mix it up and find things that are unusual and special,” Thomas said. “We offer books online and I store rare books at my home. It’s not a lot of fluff books but are things to improve your life.” Thomas appreciates the help of her staff who along with Hereford consists of Joanne Hand, Roxanne Styles, and Penny Sitko. Thomas’ husband wants to retire from his business soon but she isn’t ready to stop. “I love what I do and could do this forever. I may see some downsizing for me but no end to this type of life yet.”
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Grandma’s Frozen Yogurt & Waffle Shop at “The Gathering Place” Summer Time Fun at Grandma’s! Non-Electronic Game Center Wednesday, June 22, 2016 - 2p.m. - 4 p.m. YOYO Gathering. FREE Duncan YoYos for the first 100 young people under 18. Come and learn how to take care of your new toy and a few tricks to practice. YoYo Club sign-ups for all ages. If you are experienced, please come and share what you know. SUMMER CONCERT SERIES LIVE MUSIC every Saturday during the Morro Bay Farmer’s Market 3-6 p.m. in the courtyard of Grandma’s, “The Gathering Place.” Themed Birthday Parties – Special Occasions – A Place to Sit & Visit While Downtown Morro Bay
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6 - Morro Bay Life - June 2016
Learn how to play duplicate bridge for free Submitted Article MORRO BAY — The Morro Bay Charity Bridge Club is offering a free workshop, “Bridge Players Learn How to Play Duplicate Bridge,” on Wednesday, June 15 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the St Peters by the Sea Church meeting room at 545 Shasta Ave. To sign up or for more information, please call Sally Holmes at 771-9097 or e-mailsally.holmes@att.net. If you have never played duplicate bridge you are in for a real treat, as all you experienced duplicate players already know. You don’t have to be a super bridge player- we have people that play at all levels.
What your day will look like on Bridge Appreciation Day, Wednesday, June 15: Free Class: 11 a.m. to noon (experienced duplicate players do not have to attend) Free Lunch: 12-12:30 p.m. Free Bridge Game: 12:30 to approximately 4 p.m. You can come with a partner, or we will provide you with a partner. When you make your reservation for the day please tell Sally if you will need a partner. The people that play in our bridge club are very nice and friendly and will be very helpful throughout the day. What is duplicate bridge? In social or party bridge you deal out each hand and
when it is over you shuffle the cards for the next hand. In duplicate bridge, the hands are dealt by a computer and then put into what is called a board that has four slots one for each direction north, south, east and west. As each trick is played, the cards are kept in front of each player, the results of the auction are entered into a small computer, the boards are sent to the next table up, and the east/ west pair goes to the next table down. At the end of the session every north/south pair and every east/west pair has played the same hands and a winner in each direction is determined. It sounds complicated but it’s actually simple, fun and addicting. The most
interesting part is that at the end of the game, every player receives a print out that shows each hand played. This allows everyone to compare how they and their partner did compared to the others that played the same hands. Morro Bay Charity Bridge Club has been in existence since 1977 and attracts friendly, nice players who always welcome newcomers. Players can come without a partner and are always guaranteed to play. The group started at the Morro Bay Library and now are at St Peters by the Sea Church. Every year they donate funds to various charities. Last year it was the local food bank.
Morro Bay woman finds her calling in skin treatments By RUTH ANN ANGUS For Morro Bay Life
We don’t often think about our skin until a blemish or a suspicious mark shows up on our face. Then it’s off to the dermatologist to have the offending thing removed. But we should pay more attention to our skin because it is the largest organ of our body. Cyndee Edwards started The Skin Stop in Morro Bay after having a career revelation while working at a spa in Los Angeles. “I got a degree at Cal Poly to become a news reporter and then found out I didn’t really like doing that,” she said. “While working at this spa I literally fell into the skin profession.”
A boyfriend treated her to a skin treatment session at the spa and Edwards found she loved the one-on-one contact, the calmness of the setting, and the aromas. “I loved all the sensory aspect of it,” she explained, “and I came out feeling so good. I knew then I wanted to offer that to people.” Edwards immediately signed up for school and after 650 hours she became an aesthetician and started working doing skin treatments. Skin treatments are not invasive like a dermatology treatment. Skin becomes more sensitive as we grow older and its natural turnover cycle changes. When your skin is young it exfoliates, or turns over, dead
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cells in about 20 days. After reaching 40 it probably takes over 30 days and longer and longer as we age. “You can actually see the effects of this cycle change,” Edwards said, “the skin looks dull or off color because the old cells are sticking to it.” A 60-minute core treatment involves a skin consultation, customized cleansing, exfoliation, steam towels, blackhead extraction if needed, aromatherapy, face, neck and shoulder massage, mask, moisturizer and sunscreen, and eye and lip therapy. After this, the face will be brighter. “A lot of people think a scrub needs to be done,” Edwards explained, “but this is not necessarily the best for older skin.” Skin reflects the conditions of our bodies. If your liver or pancreas is being overworked or you smoke, the cholesterol and the nicotine push out through the skin. After all, we’re porous! One thing Edwards eschews is the use of soap on your face. Soap leaves a film and it strips the natural oils and moisture. “You are going to have issues with your skin if you use soap,” she said. “It can impair the skin. Even water can do that since it is either soft or hard.” She feels that skin treatment is more therapeutic and that the topical esthetics on the market are amazing in what they can do. She emphasizes that she is not a dermatologist and does not do deep skin peels that a dermatologist would do. She does offer a treatment called Micro Current. This treatment includes all of
what is offered in the 60-minute treatment and also includes state of the art face technology lifts, toning and firming of the skin. With this treatment she provides muscle re-education while penetrating targeted serums. This minimizes fine lines, wrinkles and inflammation. “We have about 50 muscles in our face,” she said, “but only use about seven of them. Some are over used, like around the eyes and mouth causing lines and wrinkles.” Edwards sees a lot of adult acne and feels that while it may be inherited, it also is affected by the environment and stress. There are a variety of different skin treatments available and also ways to boost each treatment depending on a person’s skin needs. Edwards’ prices are very reasonable as compared to what a metropolitan spa would offer. She is happy to be able to offer her clients a confidential, safe, and relaxing environment. Edwards utilizes skin products from Dermatologica, Images, and Youngblood and locally from All Good Goop from Elemental Herbs of Morro Bay. None of these products are animal based. “I wanted to offer something that wasn’t being offered on the Central Coast,” she said, “You often have to go to Los Angeles or San Francisco for services like this.” Edwards has been doing this for 17 years now and in addition to her first location in Morro Bay at 645 Main Street, Suite H she also has a spot in San Luis Obispo at 177 Santa Rosa Street, Suite 2. Call 805-4593792 for an appointment.
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Cyndee Edwards, owner of The Skin Stop in Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo in front of the display of some of the skin products she uses in a treatment.
Morro Bay Life - June 2016 - 7
ONGOING EVENTS INTUITIVE MEDITATION CIRCLE Join Ruby Dragon for guided meditation, meditative playtime and/or individual meditation second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The cost to attend class is $20 lead by Kate Eckley, this month in May 10 and 24 The intention of the drop-in Intuitive Meditation Circle is to provide a peaceful, protected, distraction-free place where you can settle into and enhance your meditation practice. For more information, visit everydaymetaphysics.com/ intuitive-meditation-circles. FARMERS MARKET The Morro Bay weekly Saturday farmers market is open to the public beginning at 3 to 6 p.m. There will be all kinds of wonderful artisan wares and produce for purchase. The event is located in downtown Morro Bay at Main and Harbor Street. For more information, or to become a vendor call 772-4467. FARMERS MARKET 2 The Morro Bay weekly Thursday farmers market is open to the public beginning at 2:30 to 5 p.m. There will be all kinds of wonderful artisan wares and produce for purchase. The event is located at Spencer’s Market, located at 2650 Main Street in Morro Bay. For more information, or to become a vendor call 772-8103. SATURDAY SCIENTISTS Come to the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History in Morro Bay to learn about science and microscopes in these hands on up close looks at everyday objects. Hosted the 3rd Saturday of the month at 2 p.m. It is family oriented and if people come especially to do the program, there is no charge for entry. The Museum is located at 20 State Park Road in Morro Bay and is open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 772-2694 or visit ccspa.info/morrobay. BEGINNING BELLY DANCE CLASSES Morro Bay Bellydance troupe Benat Serat invites you to join them and learn original dances sets to current music as well as traditional Middle Eastern rhythms at Beginning Belly dance classes, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. through the Morro Bay Community Center located at 1000 Kennedy Way in Morro Bay. The cost to attend is $20 per month and $15 per month to Morro Bay residence and to drop in the cost is $7 and $5 to residence of Morro Bay. To learn more about Benat Serat visit benatserat.wordpress.com. MORRO BAY EMBARCADERO ART WALK On the second Friday of every month from 5 to 8 p.m. Art Galleries and Shops located in the Marina Square Complex on the waterfront side of the Embarcadero. Spend an enjoyable evening along the waterfront free! Converse with many talented local artists about their fine art, jewelry, crafts and more! Have a work of art, signed by the artist! Listen to local guitarist, Mike Swanberg. Enjoy refreshments provided by participating galleries and shops. Marina Square Complex, 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442 contact Marina Square Complex 772-1068. MORRO BAY ART CENTER NEW OIL PAINTING CLASS “PAINTING 101” Jason Mayr’s ongoing classes meet Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for the cost of $30 per session. This will be a trial run ending April 10. This is open to the public. For more information or to register e-mail Jason at jkmayr@aol.com. To learn more about Art Center classes and more visit, artcentermorrobay.com. MORRO BAY ART CENTER GOUACHE & ACRYLIC CLASS Diana Manseau classes meet on Fridays from 1 – 4 p.m. The cost per class is $25. Some materials are available for student use. Students are welcome to drop in. For more info call Diana at: 772-2102. To learn more about Art Center classes and more visit, artcentermorrobay.com. TAROT TUESDAYS Calling all Empresses, Magicians, Lovers, and Seekers on the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 2:00-4:00 p.m. for the cost of $20. A fun afternoon of interactive tarot play! Relax with a cup of tea. Bring your favorite deck. Enhance your intuitive reading skills, learn new spreads, practice reading with each other. For more information, visit rubydragon.info. ANGEL HEALING CIRCLE On the second and fourth Wednesday, from 6 - 8:30 p.m. for the cost of $20 each to enjoy class with Mary Hiestand, ATP May 11 and 25. The Angel Healing Circle at Ruby Dragon is a peaceful time designed to help you relax, meditate, and connect to your Angels. For more information, visit rubydragon.info. DREAM CIRCLE: UNIVERSAL DREAM AND THE POWER OF COLLECTIVE Join the dreamwork circle every 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month from 5:006:30 p.m. in the classroom for a cost of $10 suggested offering with Martien and Teressena Bakens. Hosted March1 and 15, dreaming is an opportunity to access other realms and states of consciousness through our energetic dream body. For more information, visit rubydragon.info. WOMEN’S FITNESS FOR BODY, SPIRIT, MIND & HEALTH Join certified Bellyfit(R) instructor Leslie Thompson for a one-hour cardio, yoga and Pilates work out that combines dance moves and music from around the world to give participant a holistic fitness experience that leaves them feeling energized and focused. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 - 10 a.m., located at Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way. The cost with a Punch pass is 8 for $50 or $8 drop in.
To be included in the Community Calendar please contact Allyson Oken at
aoken@atascaderonews.com
Community Calendar SATURDAY, JUNE 4 Estero Bay UMC 5th Annual Car Show
Show hours are from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. Join the United Methodists Church in the fun! Great cars and great music! Bake sale, raffles, a cakewalk, children’s activities, and awards! Enjoy a pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.-$5 with BBQ Hot Dog Lunch and homemade chili from11 a.m.2 p.m. The Estero Bay United Methodist Church, 3000 Hemlock Ave, Morro Bay. For more information call the Church Office-772-7644 or Jerry Dobyns at 9955082.
THURSDAY, JUNE 9 Morro bay women’s connection luncheon
From noon to 1:30 p.m. enjoy listening to songbird, June Wade sing and tell her story. All for the cost of $5 that includes lunch and program located at Rock Harbor 1475 Quintana Road in Morro Bay. First time guests are free and for reservations contact Rita by calling 534-1739 or emailing morrobaywc@gmail.com.
FRIDAY, JUNE 10 Coalesce Bookstore hosts concert
Join Coalesce Bookstore as they present Inner Faces in concert at 7 p.m. for the cost of $15. . Coalesce Bookstore is located at 845 Main Street in Morro Bay and for more information, call 772-2880 or email the location coalescebookstore@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, JUNE 11 ORGONE ENERGY
Come join a free seminar from 11 to noon by John Robson. John Robson has spent 4 years studying the effects of this wonderful energy and documented how it can change our world and enhance our spiritual enlightenment. Attend this free seminar and receive a 15% discount on John’s handmade Orgonite devices.... Namaste and sleep well! For more information, visit Ruby Dragon or go to their webpage at rubydragon.info.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15 EMPATHS AND RELATIONSHIPS
Come join class from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for the cost of $35 pre-registration and $40 after the 11 to learn from Mary Hiestand. Join us for important information that will empower you and help you to attract healthy people and relationships into your life. Be your best self and learn how to attract and manifest healthy relationships. For more information, visit Ruby Dragon or go to their webpage at rubydragon.info.
June FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, JUNE 17 & 18 Morro Bay Emergency Vehicle Show
Join the Morro Bay Police, Fire, and Harbor Departments for the 6th Annual Emergency Vehicle Show in partnership with Morro Bay’s 50th Year Celebration. The show will feature vehicles from many jurisdictions: fire trucks, police vehicles, tow trucks, security vehicles, ambulances, military vehicles, and other related public service vehicles. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Contact: Website or call Mike Del Puppo: 559-281-09022.
SATURDAY, JUNE 18 Coalesce Bookstore invites you to a book signing!
Enjoy “Armenia’s Fingerprint: A Family’s Fight Against Genocide During WW 1” by Bruce David Badrigian from 2-4 p.m. come meet the author at this free event. Coalesce Bookstore is located at 845 Main Street in Morro Bay and for more information, call 772-2880 or email the location coalescebookstore@gmail.com.
TUESDAY, JUNE 21 SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION
Come join the Solstice celebration from 10 a.m. to 6-7:30 p.m. for the cost of $20 with Teressena Bakens. In ceremony with the Crystal Skulls, we connect to the higher vibrations of that light for awakening consciousness and expanding our light bodies. Come and celebrate the Summer Solstice with light-minded beings! For more information, visit Ruby Dragon or go to their webpage at rubydragon.info.
SATURDAY, JUNE 25 RUBY DRAGON HOLISTIC FAIR
Come join the Ruby Dragon Holistic Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the cost of $20 for mini-sessions. Treat yourself to a day focused on your well being! Ruby Dragon practitioners will be offering mini-sessions so you can experience different healing modalities and learn about the benefits each has to offer you. Integrated Energy Therapy, Shamanic Healing Sessions, Vibroacoustic Sound Therapy, Reiki, Aroma Therapy, Crystal Healing and more! Join the festivities to receive a gift bag and the opportunity to win door prizes that support your well being. For more information, visit Ruby Dragon or go to their webpage at rubydragon.info.
8 - Morro Bay Life - June 2016
Fun Fashion at Poppy on the Embarcadero By RUTH ANN ANGUS For Morro Bay Life
MORRO BAY — New owners of Poppy on the waterfront, Sophia and Jim Tolle lucked out when they came to town searching for a business to purchase. The successful and popular store Poppy was up for sale and was just the right thing for Sophia to take on and make her own. “I was lucky to find this,” Sophia commented “and the former owner, Barbara offered to stay on with me and help for a year.” Sophia is originally from Jordan and she and her husband Jim have lived in the Middle East and Europe as well as the Central Valley of California. They met when Sophia was working for Jim’s dealer overseas. Jim was born in Los Angeles and his equipment manufacturing business operates worldwide. The new ventures they have taken on here in Morro Bay, he with La Vida Roca Mexican Restaurant, and Sophia with Poppy mean they want to settle down here permanently. “I don’t have a background in retail,” Sophia said “but I’ve done a lot of shopping!” More than likely someone with savvy shopping experience can do well in fashion retailing. But Sophia does bring an expertise in something that the store was lacking and that is skills in internet technology and systems. Former owner’s record keeping was done manually but Sophia is implementing a computerized inventory system and an online presence. “I am sticking with the same clothing line and vendors,” she said. “Poppy has a legacy and I want to build on that not change it.” Staff at the store is also happy that she has kept them on and they are happy working with her. Sophia looks at the merchandise in the store as fun fashion. It consists of high quality casual clothing appropriate for the beach scene as well as hats, scarves, jewelry, an assortment of gift items,
Ruth Ann Angus/Morro Bay Life
A colorful array of merchandise is available at The Poppy, a boutique clothing store on the Embarcadero. handbags, and shoes. “Many people locally don’t realize that we offer a variety of shoe choices,” she commented. “We have about 50 different styles and shoes make up 30 percent of our inventory.” Both Sophia and Jim feel that the store appeals to women over 30 years of age and probably even more to 40 and up.
Congratulations to Business of the Month: The Galley The Morro Bay Chamber Board of Directors proudly announce The Galley Seafood Grill and Bar as June’s Business of the Month. Not only does The Galley purchase wild-caught fish from Morro Bay’s local fishermen whenever possible, but they also source and serve farm-fresh, pesticide-free produce that has been grown exclusively for their restaurant from a family farm in Los Osos Valley. Polished and professional customer service greets every customer through the door, and touches like personalized menus for special occasions make the dining experience at The Galley memorable for visitors and local residents alike. The Galley supports many local charities, including the Community Foundation of Estero Bay.
10th Annual Avocado Margarita Festival
The 10th Annual Avocado Margarita Festival will be held the following day, Saturday, September 10th from 10am-7pm! Bands like Black Market Trio, Bear Market Riot, Proxima Parada, The JD Project, and the Zongo All Stars will keep this party rocking all day long. Come and get your guac! Check www.avomargfest.com for all event details.
June Chamber Events
Taste of the Grove
from 7:30am-9:30am. Connect with your peers and get empowered with data from the More 4 Morro Business Walk. June 22nd: Mixer at The Art Center of Morro Bay co-hosted by The Morro Bay Art Association, Harbor Fest, Morro Bay Transit (Trolley). 5:30pm-7pm Thank you to our new and renewing members: St Peter’s By the Sea, Franklin Real Estate, Hay Printing, Morro Bay Art Association, Friends of Hearst Castle, Under the Sea Gallery, Gallery at Marina Square, Pizza Port. Special thank you to Heritage Oaks Bank for its Supporting Level membership, and to Wells Fargo Bank for its Chamber Circle of Excellence membership!
Come to the inaugural Taste of the Grove event and experience a unique evening on September 9th, 2016. Tucked in Morro Bay’s avocado valley at The Packing Shed, this intimate event featuring the county’s top chefs will showcase tantalizing avocado-themed dishes paired with wine from coastal winegrowers, craft beer and mixologists. The California Avocado Commission and Calavo are on board. Avocado growers, farmers, and chefs will work together to craft an unforgettable culinary experience for all avocado lovers. Tickets are $60 per person and on sale now on Eventbrite. You can also call the Chamber for more information. 805-772-4467
June 16th: Business Forum at the Inn at Morro Bay
We appreciate your loyalty and support of the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce!
Out of town visitors are a good part of the clientele but locals love the store too. Visitors will be happy to find that Sophia has put in place a new return policy that guarantees one’s money back if an item is returned in one week. Returns thereafter receive store credit. This applies to items that are not sale items. “People don’t always like to try things on at the store,” Sophia said, “this way they can take the item home and try it and if it doesn’t work bring it back.” A new awards program is also now available where anyone spending $500 will get $20 back on their next purchase. The $500 can be accumulated over time. With this promotion Sophia hopes to learn who her customers really are and will guide her
in how much to buy for both tourists and locals. A new web site is being constructed where customers can sign up for her newsletter and also to find out about sales and special coupons. People can also sign up for the newsletter in the store. The web site will allow customers to purchase items online and have them shipped. “Online shopping is very popular,” Sophia said, “and this will be good for local people and also help out of the area people to be able to order at any time.” Poppy is located on the waterfront at 911 Embarcadero and open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can find them on Facebook at facebook.com/mbpoppy .
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Morro Bay Life - June 2016 - 9
Amgen Continued from page 1
Champion Peter Sagan (SVK), of Tinkoff, claimed his 15th alltime Amgen Tour of California stage win after a long and hilly ride northward on one of the most scenic and iconic stretches of California roadway, Highway 1, through Monterey County. In a press release submitted by Amgen, Sagan said, “It was hard, but good. I’m very happy for my other teammates, and I’m very happy to have won.” The riders faced 133 miles of undulating hills with a total of 8,500 feet of climbing during the south-to-north route along Highway 1. To see what the event will evolve into next year in Morro Bay, visit morrobay. ca.us or amgentourofcalifornia. com.
California Highway Patrol officers line up on their motorcycles during the Amgen Bicycle Tour of California in Morro Bay May 14. Allyson Oken/ Morro Bay Life
Business Walk to come to Morro Bay on a regular basis to work with local merchants. So, when I was given the opportunity to participate in the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce’s “More 4 Morro” Business Walk on May 11, I was thoroughly excited to talk local merchants about the state of business in Morro Bay. The Business Walk, the brainchild of a Cal Poly Senior Thesis Team consisting of Stacy Aragon, Kristin Nichole Hardtke and Sarrie Brielle Choy, was designed to generate a consensus of the state of local business by talking one-on-one with local merchants who live and work in the area. The Chamber sent 277 notifications to area businesses letting them know when the walk would take place; the campaign slogan
Continued from page 1
was “We care. Be there,” encouraging business owners to be available to take the short survey in person. The day of the walk, 166 business owners were available to answer the survey in person while 6 completed the survey online; this is nearly a 60 percent response rate. This just goes to show the value of meeting and talking to people face to face; Morro Bay is still as personable as ever. The walk drew nearly 60 volunteers, including Mayor Jamie Irons, Councilmembers Noah Smukler, Christine Johnson, and John Headding, along with key city staff, commissioners, and advisory body members, and many more willing volunteers. Some preliminary Business Walk
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The staff at Morro Bay Life and the Atascadero News was happy to help sponsor the “More 4 Morro” Business Walk and were proud to take part in the walk May 11. We were so excited for the event, in fact, that in an article that ran in the May issue of Morro Bay Life we mistakenly said the event was over a week earlier than it was scheduled. To err is human, and we thank you, Morro Bay, for understanding.
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findings were announced at the May 24 City Council meeting by Cal Poly thesis team who created the event, each of whom were glad to share these findings with the City Staff and members of the public. The Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce will reveal an in-depth analysis of the findings at its quarterly Business Forum June 16 at the Inn at Morro Bay. The forum starts at 7:30 a.m. for those interested in joining.
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10 - Morro Bay Life - June 2016 More than 20 students from American Karate School in Morro Bay came out to Coleman Park to kick their way to greatness and a chance to support Project Surf Camp, a Morro Bay nonprofit dedicated to teaching children with special needs how to surf. Photos courtesy of Katie Finley
Kick-A-Thon
Continued from page 1
raise funds and enjoyed being able to show off their board-breaking abilities to all the parents, friends and family members in attendance. Way said that this is not the only way the AKS helps support Project Surf Camp. “We not only raise money for them every year through Kick-A-Thon but we also volunteer every year for a day camp and get out in the water with students,” he said. “I am training my students to give back to the community and like to provide this opportunity to them and to show that it is important to give back to others.” This event allows for Project Surf Camp
to provide scholarships to students in need as well as keep equipment up to date. PSC provides students with special needs and their family members the opportunity to learn to surf. Way said that the most rewarding part for him is getting to see his students interact and light up the faces of the PSC students. To learn more about the Kick-A-Thon, make donations or sponsor a student, call 771-0233 or visit facebook.com/ aksmorrobay. For more information about Project Surf Camp, visit projectsurfcamp. com.
Bringing the famous Thai food from Atascadero to the coast Thai Elephant Restaurant, now open in Morro Bay at the old Jasmine Thai location $
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Morro Bay Life - June 2016 - 11
Jim Tolle and Jerry Morfin, partners in La Vida Roca Mexican Restaurant and Cantina on the Embarcadero.
La Vida Roca
Continued from page 1
wasn’t and a three-way partnership was formed between Jim, Jerry and Jim’s brother Paul. Morfin says the difference between what he does in his restaurants and other Mexican food places is that he makes everything from scratch. “Nothing comes out of a can,” he said. Tolle and Morfin set to coming up with the complete menu that includes the usual things like enchiladas, fajitas, tacos, chimichangas, burritos and more and always includes Morfin’s specialty chili verde. The ingredients are made fresh every day and Morfin cooks the chicken fresh and doesn’t use ground beef, but uses sirloin. Both men joked that their cooking staff spend a lot of time cooking beans and sauces and more from scratch in 100-size pots. Customers order their selections and those dishes are made on the spot. Along with these menu items, both men wanted to come up with new dishes, so they began to experiment with some new flavors and dishes. “We realized that fish is a large component of most of the dishes served at restaurants on the waterfront,” Tolle said. “Since Mexican food is not usually made up of fish dishes, we thought we would try to come up with a Mexican clam chowder.” Morfin and his crew spent months perfecting the chowder and the result is an amazing combination of seafood and Mexican flavors. The chowder seems to be
a combination of Manhattan clam chowder and a bit of the Boston type but flavored with just enough touch of spice to make it interesting. It is a light orange in color and at first seems to appear to have cheese in it, but that is not so. Chef Morfin isn’t going to give away his secret but this writer can tell you that you won’t stop eating it at one bowl. Mexican clam chowder caught on right away and now it is served only on Friday evenings. You have to get there early because it disappears quickly. “The clam chowder and the chili verde are our best sellers,” Morfin says proudly. At the time of this interview Morfin was busy trying to create a Mexican fish and chips dish. A lot of fish and chips come with a prepared heavy batter and are just popped into the fryer. Morfin wanted to create a lighter batter that would allow the fish to be the star of the plate. Tolle hopes that the people in Morro Bay will come on down to the Embarcadero and try the place. “We want people to tell us what they like and what they don’t like,” he said. La Vida Roca is a large restaurant with a spectacular view of the bay and the Rock. They also have an outside deck for dining on nice days. The cantina offers beer, wine and agave and happy hour is from 2 to 5 p.m. During the summer months there will be music on the patio. For more information go to lavidaroca. com .
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12 - Morro Bay Life - June 2016
Enjoy
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