North County Life - February 2012

FEBRUARY 2012

Oh baby!

Say hello to North County’s newest (pg. 3)

BE MINE!

Life NORTH

Sweet local dates for V-Day romance (pg. 9 )

COUNTY

Spark!

F OOD

a little romance at

Robert Hall Winery Lisa Pretty

I

have always thought of February as a month for romance. It may have something to do with Valentine’s Day being in the middle of the month, or just the fact that it tends to be a slower time of year with the sun setting early to offer plenty of time to make a home cooked ROMANCE pg. 13

Sweets for your sweetheart (pg. 13) Photo by Jandy Jones

TABLE FOR TWO – North County locals know that romance is just a stone’s throw away.

Grab a chair, pop a cork and savor the sunset. Can’t you feel the love?

FEATURE

THE BONNHEIMS

A real working ranch family From their legacy of commercial cattle and hunting comes a deep appreciation for the land ZOO to YOU Josh Petray

animals find home (pg. 5)

I

t’s a place that will never have commercial or residential homes – in perpetuity.

Working family ranching starts at the beginning of the Bonnheim driveway, which leads past a creek-fed pond to a small home that sits at the base of a towering westside Paso Robles ranch.

The flat dirt-and-gravel driveway – located on the corner of Chimney Rock Road Cypress Mountain Drive amidst the hustle-and-bustle westside wineries – is base camp for the family, which for more than three generations has continued its California commercial cattle operation and sportsmen's club as a means to keep the family ranch in existence. More than 30 sportsmen from across the state call the Bonnheim ranch paradise and have their own campground just a short jaunt away.

It's a symbiotic relationship – along with the cattle – that defines the family's unique legacy in bovines and the creation of a profitable, sustainable endeavor gleaned from a prototypical American pastime.

Above the quaint, Spanish-style home rests is the Bonnheim's towering 8,000-acre, RANCH pg. 6

SPORTS

CENTRAL COAST SPORTS Get going, kids! (pg. 15)

Paso Robles Press P.O. Box 427 Paso Robles, CA 93447

Presorted Standard US Postage PAID Permit 163 AMS Paso Robles, CA

page 2

February 2012 North County Life

Life NORTH

COUNTY

February is here and there’s a hint of hope in the air. Days are warming up and the thought of spring – one of North County’s most gorgeous seasons – is on the horizon. This issue’s full of fresh notions, from romantic Valentine’s day ideas to the introduction of 2012’s first babies born this side of the grade. As spring blooms into its own, I encourage you to send your photos, calendar items and story ideas. Don’t forget to smell the roses when they bloom!

Hayley Thomas, Editor

NEWS: 3

COMMUNITY: 5 LOCAL BUZ Z: 8

SPORTS: 15 CALENDAR: 10

PUZZLE: 11 GOOD EATS : 12

NORTH COUNTY

Life

Published monthly by Paso Robles Press & Atascadero News Paso Robles Press P.O. Box 427 Paso Robles, CA 93447 Ph: (805) 237-6060 Fx: (805) 237-6066 www.PasoRoblesPress.com

Atascadero News 5660 El Camino Real Atascadero, CA 93447 Ph: (805) 466-2585 Fx: (805) 466-2714 www.AtascaderoNews.com

www.YourNCL.com

PUBLISHER Jason Cross jasonc@pasoroblespress.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Hayley Thomas community@pasoroblespress.com

Life

NEWS COMMUNITY SPORTS

NORTH

STAFF WRITERS Jandy Jones Creig P. Sherburne Nena Benson Heather Young Lisa Pretty Josh Petray

COUNTY

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North County Life February 2012

page 3

Oh baby! Welcoming North County’s newest Heather Young

San Luis Obispo County labor units were busy early New Year’s Day with the three major hospitals having babies born in the first eight hours of the new year.

The second baby born in the county was born to Atascadero residents Danny and Amy Foster at French Hospital at 2:32 a.m.

This is not only the couple’s second child, but their second child to be born on a holiday. Their first son, Timothy “Kyle,” 2, was born on St. Patrick’s Day. Their new addition, Riley Jay Cash, was due on Dec. 31, but waited a few hours to be born in the New Year.

“In 2012, we couldn’t be any more blessed than with this little bundle of awesome,” Danny said.

Riley was born at 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was 20 inches long.

“Riley Jay is the best little brother a boy could ask for,” Kyle said.

“He’s my best friend. I love him a lot.”

Danny graduated from North County Christian School in 1999 and Amy graduated from Atascadero High School in 2001. Danny works at Ernie Ball Guitars in San Luis Obispo as a guitar manufacturer and Amy is a massage therapist and licensed esthetician at her business, Complete Escape in Atascadero.

“We were very excited he was born at French on New Year’s,” Photo by Crystal McKinzie Kyle Foster, 2, holds his French Hospital spokeswoman Debby Nicklas said. baby brother, Riley, hours At Twin Cities Community Hospital, the first baby was born at 7:51 a.m. to Ulker after he was born on New and Kyle Crosgrove of Atascadero. Their first child, Marina, was born 20 days before Year’s Day at French her due date of Jan. 21, but was doing well.

Hospital.

“She doing well,” Ulker said. “She’s a good baby.”

Kyle was born in SLO and attended Templeton High School, graduating in 2001.

The couple met at Cal Poly, where they both majored in agriculture. Kyle graduated in 2009 and Ulker in 2010. Kyle currently works for the USDA in Templeton.

Marina was 5 pounds, 13 ounces and 19 inches long. Her parents joked that she would be a basketball player or a pro surfer.

Marina was also welcomed into the world by her grandmother, Linda Crosgrove, of Templeton.

Photo by Heather Young

Marina Crosgrove was born at Twin Cities Community Hospital on New Year’s Day to Kyle and Ulker Crosgrove.

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February 2012 North County Life

Style of the sole The Sole Tree invites women to try, twirl & socialize at downtown locale Hayley Thomas

here’s no doubt about it, Piper Sundquist enjoys the best of both worlds. She spends much of the week at her home in Santa Cruz playing wife and mother – she has a bouncing 5-year-old girl and 11-year-old step-daughter – and weekends are spent in Paso Robles surrounded by gorgeous leather shoes at her downtown shop, The Sole Tree.

The new shop, located at 835 12th street in downtown Paso Robles, celebrated a frenzied grand opening recently.

Sundquist may be a newcomer to the area, but she’s immersing herself in all things Paso.

The energetic blonde said she’s been enjoying getting to know the locals, wine tasting and socializing with her customers. Of course, she's also working hard running her dream business. It’s about a two-and-a-half hour drive, but she said it’s worth every mile.

“I love the drive," she said. "It’s so beautiful and I look forward to coming to work and getting to know everybody in Paso Robles, frequenting the restaurants and getting to know my customers."

Far from sterile or intimidating, The Sole Tree is inviting and cozy. It boasts what could be called the "anti-department store" vibe, boasting a low-pressure atmosphere, lots of gab and even fresh coffee and cupcakes from Two Birds Bakery.

“I wanted to offer a store where women felt they could come in and hang out and be amongst friends," Sundquist said. "Not like your typical shoe store, where you walk in and there's doctor seats and you sit and have your foot measured. I've never liked the feel of stores like that."

T

Sundquist said she was in Oregon when she experienced a store that truly inspired her with its with big comfy coaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Then, Sundquist and her husband spent last summer at the California MidState Fair.

That was a big turning point.

"We were walking around downtown [Paso], and my husband saw the lease at Julia's and looked at me. His eyes got wide and he said, 'Honey, that's where you should have your shoe store," said Sundquist. "I looked at him like he was crazy."

The idea rubbed off, and Sundquist was off with a bang, gathering her own market research.

"I surveyed people in the area and every women’s response was that 'We didn’t have a shoe store, but we needed one bad,'" said Sundquist, adding that most women stated their discontent over having to drive to San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara for a great pair of heels.

Two weeks after her husband made the suggestion, the couple signed a lease downtown, officially opening on Nov. 11, 2011.

Sundquist said the holidays have been good to her, but she's only as good as her shoes.

"First off, everything is leather, and that was really important to me. No cheap synthetics," she said. "A lot of the shoes are from Europe, Spain, Portugal, Italy and many are deigned in London, New York, really everywhere."

Sundquist added that her shoes boast a certain comfort and flare that women find refreshing.

"I get feedback all the time, and the number one thing women say is that my shoes are

so beautiful and so different," she said.

As for the comfort, you'll just have to try on a pair to understand.

"I stopped wearing uncomfortable shoes years ago," said Sundquist. "I tell people I would rather spend money on shoes I can wear all night long than spend half the amount and want to kick them off 10 minutes into my night."

The Sole Tree also features purses, jewelry and accessories. Sundquist said her dream has become reality, as her store has become a hangout for her own visiting friends and, of course, local women looking to put on a well-made pair of shoes.

"Groups of women come and take over the store," she said. "It's a fun meeting place."

The store is closed Mondays and open Tuesday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Photos by Hayley Thomas

PLANTING THE SEED Store owner Piper Sundquist poses at her grand opening celebration this past November. The downtown boutique has become a comfy place for women to congregate, try on a rainbow of shoes and kick back with a cupcake and a few girlfriends.

North County Life February 2012

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Zoo to You Mountain lions get dose of ' e cotude' ■

Rescued cubs join exotic North County family

Josh Petray Photos by Josh Petray

hey were found underneath a car near Burbank, famished and lowly, reported to Fish & Game and now – thanks to Paso Robles-based Zoo to You – are being weaned back to health to serve as ambassadors for environmental education.

Zoo to You, located off Adobe Road in eastside Paso Robles, is currently bringing two wild mountain lion cubs back to health.

"It's just an unbelievable, wonderful thing that happened that the people who found them did the right thing," said Zoo to You's David Jackson, who took time from his visit to a school in Portola Valley, Calif. to speak on behalf of the animals.

Jackson said that he was amazed that the animals were still alive.

Fish & Game officials in southern California transferred them to the licensed facility. Volunteers are now caring for them, bringing the young pups back to health.

They won't be released back into the wild; however, they'll serve as an important tool to educate youth across the state about the wild.

According to California Department of Fish & Game Warden Todd Tognazzini, most predators that receive human interaction to rehabilitation cannot be released back into the wild. Tognazzini said it's virtually impossible to rear them for a successful wild release, especially given the degree of human interaction that will be required to see them returned to health.

"Oftentimes (predatory) animals this small, because they are so small, cannot be released back into the wild," Tognazzini said.

Zoo to You, which has the proper permitting to handle them, fits the bill.

Jackson said Zoo To You is excited to help the mountain lion cubs and will be working hard to raise public awaness.

T

A red-tailed hawk draws curious glances from local youth. RIGHT: Local author Meg McMullen volunteers at Zoo To You.

ABOVE: a gray fox frolicks. RIGHT: A porcupine must be pet from the head, and then backwards, otherwise you might end up with a handful of spines. This animal particularly likes tubers and other crunchy snacks and tried to munch up a few before returning to her home base.

ZOO TO YOU pg. 11

Mountain lions set their glowing, yellow eyes on a hushed crowd.

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February 2012 North County Life

“We don't add complexity to our business...We're plain people. We believe in taking care of the land.” – Mike Bonnheim

Photos by Josh Petray

RANCHING FAMILY – the Bonnheim family, from left, Bo, Barbara, Mike and Michelle.

RANCH Continued from pg. 1

oak-studded property which, as Mike explains, has historically and will forever in perpetuity remain a working ranch operation.

Despite development pressures from the housing boom driving the value of the their roughly 8,000-acre ranch upwards of $10 million, a burgeoning Paso Robles wine industry and the complications that arise from tax issues, Mike is proud to provide a means to preserve his family's legacy of ranching through multiple generations.

Through the use of conservation easements, transfer development credits and the goodwill and cooperation of groups such as the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo, Bonnheim was effectively able to retire the development potential of the family land and have its value back to agricultural standard.

Bo Bonnheim, Mike's son, is attending Fresno State University studying agriculture(and playing football) and will one day assume ranch operations. Daughter Michelle is also attending Fresno State, and there is not a man her father knows who can handle a castrating knife as well as she. Mom Barbara does all of the unsung work behind the scenes and is an anchor of support.

Mike's grandfather originally purchased the land in 1919 and his father later diversified the operation to include a walnut orchard, barley farming and hunting.

Since then Mike has simplified and limited his forms of production to commercial

livestock and hunting which are the two most compatible and potentially sustainable forms employable.

Mike takes stewardship of the land seriously. He can point out every south- and north-facing slope on the property that's sprouted perennial native grasses and talk for hours on the values instilled in land conservation. It's that deep appreciation for the land that reverberates through his smile when he points out how wildlife now utilize the improvements he has made.

In fact, all decisions made on the ranch are geared toward supporting those two forms of production – commercial cattle and wildlife.

He has successfully managed the oak woodlands that dot the property, promoting diversity and transitional zones suitable for blacktailed deer bedding, wild turkey and upland game that abound on the land. He was recognized by San Luis Obispo County as “Native Tree Steward of the Year” in 2006.

"Not all ranches are like that," Mike explains about the east-west ridgeline orientation of the mountains that roll through the property, creating directly north- and south-facing slopes.

Despite the abundance of wildlife, Las Tablas Ranch chooses not to undertake a commercial hunting operation catering strickly to hunting experiences. That kind of novelty isn't what the ranch is about, nor is the complexity it creates in the operation.

Having the forms of produciton that are most potentially sustainable creates a sense of simplicity that Bonnheim said he hopes sits in harmony with the land.

"We don't want to," Bonnheim said of day hunts.

"We have avoided it, we would rather spend our time managing."

Throughout the years, the Bonnheims have at some points been together as a family working on the ranch. Now that the kids have grown up and grandfather, Don, has passed, things have changed. In the past, he admits, his father, Don, used to take a lot of the pressure and stress off him, as did his son, Bo. The little things on the ranch like checking water systems, busy work, chores that would eat up his time are now in his own lap. Now, it's basically a one-man show, but not anything Mike can't handle. Sacrifice and time management are essential when there are no ranch employees, along with the family being away, he said. It's enabled him to manage his ranch in a manner that pleases him.

"It's important to us that we make sure to simplify," Bonnheim said.

"That we don't add complexity to our business...We're plain people.

We believe in taking care of the land."

Bonnheim serves on the Upper Salinas/Las Tablas Resource Conservation District and has opened the gates of his ranch to various groups and members of the public for tours and workshops. Mike came into ranching by way of life and has no background in investment, real estate or otherwise.

"We would get up in the summertime at 2 a.m.,

feed the horses, then go back, feed ourselves and we would be saddled and on our way before sunup.

Cold mornings in the dark to get to where we needed to go to tend to the cattle before the flies started bothering them."

Once the flies arrived, cattle resort to the cover,

brush and timber nearby.

By the time lunch arrived, it meant a short respite close to a spring or somewhere shaded. They'd eat lunch, sleep or play cards until about mid-afternoon, when the cattle would come to water. Returning home by horseback in the dark was a common thing

back then.

"We're not the biggest in the world; we're not the smallest in the world. The way I see it we are a nono-nonsence, straight forward family-run ranch,” he said. “We just keep plugging away. It's the process and not just the end result that counts."

North County Life February 2012

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kicking 2012 off right Locals take the icy plunge into a new year bies were represented, as were variants of Santa Claus, wigs and hats galore, plenty of tutus and as much paint and makeup as a person could hope for.

Savanah’s dad, Rick, went to the event with his camera to take photos.

In an email, he said it was his second year doing it and the crowd was bigger this year than last.

Hundreds “[It] may have been the great of people h url themse cos pier a lves into th t noon on weather,” he wrote. “Last year it was e N ic ew Year’s y water at the pier its Da the Cayuelf, some e rainy and cold on the beach, let alone stimates p y. Including the spe ctators on ut the part jumping into the water.” y at 5,000 people.

Schmidt was in a similar situation.

He said there was no way he would jump in the frigid water, but he was Creig P. Sherburne happy to photograph his family — resplendent as they were in red-and-yellow K-Man superhero capes and hats.

The pier itself was packed with people lined up against the he big party for New Year’s Day wasn’t in railing to watch those brave enough to brave the cold water Atascadero, but at the pier in Cayucos. Many brave the cold water.

Atascadero residents, including Savanah and “You guys are so stupid,” one woman said to what apRick Evans, Kylie Brock, Phil Ketterle, Atascadero peared to be a couple of teenaged sons. “I’ll wait for you News columnist Mike Latner and most of K-Man here.”

Cycle & Run owner Keith Schmidt’s family all Savanah and her friend, Kylie, were among those who headed there for the icy plunge. went all-out for the event. The pair painted themselves up Savanah Evans, 16, said it was her first time takand waded out to their ribs. ing the plunge and it was definitely the most unique “I didn’t think it was that bad,” Savanah said. “I didn’t go New Year’s event she’s participated in. under, but I dunked my head.”

“It was really fun, there was a lot of people I didn’t think In an effort to make next year bigger and better, Savanah it would be that packed,” she said. “I didn’t think it would said she and Kylie hope to assemble a team of friends and be that fun but it was.” make the dive on New Year’s Day dressed up as a rainbow.

Festivities began at 9:30 a.m. and people from all over “I was the next in line for a certificate but they ran out,” San Luis Obispo County attended, many in costumes. Zomshe said. “I’ll just have to go next year and get one.”

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Photo courtesy of Rick Evans

Savanah Evans and Kylie Brock celebrate with a wet and freezing adventure on Jan. 1 of this year.

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page 8

February 2012 North County Life

Atascadero couple creates a sensation with clothing line Vine Street Apparel - Designed and made locally - Sold nationally

Jandy Jones

Mike and Kristi Reeves own and operate Vine Street Apparel. The couple designs and manufactures ladies clothing.

Jandy Jones

S

ewing started out as a 4-H project and grew into a life-long passion for Kristi Reeves. It is also a necessity for her job.

Reeves and her husband, Mike, own and operate Vine Street Apparel. The Atascadero couple has been designing and manufacturing clothing for the last seven years.

The company specializes in a ladies’ clothing line. The couple handles all branches of the operation from designing to overseeing the manufacturing to taking out the trash. In the end, she still feels fortunate to be able to do something she loves.

“I have been lucky just to be doing what I do,” Reeves said. “Because when you are little, you want to grow up and be a designer or whatever and when you think about it I am doing my dream.”

It is also handy that the clothing is manufactured in Nipomo. Reeves is glad to be able to live on the Central Coast and still manufacture clothing. She thought that she would have to live in Los Angeles or San Francisco in order to make her fashion design dreams come true.

“That is what scared me doing this business. I always thought I had to live in the big city,” Reeves said.

Reeves creates the designs from scratch. She travels to fabric shows to pick out material and she cuts and sews the first pattern herself. Once she has settled on an idea she has it made into a sample that can

be used for manufacturing more.

Her more popular pieces are copied into paper patterns so she can refer to them later on.

She focuses on fabric that is soft and casual but can still be appropriate in a business setting. The design process starts a year in advance. Reeves created the Spring 2012 line in Spring of 2011. The line is

launched – shown to stores – at least six months in advance. It is hard to predict what people are going to want to purchase a year in advance, she said. Reeves uses fashion resources like color predictions and trends to help inspire her designs.

Her goal is to design a “timeless fashion” that can be worn throughout several

CLOTHING pg. 11

Courtesy

Bright colors and sophisticated blouses are just a piece of the Spring 2012 line of Vine Street Apparel.

North County Life February 2012

page 9

Wine Lips & Beauty Tips Fall in love this month!

FEATURED WINERY

Jan Kris Jan Kris is a family-owned winery specializing in artisan wines from its estate vineyards on the famed Westside of Paso Robles. Jan Kris Vineyard is blessed with a rare combination of limestone soils, sun-kissed hillsides and refreshing ocean breezes that cascade through the Templeton Gap, a notch in the coastal mountains.

Jan Kris vineyards are known for growing Merlot, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Sangiovese, Petite Syrah, Petite Verdot, Chardonnay and Viognier. On Feb. 12, VINO+THERAPY will team up with Jan Kris for a “Pucker Up” event from 1 to 4 p.m. Come & enjoy some bubbles while getting pampered. Wine foot soaks, chair massages & more.

For more info call 466-8466.

February 11 J. LOHR TASTING J. Lohr Vineyards & Wine features a Valentine's Chocolate and Wine Pairing at the Paso Robles Wine Center at

3 p.m. Enjoy six types of hand-made chocolates from Sweet Earth Chocolates paired with several J. Lohr varietals. Each guest will receive a specially made box of chocolate using J. Lohr's Cabernet Sauvignon. Light hors d'oeuvres will be available following the seminar. $20 per person. Call 2398900.

CALCAREOUS VINEYARD DINNER Wine and dine with your sweetheart for Valentine's weekend. Join us for a decadent four course meal paired with our fabulous wines.

This dinner sells out fast so RSVP to john@calcareous.com. Cost is $90 per person or $70 for members. Call 239-0289.

CASS WINERY’S VALENTINE DINNER "A menu inspired by Aphrodite” - Come and experience a night of romance accompanied by tableside serenading, Cass dessert wine & Cass sparkling Grenache Noir. To purchase

by Nena Brenson

tickets please visit the Cass website. Tickets are $100 per person or $80 for members.

Call 227-2888.

EDWARD SELLERS SAX IN THE VINEYARD From 12 - 2:30 p.m. make a date with your sweetheart to celebrate Love with a romantic picnic in the Vineyard.

Let us provide the rest; wine, food, and the vineyard of course. The amazing soulful SAX sound of Scott Liddi will serenade you from the patio.

Beauty Tips Love is in the air! A spa day is a great gift idea for anyone on Valentine’s Day. Show someone you care with the gift of pampering!

Whether you prefer giving a package deal or a simple gift card, here are some local specials that are sure to please anyone. Special offers from VINO+ THERAPY Studio:

“PUCKER UP BUTTER CUP” $125 Includes: Glass of Champagne, Wine Foot Soak, Champagne Sugar Scrub Foot Treatment, Chocolate Eyebrow Wax, 60 Min Coco-Cab Facial & a Port Truffle + wine tastings at The Barrel Room.

Brought to you by Vino +Therapy Studio. The skin & body wine experience is located at 5990 El Camino Real in Atascadero.

“LET’S GO DANCING TONIGHT” $50 Includes: Glass of Champagne, Wine Foot

Scrub Foot Treatment, Port Truffle, Cheese Plate, Vino Pedicure with Chardonnay Body Butter & the works.

“HOT MAMMAS!” $125 Includes: Glass of Champagne, Wine Foot Soak, Champagne Sugar Scrub Foot Treatment, 60 Min Hot Rock Massage & Port Truffle + wine tastings at the Barrel Room.

“TOGETHER FOREVER” $225 Includes: 2 Glasses of Champagne, 2 Wine Foot Soaks, 2 Champagne Sugar Scrub Foot Treatments, 2 60 Min Vino Massages & Port Truffles + Elegant Cheese Plate & wine tastings at The Barrel Room.

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page 10

February 2012 North County Life

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Get involved, see, taste and play SATURDAY, FEB. 4

THURSDAY, FEB. 9

DAVID MATTICE FUNDRAISER Join the community as they "Race for a Cure" and celebrate family, friends and life with a barbecue and silent auction to benefit David Mattice on Saturday, Feb. 4 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the AARP building at Atascadero Lake, 7848 Pismo Ave. For more information or to donate an item or service for the silent auction, call Elizabeth at 459-2549.

WOODWORKERS MEETING The Central Coast Woodworking Association will hold their monthly meeting on Feb. 9 at 7 p.m. at the Pioneer Museum, 2010 Riverside Ave. For more information please visit www.ccwwa.org or call 2370051.

NC WATCH CELEBRATION North County Watch is celebrating 10 years of looking out for tomorrow today, and everyone is invited to join in celebrating this milestone on Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Santa Margarita Community Center, 9610 Murphy Street in Santa Margarita from 5 to 10 p.m. Dinner will be served from 6 to 7 p.m. with dancing and music till 10 p.m. A $50 tax deductible donation enables attendees to receive an elegantly table served dining experience. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.northcountywatch.org or phone Sue at 239-0542. Seating is limited for this special evening.

SUNDAY, FEB. 5 SUNDAY MOVIE NIGHT There will be a showing of the movie The Fuller Brush Man, a 1948 comedy starring Red Skelton, on Sunday, Feb. 5 at Plymouth Congregational Church, 1303 Oak St. There is no charge to attend and free popcorn is provided. For more information, contact Jim at 237-2890.

TUESDAY, FEB. 7 ART OF COOKING SERIES Il Cortile Ristorante is celebrating their second year of teaching food lovers how to make exceptional Italian dishes. The Second Annual Art of Italian Cooking Series continues on Tuesday, Feb. 7 with the opportunity to learn Executive Chef Santos MacDonal's award-winning recipes and techniques for roasting. Class time is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Il Cortile Ristorante is located at 608 12th Street in Paso Robles.

Call 226-0300 for more information.

RIBBON CUTTING A ribbon cutting for Boyd's Tobacco & Elegant Gifts, dba of JMG Retail Holdings, LLC will be held on Thursday, Feb 9 at 5 p.m. at 625 Spring St. to celebrate new owners. For more incontact formation, boyds@gmail.com or visit www.boydscigars.com.

SATURDAY, FEB. 11 SWEETHEART STROLL Atascadero Main Street will hold its annual Sweetheart Stroll in conjunction with its quarterly Art & Wine Tour on Feb. 11 from 2 to 6 p.m. in downtown Atascadero. The cost for wine tasting is $10 per person and includes a wine glass. For more information, go to www.atascaderomainstreet.org or call 462-0177.

BETHEL LUTHERAN WINEMAKERS DINNER Bethel Lutheran Church in Templeton is hosting its 11th Annual Winemakers Dinner on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Along with a decadent course menu paired with local wines, the event will feature fingerstyle guitar music throughout the evening by renowned local artist Martin Paris. For more information on Bethel Lutheran Church, please contact Pastor Amy Beveridge at 434-1329.

ELECTRONIC WASTE RECYCLING Paso Robles Public Schools will be having an Electronic Waste Recycling Day to generate funds to support technology throughout the district. Drop off your old monitors, laptops, TVs, computers, printers, stereo systems, keyboards, cell phones and all other electronic devices Saturday, Feb. 11 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Paso Robles Teacher Center, 2900 Union Road. No disposal or drop-off fees. No household appliances accepted. Call 769-1111 for more information.

SUNDAY, FEB. 12 GRANGE BREAKFAST The Paso Robles Grange will hold its monthly breakfast at the Paso Robles Grange Hall, 627 Creston Road in Paso Robles, from 7:30 to 11 a.m. This month's breakfast is scheduled for Sunday, Feb 12. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, orange juice and coffee will be served. For more information, call Lester at 238-2340 or 801-1766.

ANITA CHEN CONCERT The North SLO County Concert Association presents Anita Chen in concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 12 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 940 Creston Rd. in Paso Robles. Doors open at 2:30 p.m.

Whether it's Mozart or SaintSaens, piano or violin, Chen rewards audiences with a performance that is impressive and inspiring. For more information, call 239-2770 or 237-8122.

CHOCOLATE TASTING On Sunday, Feb. 12 from noon to 3 p.m. Vina Robles is hosting a chocolate tasting. Visit Vina Robles together with your special Valentine to enjoy an afternoon of chocolate and wine pairing.

San Luis Obispo-based Sweet Earth Chocolates will present a selection of their delectable organic and fair trade chocolate creations – each perfectly paired with a Vina Robles wine. Chocolate tasting is complimentary, no reservations required.

MONDAY, FEB. 13 HORSEMEN’S CLUB The Atascadero Horsemen's Club will meet on Feb. 13 at the ATown Diner, 7600 El Camino Real in Atascadero. An optional meeting begins at 6 p.m. followed by the program at 7 p.m. featuring a presentation by horse

MAKE TIME FOR ROMANCE There’s so much to do this Valentine’s Day, from dinner at Pear Valley Vineyard to a romantic date at Vina Robles. In the mood for something low key? Catch the Atascadero Sweetheart Stroll Saturday, Feb. 11. For more wine-related romantic ideas, see PG. 9.

trainer Eric Wagner and hypnotist Mary Kay Stegner. The general meeting will be at 8 p.m. For more information, call Jody at 703-3675 or go to www.atascaderohorsemensclub.com. Guest and prospective members are always welcome to attend.

TUESDAY, FEB. 14 VALENTINE'S DINNER On Tuesday, Feb. 14 from 6 to 10 p.m. Pear Valley is hosting a special Valentine's Day dinner. Join us at the Pear Valley for a fabulous dinner paired with Pear Valley wines. The menu includes several passed appetizers, a spinach salad with blue goat cheese polenta croutons and dried cherries, individual beef wellington with roasted vegetables and a decadent chocolate dessert. Guitarist Tom Rigby will be providing soft music to help set the mood. Reservations are required, and seating is limited to 25 couples, so call 237-2861 today. Cost is $65 per person or $45 for Distraction Club members.

VINA ROBLES V-DAY DINNER On Tuesday, Feb. 14 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Vina Robles is hosting a Valentine's winery dinner. Join us at Paso Robles' new hot spot – Estrella – for a romantic Valentine's dinner. You and your date will be greeted with a glass of sparkling wine and then seated at your table where you will enjoy a Latin-inspired four-course meal prepared by executive chef Ryan Swarthout. Cost is $80 per person or $70 for Signature Wine Club

Birthday Parties at

Playtime Discoveries are…

A creative experience with emphasis on crafts & group participation. We provide all materials for creative projects, a beautifully decorated playroom, carefully planned crafts and activities tailored to your party theme and ages of your child and guests. You bring any refreshments of your choice and paper goods and we do the rest!

The basic party includes: • 2 hrs of private playroom time • Theme of your choice • Customized crafts & activities • Balloons for each child • Decorated party space • Staff set-up and clean-up Children ages 2-8. Pricing is $135 for up to 12 children, $10 for each additional guest. Payable one week before Birthday Party Event. Add a real Princess for $50 to come and tell a story and take pictures with the children.

Theme ideas include: Princess, Legos, Fairies, Pirates, Garden Party, Tea Party, Robots Recycled Art, Starwars & more!

Visit playtimediscoveries.com 7600 Morro Road, Atascadero — (805) 462-0303

members. Reservations are strongly recommended. Call 2265406 for more information.

FRIDAY, FEB. 17 WINTER FIRESIDE CONCERT On Friday, Feb. 17 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. the February Fireside concert at Pear Valley will features Jan and Ted. The duo will entertain the crowd with acoustic country and rock. Bring a picnic dinner and your friends to Pear Valley. Wines will be available for purchase by the glass or bottle, please no outside alcohol to this complimentary event. For more information, call 237-2861.

UNA NOCHE DE AMOR On Tuesday, Feb. 14 from 6 to 10 p.m. Robert Hall Winery is hosting "una noche de amor," a Spanish evening of love, featuring a Spanish Tapas-style dinner with wine, Flamenco dancers, Spanish guitar and dancing after dinner. Cost is $95 per person or $86 for cavern members. Reservations required. Call 239-1616, ext. 24 for more information.

INDEPENDENT GRAPE GROWERS Independent Grape Growers of the Paso Robles area February social and board member elections The public is invited to a wine grape growing industry social, hosted by the Independent Grape Growers of the Paso Robles Area. IGGPRA will hold its monthly social on Friday, Feb. 17 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Templeton Legion Hall, 805 South Main St. in Templeton. Call 2268293, or online using the RSVP link at www.pasorobleswinegrapes.com.

SATURDAY, FEB. 25 CHILDREN'S MUSEUM EVENT The Mad Hatter Gets Happy Party takes place at the Paso Robles Children's Museum, 623 13th St. on Saturday, Feb. 25 from noon until nap time. Cost is $5 and includes a Dress to Impress Hat Contest, Paint the Roses Red Tea Cup Craft, refreshments and all kinds of crazy fun. Call Sarah Davis at 2387432 to RSVP and for more information.

North County Life February 2012 CLOTHING Continued from pg. 8

seasons.

Originally, Vine Street started out as basic knits that were featured in wineries and resorts, Reeves said. It was a black mesh zip-up sweatshirt that transitioned the company to the boutique fashion it is known for

page 11

today.

Vine Street Apparel is sold locally at Madonna Inn, Farm Supply, Jayde in Paso Robles, Kelly’s Causals in Atascadero as well as Upscale Resale in Templeton. Reeves feels it is important to be selective about how many stores in one area can sell the apparel.

“We like to only sell to one boutique in each town,” she said.

Courtesy

The manufacturing plant for Vine Street clothing is located in Nipomo.

Here, all of Kristi Reeves’ ideas are put into reality as vests, jackets, blouses and much more.

FARMER’S Markets Atascadero Farmer’s Market WEDNESDAYS 3PM - 6PM Albertsons parking lot Atascadero (805) 239-6535

Paso Country Farm & Craft Market SATURDAYS 9AM - 1PM 11th and Spring Streets Downtown City Park Paso Robles (805) 238-4029

Paso Robles Farmer’s Market TUESDAYS 3PM - 6PM 11th and Spring Streets Downtown City Park Paso Robles (805) 237-9254

Paso 101 Open Aire Farmer’s Market THURSDAYS 3PM - 6PM San Paso Truck Stop (off HWY 101) Paso Robles (805) 286-1436

Paso Robles Farmer’s Market FRIDAYS 4PM - 7PM Golden Hills Plaza at Lowe’s Paso Robles (805) 610-5023

Templeton Farmer’s Market SATURDAYS 9AM - 12:30PM City Park at 5th and Crocker Streets, Templeton (805) 239-6535

Her fashion talent and business skills have put Vine Street Apparel on the fashion map. It is being sold across the nation with the help of ten sales representatives. The couple is also in the process of upgrading the website to include a shopping cart for those who can’t find a store. It never fails that someone from out of the area purchases an item and wants to buy more but doesn’t have a Vine Street retailer close by, Reeves said.

When asked what the future holds for the company, Reeves said she hopes to keep expanding as well as enjoying being able to do what she loves. If someone had asked her to do it all over, she isn’t sure she would have the gumption to do it.

“If I was going to start this again, I would be scared now,” Reeves said. “I wasn’t then.”

For more information, visit www.vinestreetapparrel.us

ZOO TO YOU Continued from pg. 5

HISTORY OF MOUNTAIN LION PUP RESCUES Tognazzini, who was been working with Fish & Game since the 1980s, said he can't think of any situation where a baby mountain lion had to be rescued. However, bobcat kittens have been rescued from the wild in SLO County, and a number of calls come in regarding them.

Each year, Fish & Game averages about three to 10 incidents per year including depradation permits.

• VIEW THE MOUNTAIN LIONS PUPS Interested in seeing the mountain lion pups?

Zoo To You, 2445 Adobe Road, is open for appoint-

ments on Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m. for guided tours.

• GOING LOCAL For Jackson, working with wildlife is a labor of love, and his lifelong passion. He and the Zoo To You Crew have managed to reach national proportions but is hoping to re-shift its focus back to the place it started, right here locally in the Paso Robles and greater San Luis Obispo County areas.

Jackson said he was excited that the mountain lion experience will dovetail into this effort.

"This is really one more really great way to get back in touch," Jackson said.

For more information, visit www.zootoyou.com, call 3910604, toll-free 888-ECOTUDE or visit their Facebook page.

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February 2012 North County Life

Life

FOOD & WINE

Courtesy photos

Estrella fuses the bold, tasty flavors of Spain, South America and the Caribbean to create “Latin Riviera,” a taste to be savored with friends.

LEFT: Estrella Chef de Cuisine Travis Borba and Executive Chef Ryan Swarthout gear up for a busy service.

Estrella’s Latin Riviera Vibrant new restaurant brings exotic culinary destination to downtown Paso Robles

Hayley Thomas

whirlwind romp through Madrid or the Caribbean islands likely isn’t in the cards for many locals this year, but the folks at Estrella aim to offer the next best thing.

Vibrant, flavorful entreés, a wild list of imported beer and wine and fiery Flamenco tunes combine to create an exotic dining fiesta that starts at the curb and continues till the final bite.

The hotspot, located at 815 12th St. in Paso Robles reeently, bringing its own exotic sizzle to the downtown dining scene.

Executive Chef Ryan Swarthout and Chef de Cuisine Travis Borba masterminded the colorful menu, which features everything from pan roasted chicken mojo to grilled prawn tacos and Argentinean-style grilled rib eye.

The result is what's being called “Latin Riviera:” A fun fusion of Caribbean, South American and Mexican cuisine. The finish is bold and fresh, featuring more abundant flavors than you’d taste at your average taco joint. Quality fish, pork, chicken and beef are always prepared with a tangy twist.

Savory, spicy elements like Saffron-infused Cuban rice, avocado tomatillo sauce, authentic queso fresco and coconut-green chili glaze pack

A

a punch. The paella simmers with Spanish rice, white wine, chorizo-steamed mussels, clams, prawns and scallops.

“The food respects certain regions, but we aren’t doing traditional food. It’s our take on certain dishes, or a sauce from a different region that we made our own,” said Executive Chef Swarthout. “That’s what Estrella is all about. From the interior to the food, we want your experience to be fun and lively.”

That vibe emanates throughout the restaurant, from the lack of tablecloths to the multicolored napkins springing from shiny glasses. Colorful ceramic sinks adorn the bathrooms and mission-style wooden crosses compliment the exposed brick and mangohued walls.

An outdoor patio area overlooks Downtown City Park and the breezy, highceiling dining room provides a true sit-down and-savor experience. Luxe, leather chairs and the only mezzanine-level seating in downtown certainly feel opulent, but at $15 to $25 a plate, it’s a luxury not out of reach.

For the true foodie, Estrella will soon feature chef dinners just a stone’s throw away from the bustling, state-of-the-art kitchen.

Chef de Cuisine Borba

knows that a restaurant is only as good as its fare, and he keeps a keen eye on each plate.

“I’ve been researching this style of food for a long time, and when I got the opportunity to do this I ran with it. I just started cooking away,” Borba said. The chefs spent months tweaking the menu, getting real

feedback from tasters and applying that knowledge to their third, fourth and fifthtries. It took about six tries to get a particular chicken dish just right, but that’s par for the course when it comes to creating a quality dining experience.

Thanks to his Mexican roots, Borba was able to bring a few family recipes to

“From the interior to the food, we want your experience to be fun and lively.”

Ryan Swarthout, Estrella Executive Chef

the table. He spent about a month in the kitchen getting the flavors as authentic as possible.

“The slow braised short rib enchiladas and braised beef tamales are basically my grandma’s recipe. I changed them up a little bit, and I hope she approves,” he said with a chuckle. “Seeing all the food on the table [for tasting] is really nice.

It’s really colorful and fun.”

If you’re not into sharing, beware, as Swarthout said it’s hard to resist poking a fork into your neighbor’s tequila-lime marinated prawns or Plantain crusted Mahi Mahi. The chile relleno – with roasted poblano chiles stuffed with a choice of roasted corn and crab, queso fresco or picadillio pork – is decadent down to the last bite.

“You are going to have a tough time deciding what to order, and when everybody orders something different and shares those dishes, it goes along with what we’re trying to do with creating a fun environment,” Swarthout said.

Brenda Clouston owns the business alongside her husband, Robert. She said customers are encouraged to come hungry. They’ll likely leave with a doggie bag for later.

“People keep telling me they can’t believe how much food they get for their

money, and that makes us feel good because we can deliver a value,” Clouston said. “That’s the whole philosophy of what we are trying to do. We always want to over deliver. We want people to be wowed by the interior, wowed by the food, wowed by the pricing and then go away and tell people about it.”

Clouston said it all comes down to cultivating a feel-good vacation vibe.

“I want people to feel like they’re away somewhere,” she said. The crew at Estrella is dedicated to keeping the fantasy going.

After all, most vacations are primarily spent socializing, sipping great wine and digging into fun food with friends.

“One of the things we felt passionate about was that from the curb all the way to your last bite of your meal, it’s all thematic and it all goes together,” she said.

“Whether it’s the décor, the food, the wine list, the service or the music, it all goes together. We want peple to feel like they’re having a vacation experience.”

Estrella is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 5 to 10 p.m. for dinner.

For more information, call 226-5406.

North County Life February 2012 ROMANCE Continued from pg. 1

meal for two and then cozy up with someone special on the couch, in front of a fire, with a glass of wine.

When I think of romantic

wineries, the top of my list is Robert Hall Winery located on Mill Road just off of Highway 46 East in Paso Robles. Everything about the winery screams romance.

The winery’s owner, Robert Hall, had many years in the hospitality industry prior to

page 13 planting vineyards and building the state-of-the-art winery facility. The hospitality center and surrounding grounds were designed with weddings, elegant dinners and casual picnics in mind.

Robert’s partner, Margaret Burrell, a retired art teacher

Chocolate Crème Brûlée Serves 8

THIS VALENTINE’S DAY, MAKE A SWEET TREAT! 3 cups heavy cream 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ¾ cup fine sugar 6 large egg yolks 8 teaspoons golden raw sugar

re ci p e

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

• Arrange eight 3/4-cup ramekins in a 12x9x2-inch baking pan.

• Place cream in a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom and over low heat, bring to simmer. Stir in chocolate and simmer until chocolate has melted then remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

• Whisk sugar and yolks in a large bowl until thick (about three minutes).

Gradually whisk in the hot cream mixture. Let stand for 10 minutes.

• Pour mixture through strainer and divide among ramekins.

• Pour enough hot water into the pan to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins to ensure even baking.

• Bake until just set (about 50 minutes). Remove from pan and chill, uncovered for 2 hours. Cover and refrigerate for an additional two hours or overnight.

• Sprinkle raw sugar on top and melt with a torch to form a crispy sugar topping. Refrigerate for an additional one to two hours.

from Arizona, worked with artist Steve Kalar to ensure every detail was completed with elegance and style.

Kalar’s painting can be viewed on the walls, ceilings and even the floors.

Nestled amongst the vines and large oak trees, the center welcomes visitors with the sound of trickling water from a large fountain.

Beyond the fountain the water features continue with a long reflecting pool located just outside of the tasting room doors and another cascading fountain in the center of the amphitheater’ bench seating area. From any point in the courtyard, views of fountains, fresh flowers and beautiful archways can be viewed. In addition to the sound of water, soft music is piped through the sound system, offering yet another special touch.

The winery is a very popular spot for weddings with several different on-site venues. According to Hospitality Manager, Kristin Odenwald, couples planning their weddings are always delighted to see they can offer their guests a different setting for each part of the big day. The Garden Terrace, Courtyard, Grassy Knoll, Meritage Room and Wine Caverns are all available for cocktails, ceremonies, dinner and receptions. The Wine Li-

brary is ideal for brides to get ready surrounded with the room’s rich decorations and several vintages of wine.

Needless to say the facility is a photographers dream with so many places to choose with idyllic settings.

This Valentine’s Day the Meritage Room will be transformed into a Spanish dinner and dance room. The winery is hosting “una noche de amor,” a Spanish evening of love, on February 14th from 6-10pm. A Spanish Tapas-style dinner will be paired with Robert Hall wines for this very romantic evening. Cuatro Caminos from San Francisco will provide entertainment with a traditional Flamenco Dance Show along with Spanish guitar music.

After dinner, the guests are welcome to join Cuatro Caminos on the dance floor.

The all inclusive evening is $95 per person or $85 for cavern club members. Reservations are required and at that time you may request a table for two or group seating. Reservations may be on-line at made www.roberthallwinery.com or by calling Kristin at 2391616 extension 24.

It doesn’t have to be a wedding or Valentine’s Day to enjoy romance at the winery. A visit to the tasting room with a guided tour of

the large underground wine caverns and barrel tasting can be a very romantic date.

Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the vineyard views from the Garden Terrace or perhaps a game of Bocce Ball on one of the courts by the grassy knoll. You may catch Robert and Margaret enjoying a glass of wine or tending to the roses on the property. After all these years, romance is still a big part of their daily lives and what better place to enjoy it than at their winery.

I decided my recipe this month had to be chocolate.

Chocolate and romance seem to go together. I had a more difficult time selecting the wine. Margaret’s Vineyard Orange Muscat and Robert Hall’s Vintage Port both pair well with my Chocolate Crème Brûlée.

In the end, I decided to go with the vintage port. Although there are several wonderful port-style wines produced in the Paso Robles area, very few are made exclusively from the traditional Portuguese varietals. The Robert Hall 2006 Vintage Port is made from estate grown alvarelhão, touriga, souzão and tinta cão.

The port is so good you may want to sip a glass with your sweetheart even without the chocolate.

page 14

February 2012 North County Life

North County Life February 2012

Life

page 15

SPORTS Photos by Jandy Jones

FIT FUN FOR KIDS – Warming up is important at the Central Coast Sports Agility camp.

Participants are taught how to properly warm up and stretch before training or playing sports.

Central Coast Sports Agility gains speed, popularity CCSA focuses on teaching children sports skills, education all while having a ball Jandy Jones

T

he morning chill can’t stop the laughter and enthusiasm of the young boys preparing for a Saturday of training.

It’s all smiles and fun but when it comes down to training the serious faces come out.

The boys are participating in Central Coast Sports Agility (CCSA). The youth, ranging in ages seven and up, are here to learn and expand their football skills, agility and speed.

The camp is in its third season and was started by Anthony Capelli. Capelli, father of five, started the camp with the idea of teaching his own children how to not

only be better athletes, but prepare them for upperlevel sports and academics.

As word traveled around, the camp grew to about 30 participants in the first season. The second season averaged around 100 – it is not mandatory to participate in every session – and the third is just getting started.

Capelli, along with nine other coaches, instruct and educate the children. It isn’t necessary for the children to have previous sports skills or experience, just the will to learn and succeed. Capelli feels that more important than educating the children on sports, is giving the children a place to have fun, learn and be safe.

“We are taking recreation players and turning them into athletes.”

– Coach Jim Green “Our main key of what this camp is about is bringing the kids here instead of out having them out on the street,” Capelli said.

This is the first year the camp includes softball. The first two seasons were primarily football skills, but Capelli said they are willing to expand if the children want to learn.

T h e focus is on increasing speed and agility while also including technical skills related to football or softball. Capelli said he

isn’t as familiar with the fundamentals of softball, but was able to modify some football drills for the girls.

All sessions are held in Paso Robles. The softball camp meets Mondays and Wednesdays and football meets Tuesdays and Thursdays and Saturdays are track day. The groups are generally split up by age so that each group gets the attention they deserve.

The camp also focuses on the discipline necessary to play sports but

Photos by Jandy Jones

LET’S GO! Jumping sideways over obstacles helps with agility and coordination. This was just one challenge in a series of four that the boys had to complete.

ABOVE: At the end of the drill the boys practiced hitting a shield. The coaches create drills that will incorporate different skills to help prepare the boys for football.

RIGHT: While running through a ladder drill, the boys also had to catch a football.

also do well academically.

Academics are just as important as improving on sports skills. Capelli is passionate about helping the children improve and maintain grades. He stresses that colleges look not only at sports talent but academics as well.

“The camp is about unity and bringing the kids together and having a place where they can come and better themselves for the future,” Capelli said.

As intense as it may sound, the coaches still want the children to have fun while learning.

“We are taking recreation players and turning them into athletes,” Coach Jim Green said.

“We teach due diligence, but still have fun in the

end.”

Green’s son, Thomas, is in his second season of the camp. Thomas said his favorite part was running the timed 40 yard dash.

“It shows how fast I am,” he said.

The camp is teaching the children how to set goals and prepare for their future. As far as the future of the camp, Capelli hopes that they will be able to expand by bringing in others sports and coaches.

He also aspires to have session in the South County. CCSA is also holding a fundraiser on February 18 to help raise funds to buy equipment.

For more information, call 610-3621 or check out CCSA Camp on Facebook.

page 16

February, 2012 North County Life

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Locally Owned and Operated In SLO County Paso Robles Main 238-0715 Food 4 Less, Paso Robles 237-1460 Target Center, Paso Robles 237-1083

Atascadero 466-0490 San Luis Obispo 543-3245 Arroyo Grande 489-1414

Cambria 924-1027 Morro Bay 772-9550 Los Osos 534-9575