APRIL 2012
Life
Barnyard fun
Spring Fling
Shandon Ag Day
Paso Children’s Museum & more See Calendar (pg.10)
NORTH
COUNTY
Got [goat] milk?
Jandy Jones Jandy Jones is a fifth generation San Luis Obispo County native and calls Creston home. She has a degree in journalism from Cal Poly and a passion for agriculture. Jandy enjoys exploring the county along with her husband and two dogs.
bring on the local livestock show! Jandy Jones
or people who are already fond of goat’s milk, it’s easy to understand why it’s sometimes called “the white elixir.” Not so sure what the fuss is about? You’ll have your chance to get up close and personal with the fourlegged personalities at the the Mid-State Dairy Goat on Saturday, May 19 at the Paso Robles Even Center. Breeders spanning the state will join together with locals to put their skills to
F FACE TIME: Dairy goats will take over the Paso Robles Event Center in May.
(pg.8)
the test in showmanship, evaluation and – hopefully – the almighty Champion’s Challenge. In the goat world, females are known as “does,” males as “bucks,” and youngsters are called “kids,” Mid-State Dairy Goat Show committee member Kathy Vieira explained. Dairy goats are famous for their milk among other items. Goats have been used for meat, as well as their hides but it is still the
F OOD
REFRESH Shrimp & Shale Oak (pg. 12)
FEATURE
GOATS pg. 6 Contributed photo
Spring to bring liquid gold Brewer aims to bring bold flavors to Atascadero Colony District STARS COME OUT In Atascadero
Jon Bartel Jon Bartel is a local poet and songwriter who lives in Atascadero with his wife, two sons, and eight chickens. He teaches composition and rhetoric at Cal Poly. He is also a lover and critic of fine beer, which makes him perfectly suited for this article.
(pg. 5)
FITNESS Jon Bartel
here is no disputing that North San Luis Obispo County’s cup is overflowing with lush rolling terrain, oak woodlands, friendly folk and, most notably, wine. The hills and valleys of Paso Robles and the Templeton Gap are dotted with exceptional wineries, and tourists and residents alike take full advantage of both the breathtaking
T
views and the wide variety of vino that the area has come to be known for. But just a bit south of these landmarks lays Atascadero, right at the border of the wine lands. Indeed, for years the little town of 28,000 has sat and watched as her northern neighbors basked in their newfound liquid livelihood, and asked what she could do to contribute to the meteoric rise PITCHER pg. 13
Photo by Jon Bartel
BREW WITH A PASSION – Kendall Bryson, 30, is about to open a microbrewery in Atascadero dedicated entirely to American craft beer. He’s calling it Molly Pitcher Brewing Company, in honor of the women who, according to legend, bravely hauled buckets of water (and perhaps something a bit stronger) to the Continental Soldiers fighting on the front lines during the American Revolution.
VOLLEYBALL It’s in Doug’s blood (pg. 15)
Paso Robles Press P.O. Box 427 Paso Robles, CA 93447
Presorted Standard US Postage PAID Permit 163 AMS Paso Robles, CA
April 2012 North County Life
page 2
Life NORTH
COUNTY
Dear readers, Well, the weather has been good to us and spring is popping up everywhere you look. From the fields to the vineyards to the backyard, life is renewing itself and it’s great to have you with us for the ride. I am excited to introduce a new writer to the North County Life family, Mr. Jon Bartel. He’s a Cal Poly professor, local musician and a vital member of the community. You’ll be seeing more of him as the months roll on into summer. We’d love to see your springtime pictures of North County!
NEWS: 3
COMMUNITY: 4 LOCAL BUZ Z: 8
Looking forward to hearing from you. SPORTS: 14 Hayley Thomas, Editor, North County Life
CALENDAR: 10
community@pasoroblespress.com
PUZZLE: 11 GOOD EATS : 12
NORTH COUNTY
PUBLISHER Jason Cross jasonc@pasoroblespress.com
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
EDITOR IN CHIEF Hayley Thomas community@pasoroblespress.com STAFF WRITERS Jandy Jones Creig P. Sherburne Nena Benson Heather Young Lisa Pretty Josh Petray Judy Bedell Jon Bartel
Life
NEWS COMMUNITY SPORTS
NORTH
COUNTY
Visit us on www.facebook.com/northcountylife Follow us on www.twitter.com/northcountylife
North County Life April 2012
page 3
Brewhouse bistro fare at The Taproom Firestone serves up a mouth-watering menu alongside beloved beers
Josh Petray
F
irestone Walker Brewing Company has distilled quite a niche for itself in the international micro-brew scene. Headquartered in Paso Robles, its selections of finely-crafted brews are distributed and enjoyed by beer-lovers around the globe. Now, years after its first pour, Firestone Walker is tapping into the epicurean Central Coast scene with the launch of its second restaurant ,aptly dubbed The Taproom, at 1400 Ramada Drive, smack-dab in the heart of Paso Robles wine country. As an extension of co-proprietors Adam Firestone and David Walker's brewing philosophy using only the finest, freshest ingredients prepared with care and presented from a distinctively regional perspective, The Taproom pairs nicely with Paso Robles' celebration of the culture of food, wine and beer. It officially opened on Thursday, March 15. The Taproom blends traditional California cuisine with other influences to create what Walker calls "brewhouse bistro cooking." Its signature dishes include grilled pork chops brined and prepared with a DBA beer mustard demi-glaze served with sweet potato fries and sauteéd broccolini; Beto's fish tacos made with crispy halibut, avocado and paprika lime dressing and served with jicama fruit salad; a Taproom burger with Kobe beef topped with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, caramelized onions and
chipotle mayo on a potato bun; and the 805 Salad made with fresh, locally-sourced organic greens tossed with shallot thyme vinaigrette and topped with goat cheese and crostini. The menu also includes five different woodoven pizzas, including a steak and cheddar pizza and portabella mushroom pizza. Firestone Walker arguably has a penchant for its high-caliber, uncompromising dedication to quality. The Taproom is no different. Drivers along Highway 101 may have done a double-take at the line of cars along Ramada Drive situated during construction. Keep looking and you'll see that not far away, emblazoned on its exterior wall, are its emblematic lion seen on its bottles – a symbol of royalty – and a California bear. Take one step inside Firestone's new restaurant, and there is plenty of eye candy. From its outside seating area with a roughly 80-person capacity flanked by a fire pit and water fountain, the eight outdoor tap handles that “water” its guests there, to the mini-bottling line that circles Firestone beers overhead at its bar crafted from a stainless steel brewing tank, the industrialized, modern look lends a uniquely Firestone flair. Spacious ceilings complement a streamlined, modern ambiance that echoes the brewery environment. Brushed steel, corrugated metal, rustic wood and copper appointments adorn the ample dining area. A deconstructed brewing tank serves as the entrance to the
Photos by Josh Petray
SO, SO GOOD – clockwise from top, grilled pork chops brined and prepared with a DBA beer mustard demi-glaze, Sushi grade Yellowfin Tuna, panko crusted with black pepper and sesame seeds seared to perfection and a mocha reserve brownie sundae is icing on the cake for the traditional California cuisine offered at The Taproom.
restrooms, where pictures from the Paso Robles Oaktoberfest depict Brewmaster Matt Brynildson garbed in a German outfit tapping into a barrel of Firestone ale. The floor of the tank serves as the host station. There's more than enough room inside of the roughly 7,500square-foot interior to seat in excess of 230 patrons. Wander deeper inside The Taproom and you're likely to encounter a nod to the historical roots that have defined the Fire-
Fresh from the tap The Taproom is open for dinner daily from 5 to 9 p.m. at 1400 Ramada Drive in Paso Robles. The Taproom accepts reservations at 225-5911 ext. 800. For more information, visit www.FirestoneBeer.com.
stone legacy. Original Firestone Union oak barrel brewing system components are mounted on the far wall, surrounded by statuesque depictions of its branded emblems. Booths and tables, as well as long-table seating, situate patrons side by side for a community dining experience harmonious with the small town roots wherein its headquarters lie. It was all built – just like its beers – from the hands of local craftsmen. The ownership takes pride in just that, staying true to its roots. Ingredients reflect that desire for a community-minded locavore experience. Local featured ingredient providers include Windrose Farm, Thomas Hill Organics, Olea Farm olive oil and Joebella Coffee Roasters. According to the co-proprietors, that list will only expand with time. Themed dinner selections are offered each night. The restaurant features a broad selection of Firestone Walker beers including longtime favorites such as DBA, Pale 31 and Union Jack, as well as Proprietor's Reserve offerings such as Walker's Reserve and Wookey Jack. Taproom-only offerings include UDBA (unfiltered DBA) and Hefeweizen. The Taproom wine list is
composed exclusively of Central Coast wines. Brewmaster Matt Brynlidson has developed friendships with numerous winemakers whom he has conscripted into his annual blending team for crafting the brewery's acclaimed anniversary ales. "The motto at the brewery is 'fresh and local,' and we want that to be reflected in our dishes and wine list as well," said General Manager Rob Giesler. According to Giesler, going local is simply better as a whole – more healthy and keeping revenue in the community. In addition, the wine list is intended to be high-quality, as well as local. Most of all, it's all about the quality. "I think what David and Adam have laid down before about the quality of product that they put out for everyone – I think the menu is tied to that. A lot of time and effort is spent on the quality of food that we're trying to put in front of everybody," Giesler said. All of its big plates are entrees that have a suggested pairing to really bring out the flavor. "We're infusing a lot of our beer into our ingredients into the cooking process to really match what we do in the kitchen," Giesler said.
page 4
April 2012 North County Life LOCAL PROFILE
M a p p i n g Paso for the world Jack Erhart recognized by Google for hundreds of hours of service enriching Paso’s online identity Hayley Thomas
P
ull up Google maps and type in “Paso Robles, California.” Now zoom in on downtown. You’ll see familiar roads and perhaps even your own home. You’ll also see a lot of little blue dots. When a user clicks on a dot, a whole world of information opens up. Click on Piazza Bistro at 1421 Spring St. and you’ll not only get the phone number, but you’ll be privy to customer reviews, a “street-level” view with updated photographs and – most importantly – step-by-step driving directions. This useful information can be pulled up at your home computer, vehicle navigation system or your smart phone. But who creates these dots and manages the multitudes of content? Google recently recognized Paso Robles local Jack Erhart for his contributions to the Google maps world. Google spokeswoman Deanna Yick talked about the ways citizen cartographers are leading the way in participatory mapping. "The people who live in, work in, or often visit a particular area know best the detailed information about these neighborhoods and the changes that happen there. With Google Map Maker, anyone can directly and almost immediately contribute their knowledge to improve the comprehensiveness and
accuracy of Google Maps and Google Earth for the benefit of millions across the globe,” said Yick. “We’re very appreciative of citizen cartographers like Jack Erhart, who are passionate and enthusiastic about sharing their local expertise and working together with us to map communities around the world."
“From mapping buildings downtown to mapping the Pebble Beach Golf Course, he’s really enriched the map data of Paso Robles as only a local could do.” - Gabby Parada
Google recently released the free Map Maker tool, and it is ushering in a new era of participatory mapping where “everyone can share their local knowledge about the places they know best, and see those contributions reflected to the millions of people using Google Maps within minutes,” according to Google representative Gabby Parada. “There are citizen cartographers across the world who have added extraordinary detail to Google Maps internationally and in their hometowns,” added Parada. “From mapping buildings downtown to mapping the Pebble Beach
Golf Course, he’s really enriched the map data of Paso Robles as only a local could do.” Erhart is the owner of Jax 3D Graphics and Design in Paso Robles. He’s been working on building that business for the past three years. Before, Erhart and his wife owned a coffee shop on 10th Street in Paso Robles. “I got involved with Google because I use all their tools,” said Erhart. “As a small business owner, doing all the things we needed to do to promote my business, that got me moving in that particular direction.” His mapping began about a year-and-a-half ago, when Erhart realized pairing businesses with Google maps was good for both entities. That grew into a unique business model poised for a truly Webcentric age. “I use the mapping techniques to get [my clients] in good geographical health,” said Erhart. “Businesses need to be known by the Google algorithm that is searching for them.” Erhart said search results have moved from worldwide to a more local focus. Users looking for pizza aren’t interested in the best slice in New York, but they may be very interested in finding a local Italian deli. “If a business doesn’t have accurate geographical information like the right telephone number, address or even being visual with maps, they’re missing out. It’s vital
Experience award-winning Wine Country hospitality Ranked Top 1% in the Americas by both our Guests, and InterContinental Hotels Group
Boutique Ambiance | Customized Service | Brand Consistency Complimentary Hot Breakast – Now with Pancakes! • Heated Outdoor Pool & Spa Free Wi-Fi + High Speed Internet Access • Fitness Center • Business Center • Priority Club Points or Miles Corporate, Group + Extended Stay Rates • Event + Meetings Space Available
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES OF ATASCADERO 9010 West Front Road, Atascadero, CA 93422 t: 805.462.0200 | f: 805.462.0201 | hiexpress.com
Photo by Hayley Thomas
YOUR BUSINESS ON THE MAP – Citizen mapper Jack Erhart helps get local businesses visible on the map – Google Maps, that is. His business, Jax 3D Graphics & Design aims at delivering strategically created content and simple, but accurately created 3D models designed to promote local businesses.
for businesses now to have that,” Erhart said. “In 80 percent of searches, people are searching for something local, so if the local businesses don’t have optimization locally, they’re missing out on a huge part of their business.” Erhart creates 3D models for his businesses, which are then connected to Google Earth. He also manages and edits his clients’ Google Places pages, providing a free
listing for local businesses. “What I started doing was modeling buildings for people so the information about the model was about their business and their information for their business would always come up when a user clicked on the model,” said Erhart. The models are created in Google’s free sketch up program. The mapper is not unac-
customed to eyes glazing over when he talks about the nuances of the abstract online world. However, what Erhart delivers for his clients is tangible. Better information means more customers over time. “That’s how my business actually started, as I started to see the importance of geographical information,” said Erhart. “I get [businesses] visible on the map.”
North County Life April 2012
page 5
Dancing with A tascadero’s stars Locals kick up their heels to raise $70,000 for Friends of the Library Foundation Heather Young
I
n its third year, the Atascadero Friends of the Library’s Atascadero: Dancing With Our Stars raised more than $70,000 last month.
The four-hour event, which featured local stars, raised money in the two months leading up to the dancing competition. Jeannie Malik of Greg Malik Real Estate and Fifth District Supervisor Jim Patterson won first place with 3,214 votes. Malik said the pair raised more than $17,000. Second place went to Kelly Long of Kelly’s Casuals and instructor Dan Davis, who received 2,617 votes. California Highway Patrol Capt. Bill Vail and Sharon Davis got 982 votes. “All of the dancers gave outstanding performances,” event coordinator Eileen O’Grady said. Malik and Patterson also received the People’s Choice Award for getting the most votes during the event. The stars weren’t judged based on their dancing skills, but rather on their fundraising abilities. Votes were $5 each up until 5 p.m. on Friday. After that, votes were $10 each. The rest of stars for the 2012 event were the Rev. Rich Kurrasch, Councilman Brian Sturtevant, Cal Poly Professor Mike Latner, Friends of the Library member Christina Lefevre Latner, Molly and Giovanni Comin of Central Coast Seafood, San Gabriel Road Elementary School Principal Chris Balogh and Flippin’ Flappers. The instructors for the 2012 event were Dan, Sharon and Ellen Davis, Kari Wastun, Frank Sanchez and Judie Magonacelaya. The Flippin’ Flappers, led by Dan Davis, was made up of life enrichment coach Nancy Cohn, Templeton High School student Josh Burke, THS student Zoey Bond, THS exchange student Debora De Stefano and THS exchange student Bohdan Nikiporets. While the group raised $70,000 from its most recent event, it is still $200,000 away from its goal. Two more events are planned for the next several months: Total Look Salon, 4307 El Camino Real in Atascadero, will host “Colors of Art” featuring Mandy Weathers on Friday, April 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The Friends of the Library will hold the second annual Central Coast Children’s Classic on Saturday, June 23 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Portola Inn. Donations can be sent directly to Friends of the Library, P.O. Box 9, Atascadero, CA 93423. Additional information is available at www.atascaderofriendsofthelibrary.org.
photos by Heather Young
Above, Christina and Mike Latner shake a tail feather at the third annual Atascadero: Dancing With Our Stars on Saturday at the Atascadero Pavilion on the Lake. Below, Dance instructor Sharon Davis and California Highway Patrol Commander Bill Vail perform a fun Mambo.
Kelly Long of Kelly’s Casuals dances the Samba with instructor Dan Davis. The spirited dance partners won second place.
page 6
April 2012 North County Life
Templeton Eagles have flown the coop ■
THS Mock Trial Team wins county, places ninth at state photos courtesy of Stephan Van Harmelen
Heather Young
A
fter practicing and scrimmaging since September 2011, the Templeton High School Mock Trial Team got its 10th county title in the last 14 years in February when it defeated defending champion San Luis Obispo High School. On March 23, the team placed ninth at the state competition. “The victory this year is particularly gratifying because our team was so young and the competition in our county was so tough,” teacher-coach Scott Lewis said. “Two-thirds of our team had no experience with high school mock trial, but they pulled it out. We are very proud.” The competition is open to all mock trial teams from the county. This year, Lewis said there were six different teams competing in the high school competition. The competing schools were THS, SLOHS, North County Christian School, Pacific Beach High
GOATS Continued from pg. 1
milk that draws many people to these critters. The milk has been considered a “white elixir” because it is easily digested, making it tolerable to sensitive stomachs, Vieira said. “Worldwide, more goat milk and goat meat is consumed than any other of the domesticated livestock,” Vieira said. The goats are classified into three sub-categories and are based on how they serve man. A dairy goat is one that will produce enough milk to feed her offspring as well as some extra for man, she said. The meat goat, like a boer goat, pro-
THS mock trial student Jon Van Harmelen appears as an expert at the county competition in February. Templeton will compete in its 10th state contest.
School in SLO, Arroyo Grande High School and Mission Prep. At the state competition, THS was one of 32 schools. THS won three trills and lost only one, which was against the defending state champion and the 2012 champion, La Reina High School from Thousand Oaks. "It is only the second time a team from SLO county had gone 3-1 and finished in the top 10," Lewis said. THS last went to state in 2010,
duce enough milk to feed her kids, which will eventually go into the food supply. The last is the fiber goat, like cashmere or angora goats, and when they are shorn, their hair or fiber goes to make clothing for people, she said. “One type produces the milk for man, one produces the meat for man and the other produces fiber,” Vieira said. “They are pretty efficient creatures.” It is these unique characteristics that bring people like Vieira to show the multifunctional animal. The Mid-State Dairy Goat show is sanctioned by the American Dairy Goat Association. Owners and their animals awarded from this show will be able to put the accomplishments on their
where it took eighth place, which was the highest finish ever for a SLO County team. Two THS students were named as individual state champions. At the county competition, THS won several individual awards. Senior Kate Ashley was named Best Pre-trial Lawyer for the second consecutive year. First year team member Ashwini Ganpule won the Best Defense Witness award for her “emotional portrayal” of the defendant. Senior Sarah Merson and first-year participant Patience Wilcox received certificates for their “dynamic and aggressive performances” as prosecution lawyers, and junior Jon Van Harmelen was honored for his role as the “quirky and brilliant coroner.” The team begins practicing two times a week after school in September and continues through its last competition of the season. The county competition is held early in the year, followed by the state competition in March.
permanent records. This gains the owners and their goats ground in several areas. The utmost being breeding and selling and the other is “legs.” Legs in the dairy goat show world refer to championships, Vieira said. Once a goat receives four legs it is considered a permanent champion. With permanent championships come perks. As a permanent champion, the goat can compete at a show in just the Champion’s Challenge and isn’t required to partake in all the days ‘classes. The Champion’s Challenge will pair off the day’s champions against permanent champions. The judging of the animals is a complex process and requires certain skills
and expertise. This show will be officiated by two AGDA-sanctioned judges, Amy Akramoff and Scott Bice. Both are heavily involved in the dairy goat industry. Akramoff travels around the States judging shows and Bice is a herd manager at Redwood Hill Farm in Sonoma County, Vieira said. These judges will be looking at all aspects of the animals as well as how well some show their goats. In junior showmanship, the
The babies, or “kids,” are friendly and full of spunk. Perched above her own goat house, this kid curiously checks the surroundings.
From left, Sarah Merson and Patience Wilcox play the prosecution attorneys at the county competition in February.
youngsters are scored on how well they present their animal. On the opposite end there is the Senior Doe class, which is classified as a female that is at least a year old and milking, which judges the animal, not the presenter, she said. “They are evaluated on the package that the doe presents from her feet to her head to her udder; all should be conducive to producing milk,” Vieira said. Quite a few local dairy goat breeders will present
their stock at this show. Jamie Schmitz of Templeton will show her milking does as well as several kids. She has been raising dairy goats for several years and looks forward to the show every May. The show has been happening for several decades and is open to the public. Admission is free, so come down and see what the dairy goat industry is all about. For more information visit www.midstatedairy goatshow.com.
Photos by Jandy Jones
EYES ON THE PRIZE – Locals like Jamie Schmitz will compete at the Mid-State Dairy Goat show in Paso this May. Pictured, Schmitz, with her goat Diva, is ready to test her skills against other breeders.
North County Life April 2012
page 7
Theater 3: Not your average gig Musician Caleb Landon talks life, Highlands Church and his love for the community
Hayley Thomas
ighlands Church began humbly, with the first congregation members huddled into theater three at the Park Cinemas. Services always included music – and not just your average organ. Eight years and a brand-new church later, music is still a big part of the Highlands experience. Just ask Caleb Landon, director of worship arts and front man of the Christian rock band (aptly named) Theater 3. Landon and his revolving door of local musicians rock out before each sermon as well as on scheduled worship nights, which kick off the second Sunday of each
H
month. Landon, 28, plays guitar, keys and sings. A preacher’s son, Landon grew up in Long Island, New York. After completing his undergraduate degree, he moved to Virginia to pursue music. He received a Masters Degree in Worship Arts, a major that combined his love of music and theology. “I think we are part of a bigger story, and that’s what I try to communicate,” said Landon. “We play a very important role, but it’s not just about our own lives; it’s something much bigger. Through music, you have the ability to impact people. Music and the arts have the ability to influence people in extraordinary ways.” The Christian music circuit has embraced Landon since the very beginning. As a college student, Landon toured the eastern seaboard, always reaching to connect with new audiences. He’s rocked small, down-home congregations as well as large conferences packed with thousands of attendees. When Landon couldn’t find Christian venues to play, he’d break out the U2, Train and Coldplay covers. Theater 3 still continues to play familiar tunes, but there’s also an emphasis on creating original songs that bring on spiritual awareness and joy. “Our main focus was always the Christian community,” said Landon. He was offered positions at churches across the
country – many with congregations in the thousands. Highlands Church founder Graham Baird took notice of the musician, and Landon liked what he saw developing at Highlands, then a small operation. “At that time, [Highlands Church] was still in the movie theater, and Graham and I really connected over the phone,” said Landon. “It was cool. Saturday night, people were in there watching Iron Man, and the next morning they were there for God.” Landon flew to Paso Robles to check out the area and the church. The musician said he found Highlands to be “super accessible,” which he really liked. “We have always wanted to be a place where people can come and feel normal, not like they have to come in and put on a face and then be a different person on Monday. Your lifestyle should be your lifestyle, and that shouldn’t change,” he said. As far as relocating to Paso Robles, it wasn’t a hard decision, he added. “I didn’t even know where Paso Robles was. I had to look it up on the map,” said Landon. “I came out here for a week and met everybody, and I loved the area. It’s laid back, but not ‘po dunk.’ Of course, there’s the wine, and it’s cool being near the water and also the mountains.” Through the years, Landon has seen the church grow up, and his music has always been part of the experience. He said one question he fields a lot is how he has found so many talented musicians to play
“
Through music, you have the ability to impact people. Music and the arts have the ability to influence people in extraordinary ways.
Caleb Landon Highlands Church
”
with. “If you are a sincere person, you are going to attract people that are sincere. We pride ourselves in mastering a craft and excellence,” said Landon. “And we do it from a place that’s real.”
Highlands Church For more information, visit Theater 3 on Facebook and check out www.high landsadventure.org. Highlands Church is located at 215 Oak Hill Road in Paso Robles. For general information, call 226-800 or e-mail office@highlandschuch.org. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Photo by Hayley Thomas
KICK OFF SUNDAY RIGHT – Caleb Landon and his band Theater 3 rock the stage at Highlands Church in Paso Robles before a recent Sunday sermon. Music has always been a big part of the church's message.
FIVE STAR RAIN GUTTERS, INC. Over 60 Designer Colors — 5 Year Work Warranty Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed! — Service & Maintenance Available One Piece Seamless Returns — Seamless Copper & Aluminum 7 Distinctive Styles of Gutters — In-House Fabrication of Gutters & Downspouts
Family Owned and Operated for Two Generations
461-3283 / 226-9006 3226 El Camino Real, Atascadero
www.FiveStarRainGutters.com Lic.#876930 • Bonded & Insured
page 8
April 2012 North County Life
Shandon’s day of barnyard fun Shandon High School celebrates National FFA Week with Ag Day and Barnyard Olympics Contributed
S
handon High School FFA members celebrated National FFA Week by hosting a Day of Agriculture for Shandon Elementary School students and with the annual Barnyard Olympics Competition. Elementary School students were invited to the Shandon High School Agriculture facilities to participate in a petting zoo, ag
mechanics and welding demo, motivational talk from FFA Advisor Deanna Cargill and a chance to transplant a seedling to take home with retired Cal Poly horticulture professor Dan Lassanske. At the end of National FFA week, students at Shandon High School participated in the Annual Barnyard Olympics with hay bale obstacle races, pie eating contest, farming field long-jump,
tug-of-war and more. The Shandon High School agriculture program facilities are top-notch with three greenhouses, school barn, ag mechanics and welding shop, and acreage for planting and tractor work. With class sizes of 12 to 15 students, there is plenty of opportunity for hands-on practice and extra help.
Photos by Judy Bedell
Josh Villanueva gets a good time on his run at the hay bale obstacle relay race at the Shandon High School Barnyard Olympics.
TUG IT OUT – It was seniors vs. juniors in the Barnyard Tug of War contest. Thanks to help from the school tractor and the local Cal Fire engine, the large pit of muddy water in the middle encouraged the participants to pull hard.
Shandon High School student Sam Romero shows good style and height in the Barnyard Long Jump event.
North County Life April 2012
page 9
Wine Lips & Beauty Tips
Brought to you by Vino +Therapy Studio. The skin and body wine experience is located at 5990 Entrada Ave. in downtown Atascadero.
by Nena Benson
APRIL FEATURED WINERY CLAYHOUSE
T
heir passion for wine compels them to pursue a traditional, time-honored approach to winemaking. Each offering is carefully crafted from select grapes, hand-picked from small vineyard blocks that over the years have proven their ability to produce exciting wines. The result? A refined, well-balanced wine, with elegant textures and flavors; wine that clearly expresses the varietal, while reflecting the distinctive appeal of Paso Robles. This is the unique character of Clayhouse Vineyard. They invite you to learn more about their wines, and join the people who are so passionate about enjoying them. Their label and brand celebrate a historic home at our estate vineyard near Paso Robles. That 150-year-old adobe structure – the Clayhouse itself – still reminds them of the time when grapes were first planted in this area. The Clayhouse, which they have carefully restored, is really the ideal symbol for their vineyard and winery. After all, like the adobe, Clayhouse’s wines are created from the earth, cultivated by hand, and nurtured by family traditions. For the Middleton family, those traditions and deep passion for agricultural businesses go back more than four generations. Today, Clayhouse Wines extend that proud family legacy with a selection of exceptional wines, all crafted by hand in a refined, elegant style that reflects the unique character of Paso Robles and the depth of flavor that the Central Coast imparts.
LIPS NOW APRIL 1 - 30 – CLAYHOUSE WINES AT VINO+THERAPY STUDIO We will be pouring Clayhouse wines for the whole month of April. Come on in and Taste Clayhouse, enjoy a cheese plate & experience a real wine-spa treat. CocoCab Facials, Vino Massages, Wine Pedis & more. Call 466-8466 or visit www.vinothera pystudio.com. APRIL 10 – HEARTHSTONE VINEYARD & WINERY Harris Ranch is coming to Hearthstone April 7 from 12 - 5 p.m. The west’s most recognized brand of beef, Harris Ranch is known for being the most progressive, innovative and quality conscious beef producer. Come see for yourself and taste California’s Premium beef paired with our estate wines. $10/tasting, complimentary with purchase. Call 238-2544. APRIL 14 – WINE 4 PAWS The Fourth Annual Wine 4 Paws at Paso Robles Wineries will raise funds for Woods Humane Society. Choose from over 60 Paso Robles Wineries April 14 - 15 and enjoy our beautiful wine region while supporting a great cause. Pet loving wine drinkers can help our four-legged friends by visiting ANY of the participating wineries throughout the weekend when a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Woods Humane Society. Print your free map/passport off the website, or grab one at any participating winery during the event. Get your passport stamped when you help generate a donation and you’ll be entered in our raffle. APRIL 21 – CASS WINERY The Second Annual Tax Relief Dinner kicks off from 6 - 9 p.m. "Cooking with Booze” is the theme. It’s that time of year…let it all go Saturday night with us at Cass Winery. Chef Jacob is preparing a night of alcoho- infused dishes. To purchase tickets & view our menu, visit www.casswines.com. $60/pp;$48/Wine Club. APRIL 21 – EARTH DAY FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL AT POMAR JUNCTION Vineyard & Barrel tastings, cooking demonstrations, concerts and farm tours complement the main festival and take place throughout weekend. Visit www.earthday foodandwine.com for details. $40 - $75/pp. Call 238-6300. APRIL 29 – AT SHALE OAK WINERY Join us the last Sunday of every month for an enchanting afternoon of live music, culinary pairings, barrel tasting, property tours and a kid's craft from 1 to 4 p.m. Up this month: Wine and Sausage Pairing with Cayucos Sausage Company & headliner musical guest Daniel Whittington of Texas. $7/pp Wine & Sausage Pairing; VINOTHERAPY pg. 11
page 10
April 2012 North County Life
Community Calendar Get involved, see, taste and play MONDAY, APRIL 2
SATURDAY, APRIL 7
BEARCAT BASEBALL FUNDRAISER On Monday, April 2 from 4 p.m. to closing, McLintocks in downtonwn Paso Robles will donate 15 pecent of their proceeds from all sales to the PRHS Bearcat baseball program. Come out and enjoy a nice dinner with friends and support local athletes in your community. Please note date change, as the Bearcat's have a game Wednesday night, the usual night for the McLintock's fundraiser. For more information, contact Derek Stroud at 769-1500 or dstroud@pasoschools.org.
SPRING FLING DAYS Spring Fling Days begin at the Paso Robles Children's Museum, 623 13th St. beginning Saturday, April 7 through Saturday, April 14 with Fort Building Fun at the Firehouse. Your child will be encouraged to expand their creativity and imagination while building their own Fort environment. This exhibit will be located on our Lower Level and available from noon to 3 p.m., free with paid admission. Call Sarah Davis at 238-7432 for more information.
HORSEMEN'S RE-UNION The Horsemen's Re-Union, the first of its kind, will be held at the Paso Robles Events Center on April 2 through 7. Twenty renowned horsemen including Chris Cox and Martin Black will break 40 horses over six days. Spectators may purchase tickets to attend all six days for $180 or $35 per day. For a full list of events and more details, visit www.horsemensreunion.com
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 TEMPLETON WOMEN'S CLUB The Templeton Women's Club is holding a membership meeting on Wednesday, April 4 at 1:30 p.m. at the Templeton Community Center, 601 Main St. Women in the North County are invited to join us as we celebrate 99 years of camaraderie and community involvement. For more information, contact Sue at smdokulil@att.net or 226-9249.
THURSDAY, APRIL 5 LIBRARY FUN The Atascadero Martin Polin Regional Library hosts Captain, a 6-year-old tan and white rough-coated Jack Russell Terrier, and his human friend, Anne Harris, for a relaxed hour of stories two Thursdays a month from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. as part of the Reading to Rover program. He will be at the library on April 5 and 19. For more information, call 461-6161.
CHSRA MEETING California High School Rodeo Association (CHSRA) District 7 will hold two informational meetings in April for junior high and high school students who are interested in participating in high school rodeos. The first meeting will take place on Saturday, April 7 at noon at the Santa Ynez Equestrian Center or high school, contact Sheila Mangione at sheilam@mangionepayne.co m; for junior high, contact Stacey Nance at stacey nance@mac.com.
SUNDAY, APRIL 8 GRANGE BREAKFAST The Paso Robles Grange will hold its monthly breakfast the second Sunday of the month at 7:30 p.m. 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, April 8. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, orange juice and coffee will be served. For more information, call Lester Reugot at 238-2340 or 8011766.
TUESDAY, APRIL 10 HORSE CLUB The Atascadero Horsemen's Club will meet on April 10 at A-Town Deli, 7600 El Camino Real in Atascadero. The program will be presented by David Bogenrief DVM. Bogenrief will focus on the common sense approach to the care and management of horses. An optional dinner begins at 6 p.m., the program begins at 7 p.m. and the general meeting will begin at 8 p.m. For more
information, go to www.atas caderohorsemensclub.com or call Jody at 703-3675. Guest and prospective members are always welcome to attend.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11 BUSINESS EXPO The 2012 Business EXPO "Grow Your Business" Sustain. Save. Strengthen will take place on April 11 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave. Business EXPO consistently assembles the largest collection of companies, bringing hundreds of businesses together under one roof to showcase their products and services. Exhibitor space now open, register today. For questions, call Tiffany at 227- 1267 or visit www.pasorobleschamber.co m.
SATURDAY, APRIL 14 WOMEN'S SHELTER GALA The annual Gala Fundraiser, Moonlight and Moonshine, will be hosted by Friends of the North County Women's Shelter at the Atascadero Lake Pavilion on Saturday, April 14. This year's event is a speakeasy party, with all the charm and flair of the most exclusive clubs of the 1920's. The Tipsy Gypsies will perform in their signature Jazz Age style. Join us in transforming the evening into a true speakeasy by wearing theme related attire. Silent and live auctions, in which you can bid on vacation packages to Jamaica, Alaska, Santa Barbara, as well as once in a lifetime opportunities including a luxury sky box at a Dallas Mavericks game, a luxury sail on the pacific, a WWII fighter plane ride, and many more. Tickets are $80 - purchase through PayPal or call The North County Women's Shelter & Resource Center Office at 226-5400. WALK FOR THE CHILD CASA Walk for the Child to benefit for CASA of San Luis Obispo County will be held on April 14 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Atascadero Lake Park. The walk will include music, bounce house, postwalk barbecue and raffle prizes for walkers. Those who raise a minimum of $100 get a T-shirt. To get details on the walk, go to www.slocasa.org.
WINE 4 PAWS Come out to support Woods and the Central Coast Wineries by joining us at almost 70 wineries participating throughout the Central Coast on April 14 and 15. Wine 4 Paws is pleased to announce Cloud Star Natural Pet Products as our sponsor for the Fourth Annual Wine 4 Paws, April 14-15. Thanks to Cloud Star’s sponsorship, every penny raised will go to Woods Humane Society. During this weekend, Wine 4 Paws wineries will donate either a percent of your purchase or all of your tasting fees to Woods Humane Society. Held concurrently at participating wineries and with wineries from San Luis Obispo to San Miguel sharing in the event. Visit www.wine4paws.com for a complete list of participants. SYMPHONY OF THE VINES On Saturday, April 14 at 8 p.m., Symphony of the Vines director Dr. Greg Magie will be joined by Marek Zebrowski performing Mozart's exciting Piano Concerto #9 at the Mission San Miguel. Program includes music by Haydn and Polish Romantic composer Mieczyslaw Karlowicz. For tickets and information visit www.symphony ofthevines.org.
SUNDAY, APRIL 15 NORTH SLO COUNTY CONCERT Café Musique, a perfect blend of classical, swing, gypsy, folk , tango and originals will be presented on Sunday, April 15 at 3 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 940 Creston Rd. in Paso Robles. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. for best seats. Cost is $20 for adults, $15 for students. For more information, visit www.nslocca.org or call 2392770.
THURSDAY, APRIL 19 RANGELANDS COALITION Central Coast Rangelands Coalition will hold their Spring 2012 meeting, plus optional pre-day mini Farm Stay on April 18-19. CCRC meets with a more informal ‘day before’ meeting, because many wanted more time on ranches with ranchers to better understand the
WINE FOR PAWS Taste more than 70 wineries in support of Woods Humane during the Wine For Paws fundraiser April 14 -15.
land and the people on it, and both days are at the Work Ranch, near San Miguel. The Main event April 19 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join the Central Coast Rangelands Coalition for a day of exploring rangeland soils through the rancher and ranch advisor’s eyes. $20 registration ‘at the door’ helps to cover costs. Reservations required, deadline March 28. To reserve a spot, visit www.elkhornslough.com or call 831-274-8700.
SATURDAY, APRIL 21 FIREFIGHTER RUN The Atascadero Firefighter’s Association will host its inaugural Firehouse 5K Fun Run and Health and Fitness Fair on April 21. The event will be held at the Atascadero City Fire Department, Fire Station 1, 6005 Lewis Ave. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m. The purpose of the event is to raise awareness of the importance and benefits of a healthy lifestyle and to raise money
for the Atascadero Firefighter’s Association’s ongoing support of community projects. The pre-race registration cost is $25 with race day registration available at $35. Participants can register for the event at www.ac tive.com/running/atascadero -ca/firehouse-5k-fun-runand-health-fair-2012. For questions on how to become a sponsor, email firehousefun run@gmail.com SPRING CLEAN The Community Spring Clean flea market will take place on April 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 3905 El Camino Real, Atascadero (former Atascadero Ford sales lot). There will be up to 60 vendors and will be selling household surplus, merchandise from a home-based business or handy-crafts. The event is free to the public. Proceeds will go toward helping an Adventure Troop reach its goal. Contact Lisa at LMcKinny@hotmail.com or call the seller’s hotline at 4663650 to reserve a space.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Come make a Difference! Call today or check online about our volunteering programs.
www.centralcoasthospice.com P: 805-540-6020 F: 805-540-6025
North County Life April 2012 VINOTHERAPY Continued from pg. 9
Complimentary/Wine Club. Contact: 239-4800.
BEAUTY TIPS BENEFITS OF SPA FACIALS & MASSAGES
S
pring your best face forward with a relaxing and soothing facial. Getting facials will help you achieve a clear complexion and a nice glow. A facial can offer many benefits. The face is always subject to the elements such as the sun, maybe smoke or an improper at home regime. Facials offer you the opportunity to work with a professional skin care specialist who will analyze your skin, help you improve your complexion and show you how to take proper care of your skin. A facial can
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
give you a deep cleansing, deeper than the cleansing you will get at home. A facial includes cleansing as well as exfoliation which can help to unclog your pores. Extracting will also help rid the skin of acne. Your skin care specialist will help soften the skin with steam, hot moist towels, and enzymes or other exfolients. As you lie on the table under crisp, fresh sheets, hushed music draws you into the moment. The smell of sage fills the air and you hear the gentle sound of massage oil being warmed in your therapist's hands. The pains of age, the throbbing from your overstressed muscles, the sheer need to be touched -- all cry out for therapeutic hands to start their work. Once the session gets underway, the problems of the world fade into an oblivious 60 minutes of relief and all you can comprehend right now is not wanting it to end. But what if
page 11 that hour of massage did more for you than just take the pressures of the day away? What if that gentle, Swedish massage helped you combat cancer? What if bodywork helped you recover from a strained hamstring in half the time? What if your sleep, digestion and mood all improved with massage and bodywork? What if these weren't just "what ifs?” Evidence is showing that the more massage you can allow yourself, the better you'll feel. Here's why: Massage as a healing tool has been around for thousands of years in many cultures. Touching is a natural human reaction to pain and stress, and for conveying compassion and support. Think of the last time you bumped your head or had a sore calf. What did you do? Rubbed it, right? The same was true of our earliest ancestors. Healers throughout time and throughout the world have instinctively and independently developed a wide
range of therapeutic techniques using touch. Many are still in use today, and with good reason. We now have scientific proof of the benefits of massage - benefits ranging from treating chronic diseases and injuries to alleviating the growing tensions of our modern lifestyles. Having a massage does more than just relax your body and mind - there are specific physiological and psychological changes which occur, even more so when massage is utilized as a preventative, frequent therapy and not simply mere luxury. Massage not only feels good, but it can cure what ails you. The Consequences of Stress: Experts estimate that 80 percent to 90 percent of disease is stress-related. Massage and bodywork is there to combat that frightening number by helping us remember what it means to relax. The physical changes massage brings to your body can have a positive effect in many areas of your life. Besides increasing relaxation and decreas-
ing anxiety, massage lowers your blood pressure, increases circulation, improves recovery from injury, helps you to sleep better and can increase your concentration. It reduces fatigue and gives you more energy to handle stressful situations. Massage is a perfect elixir for good health, but it can also provide an integration of body and mind. By producing a meditative state or heightened awareness of living in the present moment, massage can provide emotional and spiritual balance, bringing with it true relaxation and peace.
SPECIALS VINEYARD ROSE FACIAL WITH A GLASS OF LOCAL WINE & WINE FOOT SOAK $55 SVINOTHERAPY MASSAGE, GLASS OF WINE & WINE FOOT SOAK $60
page 12
April 2012 North County Life
Life FOOD & WINE
Refresh your palate Grilled Shrimp Pasta and Shale Oak Albariño
LISA PRETTY Owner/winemaker at Pretty-Smith Vineyards & Winery/Pretty Café One of Lisa’s favorite activities is to experiment with food and wine combinations to find ones with the “wow” factor. You can find several of her favorite pairings on the blog EatThisWith.com or reach her by email lisa@eatthiswith.com. Lisa Pretty
N
ow that spring is here it is time to once again start thinking about refreshing white wines and dining al fresco. I’m a fan of albariño, a white wine grape that originated in Galicia (northwest Spain). Albariño has a distinctive aroma, typically loaded with apricot and peach. It makes a nice spring or summer wine with a light body and nice acidity. There are several wineries in the Paso area producing albariño and I recently discovered another wonderful one – the 2010 Shale Oak Albariño. The Shale Oak Albariño had everything I was looking for in a spring wine. It is crisp and refreshing with just the right amount of fruit. I decided to fire up the grill and have my first dinner of the year on the front porch. Garlic and shrimp are wonderful with albariño so I decided to test out a new shrimp pasta dish with a side salad. The meal was delightful and the wine a perfect pairing.
Photo by Lisa Pretty
Refresh your palate with a true summer favorite. Grilled shrimp and Shale Oak wine have never tasted so fresh and satisfying.
Grilled Shrimp Pasta Serves 2 ■ WHAT YOU NEED
10 large shrimp 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 medium shallot, chopped 1 green chili pepper, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced 2 cups pasta, cooked ¼ cup white wine Sea salt, to taste
r e c ip e
■ Remove shell and devein shri mp. Rub one tablespoon of olive oil on shrimp and sprinkle with cayenne pepper. Grill approx imately one minute per side – take care not to overcook! ■ In a large sauce pan heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the garlic and shallot for approximatley one minute. Add in the pep pers and continue to sauté until the peppers are soft. Add wine, season with salt and add your favorite cooked pasta. Cook for three to five minutes to allow the flavor to absorb into the pasta.
North County Life April 2012
page 13
PITCHER
“I really want to pull in other homebrewers as well as beer lovers in general — those people who want to see the special kegs that come out, that are hard to find in a bottle.” - Kendall Bryson, Molly Pitcher Brewing Company
Continued from pg. 1
of small, beverage-based business in the North County. Enter craft brew fanatic Kendall Bryson, who aims to put Atascadero back on the map not based on its proximity to the wine-rich regions of Paso Robles and Templeton, but because, as he puts it, “Atascadero is about to become Beer Country.” Bryson, 30, is about to open a microbrewery in Atascadero dedicated entirely to American craft beer. He’s calling it Molly Pitcher Brewing Company, in honor of the women who, according to legend, bravely hauled buckets of water and perhaps something a bit stronger - to the Continental Soldiers fighting on the front lines during the American Revolution. Located in downtown Atascadero, just across El Camino Real from the expansive sunken gardens and soon-to-be-refurbished Historic Rotunda Building, Bryson’s brewery is situated at the heart of the town’s up-and-coming Colony district. That’s no coincidence: Bryson is adamant in his belief that his lifelong hometown is finally going to make a name for itself as a place folks can go to experience both great beer and a sense of community rooted in old-time American ideals. Bryson has been brewing beer for about five years, and in that relatively short amount of time he has made some huge strides. After
Courtesy photo
Old Americana style will infuse the bar room at Molly Pitcher, including one-of-a-kind steel-framed, concrete-topped tables built by local craftsmen Jeremy Wells and Jacob Hardy. Above, brewmaster Kendall Bryson prepares to unleash Molly Pitcher in North County.
starting back in 2007 with a $150 homebrew kit and a first batch that he recalls, with a sour face, was “weird, cloudy and yeasty,” he’s currently turning out IPAs and session stouts that easily rival offerings from other more well-known craft breweries. Molly Pitcher will feature at least three of his signature beers on tap, along with those of other American breweries Bryson admires, such as Stone, Lagunitas, Deschutes, Heretic and Dogfishhead.
Of course, Bryson isn’t the first beer enthusiast to set up shop in North County; Firestone and the Pourhouse both come to mind, as does Dunbar in Santa Margarita, as excellent spots to enjoy top-notch brew. But Bryson isn’t so much interested in competing with other similar venues as much as he’s intent on furthering a sense of community between people who enjoy high-quality, innovative beer. He is quick to point out that “there’s this whole new beer culture starting to
Patio Dining!
SLO Home Show BBQ Contest People’s Choice Winner 1st Place Tri-Tip • 1st Place Ribs • 2nd Place Chicken Family owned and operated, we offer a world of BBQ under one roof. You Delivery will find slow cooked classics in a range of styles from Texas, Kansas City Now and the Carolinas. We take great pride in our Angus Beef Brisket, meaty Available! and tender dry-rubbed baby back ribs, premium quality pork butts, tender young smoked chickens, and all the great side dishes including fried pickles and fried green beans. Our meats are smoked low and slow with our signature dry rub. Relax on our covered patio and choose from 8 premium draft beers, a couple of dozen bottled beers and several local wines.
NEW MENU ITEMS: TRI-TIP • FISH & CHIPS • SALADS • VEGETABLES FRESH RB GROUND BEEF BURGERS
Happy Hour Monday thru Friday – 11am to 6pm $2 PINTS - BUD LITE & SMOKIN’ BLONDE DRAFT $2 DOMESTIC BOTTLED BEER
Visit us on line at www.rbsmokinbbq.com where you can even place an order for pick-up!
1467 Creston Road, Paso Robles • 805-221-5863 Located in the Food-4-Less Shopping Center
give the wine country something to think about; now that more and more beer places are showing up, there are more and more places to go try new microbrews.” And it’s not just the connoisseurs Bryson is interested in; he wants to provide a place for both those who have a taste for his craft and those who share his enthusiasm and skill. His goal is, once again, rooted in his desire to see the community grow — he states, “I really want to pull in other homebrewers as well as beer lovers in general — those people who want to see the special kegs that come out, that are hard to find in a bottle.” Bryson also plans to get involved with city events such as Hot El Camino Cruise Night (for which he has prime real estate) and hopes to organize a beer festival; “of course,” he grins, “it’ll be called ‘Beer Country.’” So, when can North County mosey into Molly Pitcher and order a pint of local, meticulously crafted brew? Bryson hopes to open his doors by the beginning of May; he’s been hard at work renovating the building (formerly an
old office complex) and designing a new interior complete with a brewing room and a bar room that will boast Old-Americana style decor. In fact, much of the new space and its custom furnishings has been built by young, local craftsmen who have pitched in to help Bryson realize his visions. For this, he is beyond grateful. “I’m so lucky to have surrounded myself with talented people who want to see this happen and then come in and help make it happen,” he said. “I wouldn’t be able to do it without the good crowd around me.” Molly Pitcher has the potential not only to serve great beer, but to pull folks together over their common interest in hops and barley, their ties as community members, and their shared American Spirit of friendship and innovation. These qualities imbue the brew in the glass, the carefully polished woodgrain in the bar top and the aspirations of a young brewmaster who believes in them. So, come May, stop in for a pint, relax, and remember: You’re in Beer Country.
page 14
April 2012 North County Life
Life
FITNESS
Hundreds run Hares & Hounds Creig P. Sherburne
T
he weather was perfect and there were enough smiles to delight even the most dour of dentists at the 12th annual Hares & Hounds 5K race at the Atascadero Lake Park on Saturday, March 10. “Last year, it was cold and windy,” Atascadero Athletic Foundation President for Life Wayne Cooper said. “This is good weather.” The annual 5K fun run is hosted each year by the Athletic Foundation, and is one of the organization’s four primary fundraising events. Cooper said the turnout was good, and pre-registrations doubled last year’s numbers. The race is actually three races: a 5K (3.1 miles), a onemile and a half-mile. There were, by far, more 5K participants than the shorter races combined. Approximately 220 people ran the 5K and the remaining 100 or so participants were split between the two shorter races. Race director Robyn Schmidt was out of town for a volleyball tournament, so North County Physical Therapy’s Steve Hodgson filled in during the event. Despite the large number of pre-registrations, lines for day-of registration were long — really long. Hodgson said he held off the race for as long as he felt he could, but when the gun fired and the run started, people were still arriving from registration tables pinning numbers to their shirts. The winner of the 5K was Nick Landy, 17, of Templeton with a time of 17:42. The Templeton High School runner was a full minute faster than his closest competition. Landy was born and raised in Templeton, but his parents moved to Atascadero recently. But he said he missed his old school and wasn’t fond of Atascadero High School so transferred back to THS. The problem, he said, is that new CIF rules prevented him from participating in his school’s cross country team because of his recent transfer status. Not content to simply not run, he kept training and runs open to the public races such as Hares & Hounds. “And my dad told me there was a cash prize,” Landy said, “so that helped.” The big cash prize was for beating a course record. The current record for the Hares & Hounds 5K is 14:38. Landy said his next running goal is to beat his best time for the mile, 4:38. The third person across the finish line was Malia Simon, 12, a sixth-grader from Harloe Elementary School in Arroyo Grande. She was hopefully optimistic at the starting line where she said she hoped to do well, but it all depended on the hills. “I started when I was seven,” Simon said. “Just jogging on the beach. Last year, I started with my coach.” Simon’s dad, Eric, said she’s a natural runner, and that at the age of 11, was the 14th fastest runner in the coun-
try, as proven by her participation in the Junior Olympics. “She just loves these 5Ks,” Eric said. “She does about one per month, and this one looked like the most fun with the best competition.” Other Atascadero notables who did well were Claire Livengood, 8, who finished ninth, in 21:47, better than she hoped for, and Matt Shuck, who finished in 22:21. A recent development in the race is the ability for any group to use it as a fundraiser. The way it works is a participant running for a cause — the Boy Scouts, for instance — will pay the fee and do the race; $5 of that fee goes to the Greyhound Athletic Foundation, and the remaining fee goes directly to the Boy Scouts. Two organizations taking advantage of that were Creston Elementary School and Atascadero High School boys varsity baseball. Creston elementary school principal Julie Davis said that 10 Creston Elementary School students ran the onemile race. “They’re pumped,” she said excitedly. “I’m so proud of them.” AHS baseball coach Paul Teixeira said that in 2011, the team earned about $800 using the 5K as a fundraiser; for 2012, though, the team tripled the number of participants. “I’m proud of my boys for coming out here today,” Teixeira said. “It’s good to let them do something good for themselves.” Atascadero Greyhound Athletic Foundation’s next major event will be the All Comers Track Meet at Atascadero High School in June. For more information, go to www.gohounds.org.
Dozens of people — primarily younger runners — are off and running at the beginning of the Hares & Hounds one-mile race.
Creig P. Sherburne
Malia Simon, 12, earns third place at the Hares & Hounds 5K race last month. She finished approximately 90 seconds after first place winner Nick Landy.
Atascadero runner Matt Shuck rounds the turn which leads to the first big hill of the 5K course.
North County Life April 2012
page 15
An accountant with a passion for volleyball Creig P. Sherburne
o say that Atascadero resident Doug Harbottle likes volleyball is inadequate. Harbottle grew up in Orange County, and while his friends were lying in the sun on the beach getting a tan, he played volleyball. Then he played on his high school team. Then he got a scholarship offer he used for college. Then he was an alternate on the Junior Olympic team. Then he began coaching, and he’s never stopped. “I can never say no when somebody asks if I want to coach,” Harbottle said. Harbottle is an accountant and financial forecaster by trade. In 2006, the company he worked for got hit hard by the bad economy and furloughs were initiated: employees took a week off without pay every month. But Harbottle said he asked if he could work through the month, but get off early. That freed up his afternoons to coach volleyball. “I get to coach almost seven days a week now,” he said, “and I’m so happy.” Harbottle’s wife, Kathy,
T
played volleyball in college, and all three of his daughters, Heather, 19, Amber, 17, and Brook, 14, play the game. Heather plays for Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego; Amber plays for Atascadero High School; and Brooke plays for Atascadero Junior High School. “The whole family is volleyball related, somehow,” Harbottle said. The family moved to Atascadero in 2000 after years of visiting Harbottle’s best man ,who lived in Templeton. Harbottle said the straw that broke the camel’s back was watching the Fourth of July parade in Templeton. “That was it,” he said. “It was perfect.” In Orange County, he said, he coached for a volleyball club; sort of an intramural organization, but also sort of a league participant. Meaning that his club started with enough players for four teams, which would play each other, but would also travel to play against teams from other area clubs. The problem down there, he said, was that kids participating paid as much as $2,500 per six-month sea-
son. When the family moved to Atascadero, he coached for, and his daughters participated in, the SLO JRS Volleyball club — no such club existed in North County at the time. But they had a hard time going to practice in SLO and making it back to Atascadero in time for youth group. So he created a North County club, Mid-Coast Volleyball Club. To keep costs down, he uses low-rent gyms and, when daylight savings comes along, practices at the Sunken Gardens. Neither Harbottle himself nor assistant coaches — including KMan Cycle & Run’s Robyn Schmidt and Dane Mans-
field — get paid much. But, he said, that’s OK because it’s not about the money. “What I sell is a peer group,” he said. “I only want good kids, so if you’re going to get into trouble, it might not be the club for you.” Harbottle said that as a youth, volleyball was a very big deal for him, so he decided to stop getting into trouble so he could keep playing. Nowadays, because he coaches his two youngest daughters, it’s a way to spend quality time with them, a way to be close. And, he said, it keeps him young. “I can’t afford a health club, so I do this to stay in shape, stay young,” he said.
“And it keeps me close to my kids.” Over the years, he’s helped here and there, coached here and there — including at Cuesta College — but now, he’s primarily involved in four places. He is the varsity girls volleyball coach at North County Christian School, coaches the Mission Prep boys team, coaches the under-14 and under-18 teams for Mid-Coast Volleyball Club and is the assistant coach for USA Volleyball. “I do a lot of volleyball,” he said with a smile. “It doesn’t matter if we get our butts kicked. I’m not trying to get the best team. Sometimes, we’re the Jamaican bobsled team. But when they play [with me], they always
get better. I love seeing that.” And when his daughters are too old? When they’re away at college and he can’t coach them any more? “Even when they’re done, I’ll still be doing it,” Harbottle said. “I’ll find a little Division III school in Oregon or somewhere and go teach there. I’m just happy to see a bunch of kids playing.” For more information on Mid-Coast Volleyball Club, go to www.midcoastvb.com. Creig P. Sherburne
Atascadero resident Doug Harbottle poses with the girls in the Mid-Coast Volleyball Club during a recent practice. Harbottle has been involved with volleyball in many capacities for a long, long time.
PASO ROBLES CASINO
ww m w.p .c o asoroblespoker
Under New Ownership $10,000 Bad Beat Jackpot!
www.pasoroblespoker.com
(805) 226-0500 1124 Black Oak Drive PASO ROBLES across from the Fairgrounds, sharing a parking lot with Motel 6
Please Play Responsibly 1-(800)-Gambler
Visit for a game of Texas Hold ‘em, Limit and No Limit, or Omaha Hi-Lo ! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK AT 10AM ! Free food and beverages available to seated players ! Friendliest dealers on the Central Coast ! Hostess and table service for players ! Watch sports on our big screen HDTVs ! Free Game Training Availble ! $5 Buy-in Tournament the first & last Wednesday of each month ! Seniors & Ladies Welcome, $1, $2 and $2, $4 limit games available ! Jackpots ! Daily Promotions & Cash Giveaways!
page 16
April 2012 North County Life