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YOUR COMMUNITY IN YOUR HANDS

AVILA BEACH • SHELL BEACH • PISMO BEACH • GROVER BEACH • ARROYO GRANDE • HALCYON • OCEANO

Volume 12 • Issue 24 • December 25 -31, 2014

Santa took some time out of his busy

schedule to visit with a toddler in the Village

of Arroyo Grande. Merry Christmas to all

from the Tolosa Press family.

Photo by www.PhotoByVivian.com

New rules could dictate panhandling parameters in Grover Beach. The City Council

recently discussed efforts to prohibit the practice at bus stops, within 15 feet of unenclosed ATMs, public restrooms and within defi ned distances of driveways leading up to businesses or shopping centers.

“Without our own local ordinance, we don’t have the ability to unilaterally curb aggressive panhandling,” said Grover Beach Police Chief Jim Copsey. “More specifi cally, we don’t have the ability to tailor restrictions on the City’s individual specifi c locations.”

State law does address aggressive panhandling but not specifi c locations, but Copsey said it is diffi cult to enforce.

“The proposed ordinance would defi ne what aggressive panhandling is and where it is not safely allowed, which is a little bit more of an enforcement tool the police department would be able to use to improve our community,” Copsey said.

“In the last two weeks, things have really gotten out of control with the weather changing,” said Daniel Bronstein, who owns a chiropractic

Panhandlers Rules Discussed in Grover

By Theresa-Marie Wilson

See Panhandlers, page 30

Grover Beach Police Chief Jim Copsey is set to retire on Dec. 28, but he isn’t going anywhere

just yet. Last week, the City Council voted in favor of keeping Copsey on board as interim chief until a replace-ment is found.

“The alternative to retaining Chief Copsey would be to go out and retain an interim chief, but that would be very expensive,” City Manager Bob Perrault told the council.

Because a police chief is a public safety position, the California Public Employees Retirement System (CALP-ERS) allows the City to waive a 180-day

wait period normally required before an employee is eligible for rehire on a limited basis.

Copsey could be rehired for a limited one-time-only basis as per a resolution previously adopted by the council. That boils down to no more than 960 hours, which is equivalent to the 180-day wait period.

“The advantage to the City is that obviously he can be very useful in the recruitment process itself,” Perrault said, adding that retaining Copsey is cost effective. The salary and benefi t

Hold on Chief

By Theresa-Marie Wilson

See Chief, page 30

page 14 page 29page 5

Grover Lights Up

Santa Cops Spread Cheer

ChristmasBasketball

Year’s Best Eats

Rotary Holiday Favorite

page 8page 6

2 • December 25 - 31, 2014 • Coast News

Table ofContentsContents

Grover Improvements ..................... 3

Twas the Night Before Christmas ..... 4

Grover Light Winners ..................... 5

AG Police Spread Cheer ................ 6

Sports Snapshot ............................. 8

Police Blotter ................................. 7

Sports ........................................... 8

King Harris .................................... 9

Community Calendar................ 10-11

Coastal Culture .............................12

Dinner and a Movie ......................14

Holiday Guide .........................15-22

805-Sound...............................23-25

Lifestyle ...................................26-28

Rotary Sing-Along ........................ 29

Scoop the Poop Campaign ............31

Homelessness Isnʼt Seasonal ......... 32

In The Black .............................33-35

Entertainment .......................13

Homeless Donation ...............32

Bret Colhouerpublisher

[email protected]

Neil Farrellmanaging editor The Bay News

[email protected]

Theresa-Marie Wilsonmanaging editor The Coast News

[email protected]

Camas Franksection editor

SLO City [email protected]

Paul Winninghoffsports reporter

[email protected]

Gareth Kellybusiness / lifestyle reporter

[email protected]

Michelle Johnsonart director

Christy Serpaeditorial design

Kathrene Tiffi ncopy editor

Kaila Lugoadministrative assistant

ADVERTISING

Dave Diazinternet, text & loyalty marketing

Dana McGrawsales manager

[email protected]

Zorina Riccisenior advertising executive

SEO [email protected]

Carrie [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Teri BayusMichael Gunther

King HarrisVivian Krug

Evanne MingoriBetsey Nash

SLO NightwritersRay Ambler

Ruth Anne AngusAmy Joseph

Carrie JaymesErin O’Donnell

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Grover Grand Ave. Improvements on the WayBy Theresa-Marie Wilson

The main street in the City of Grover Beach is on the calendar for another stretch

of improvements. The City Council recently approved a portion of the proposed Phase 3 of West Grand Avenue Enhancement Plan.

“I want to commend staff for bringing this project forward and keeping some energy going on the Grand Avenue corridor,” Mayor John Shoals said.

As presented by staff, Phase 3 is broken into two parts, the Base Bid and the Bid Alternate.

The Base Bid project, located between the beach and Highway 1, consists of construction of a multi-use path, installation of native dune landscaping and irrigation, crosswalks with decorative paving, decorative lighting, a decomposed granite path, new curb and gutter, sidewalk and street repairs, reconfi guration of travel lanes, and slurry sealing and striping.

The City received four bids ranging from $696,895 to $763,540 for the Base Bid. The lowest bidder was

Souza Construction. The estimated total construction

cost for the Base Bid project, which includes the construction costs ($696,895), the contingency funds ($70,000), and project management costs ($150,00) is $916,895 -- $133,092 more than budgeted.

“Staff completed a bid analysis and determined that the low bid is acceptable,” said Public Works Director Greg Ray, adding that staff tried to fi nd a way to reduce the project cost, but could not without “altering the project beyond its original description.”

The council approved staff’s recommendation to allocate $135,000 from the Gas Tax fund to pay for the estimated cost increase.

“The Gas Tax fund has a suffi cient unallocated balance,” Ray said. “Per the fi scal year 2015 budget, there is an estimate $373,000 in reserves in the Gas Tax fund.”

Staff did pursue other funding sources in an attempt to leave the Gas Tax fund untouched, but wasn’t able to.

The project had to be awarded by the end of the month in order to keep grant money obtained by the City. Funding sources are: $531,000 in State Transportation Enhancement funds, $267,000 in Regional State Highway Account funds, $109,000 in Urban State Highway Account funds and $20,000 in Local Transportation funds.

“I really appreciate us leveraging our funds like this,” Councilwoman Karen Bright said. “Getting 900 and some odd thousand dollars of work for $130,000 of our funds is really important us.”

The fate of the second part of the project, the Bid Alternate, did not fare as well. The project, between 4th and 5th streets, would consist of decorative medians with landscaping and irrigation, crosswalks and corner ramps with decorative paving, decorative lighting, street furniture, sidewalk and street repairs and slurry sealing and striping—a continuation of what was completed between 2nd and 4th streets.

Souza’s bid for the Bid Alternate

project came in at $800,760. “Unfortunately, there is no

suffi cient funding to award the Bid Alternate at this time,” Ray said

Phase 2 of the West Grand Avenue Enhancement Project completed in 2012 involved construction of street and pedestrian improvements including landscaped center medians, landscape irrigation and lighting, accessible corner ramps, decorative crosswalks and sidewalks, sidewalk and street repairs, slurry sealing, and striping between 8th and 11th streets creating what City leaders and staff planned would be defi nable as a downtown core.

In 2010, Phase 1 was complete. It included landscape medians, pedestrian bulb-outs, decorative crosswalks, street trees and streetlights between 2nd and 4th streets.

The commercial district from 11th Street to Oak Park Boulevard will be the fi nal phase of the plan.

Construction of Phase 3 is expected to begin in early 2015. ✤

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‘Twas the NightBefore Christmas

By Clement Clarke Moore

“Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!”

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fl y, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to

the sky. So up to the house-top the coursers they fl ew, With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot. A bundle of Toys he had fl ung on his back, And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,And fi lled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. And laying his fi nger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,And away they all fl ew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!”

Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863) wrote the poem ‘Twas the night before Christmas also called “A Visit from St. Nicholas” in 1822. It is now the tradition in many American families to read the poem every Christmas Eve. The poem redefi ned the image of Christmas and Santa Claus. Prior to the poem, St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, had never been associated with a sleigh or reindeers. Moore was a reticent man and it is believed that a family friend, Miss H. Butler, sent a copy of the poem to the New York Sentinel, which published the poem with the condition that the author would remain anonymous. The fi rst publication date was Dec. 23, 1823 and it was an immediate success. It was not until 1844 that Clement Clarke Moore claimed ownership when the work was included in a book of his poetry. Clement Clarke Moore came from a prominent family and his father, Benjamin Moore, was the Bishop of New York who was famous for offi ciating at the inauguration of George Washington. The tradition of reading ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas on Christmas Eve is now a worldwide institution.

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not

even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I fl ew like a fl ash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

Ho

Ho

H

o!



Grover Light WinnersNEWS

121 Carmelde Lane

660 Park View Avenue

1654 Seabright Avenue

The Grover Beach Parks, Recreation and Beautifi cation

Commission and Parks & Recreation Department announced the winners of the 2014 Holiday of Lights Decorating Contest.

Members of the Parks, Recreation and Beautifi cation Commission and guests, visited 38 homes and businesses in Grover Beach to determine which of the nominated addresses were the best of the best.

Honors go to:Business Award – Best Overall

Business Display First Place: 278 W. Grand Avenue (Grover Grind Coffee Shop) Second Place: 260 W. Grand Avenue (Shell Beach Floral Design) Third Place: 175 N. Oak Park Blvd (Michael Nails & Spa)

Commissioner’s Award – Best Use of Lights

First Place: 1840 Atlantic City Avenue Second Place: 760 S. 16th Street Third Place: 410 S. 8th Street

City Council Award – Best Original Use of Animation

First Place: 660 Park View Avenue Second Place: 627 Ramona Avenue Third

Place: 121 Carmelde LaneMayor’s Award – Best Overall in Originality

First Place: 1654 Seabright Avenue Second Place: 1416 Mentone Avenue Third Place: 600 Manhattan Avenue

Winners will be invited to attend the City Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 20, 2015 to receive their award. Maps to all the homes viewed on the tour are available on the City of Grover Beach website; www.grover.org.

For more information or to volunteer for activities and events with the Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Department, stop by 154 S. 8th Street in Grover Beach, or call 473-4580.

Photos submitted by Grover Beach Parks & Recreation. ✤


NEWS

Arroyo Grande Police Spread Holiday Cheer

The Arroyo Grande Police Department helped bring holiday cheer to some families

in need during the 28th annual Santa Cop program at the Quarterdeck Restaurant. Santa Cop gives law enforcement personnel the opportunity to interact with struggling families in a positive way to bring the families, and especially the children, an even more special holiday season that for many would not be possible without this program.

The Quarterdeck Restaurant provided a special breakfast for the families while police offi cers, civilians, and volunteer staff of the department joined Santa Claus in presenting gifts and holiday festivities for 10 families and 30 children.

“Each and every child has a special and unique story, a story of excitement and appreciation that was so evident in their faces and voices when they received their gifts from Santa Claus,” said a press release from the AGPD. “We would not be able to continue to provide this program, year after year, without valuable assistance

and generosity of the community. Special thanks to Wal-Mart, Arroyo Grande High School, Sunrise Terrace Mobile Home Park, Arroyo Grande Women’s Club, Arroyo Valley Car Club, Talley Farms, Lady Family Mortuary, McDonalds, Old Village Grill, K-Mart, The Arroyo Group, Dr. Timothy Perrin, and Quarterdeck Restaurant.” ✤

The Deputy Sheriff’s Association has reached out to the Children’s Resource Network

of the Central Coast, donating some $4,000 worth of toys to be handed out kids who otherwise wouldn’t receive a present this holiday season.. For the past fi ve years, The Children’s Resource Network has provided free clothing, school supplies, and resources to children and teens in need. Undersheriff Tim Olivas and members of the DSA presented the toys to Children’s Resource Network Chief Executive Offi cer, Lisa Ray. Submitted photo. ✤

Deputies Donate Toys

Tolosa Press • December 25 - 31, 2014 • 7

POLICE BLOTTER

Avila Beach• Dec. 14: Santa Díos, someone reported indecent exposure on San Juan Street at 3:37 a.m. Deputies got there at 3:42 p.m. to scope out the sitch-u-ashun. But alas don’t despair, a suicidal subject was reported at 8:50 a.m. on Avila Beach Drive and according to logs, deputies arrived at 9:07 p.m. and “No Disposition Needed” by then.• Dec. 13: A burglary was reported at 3:26 a.m. in the 7000 block of Ontario Rd. Deputy dog arrived at 3:39 p.m. to start sniffi ng around.

Cayucos• Dec. 14: At 12:15 p.m. someone reported a swizzle stick traipsing up the 900 block of Ocean Ave. According to logs, when deputies arrived at 12:31 a.m. the guy said faggedaboutit. But when someone called at 2:33 a.m. to report a party in the fi rst block of Bakersfi eld, deputies arrived 10 minutes later to bust it up, an apparent case against there being safety in numbers.• Dec. 14: A citizen in the 300 block of Hacienda reported a gosh-darn dastardly crime, petty theft.

County Jail• Dec. 15: The Crime Lab boys were back testing 15 of the shining examples for possible nefarious acts. And one apparent scoffl aw turned himself in like a good little porch pooch.

Los Osos• Dec. 15: Deputies were called at 8:18 a.m. to the 300 block of LOVR where some graffi diot left his mark on the world for all to see and guffaw over.• Dec. 15: Someone in the 2100 block of Mountainview reported a family dustup at 12:16 p.m., for when the Brits might take tea, some Yanks prefers dere crumpets.• Dec. 15: Deputies started a crime report for some misadventure that took place at 2:30 a.m. in the 600 block of Quintana, no doubt another EIP — existing in public.• Dec. 15: Someone called at 9 a.m. from Los Olivos and Fairchild to report dastardly shenanigans and deputies tossed the knackered nincompoop to the nick.• Dec. 13: A grand theft was reported in the 1800 block of Sage Ave., and some no doubt sage deputy will investigate.

Pismo Beach• Dec. 17: A caller on the 200 block said that her daughter had gone to Ecuador to meet a man and was supposed to be home in early December. The daughter called her mother and said that the man had taken her passport and wouldn’t let her leave. She was advised to call the consulate.• Dec. 17: A caller on the 200 block of Five Cities Drive reported someone washing their car without a control

mechanism on their hose.• Dec. 16: Some doofus was throwing an axe at a defenseless palm tree on the 200 block of Grand. The guy seemed to have taken off on a bike before police arrived. • Dec. 16: Some guys on the 200 block of Pomeroy who had been kicked out of the Pismo Hotel previously was possibly planning a return visit. One arrest was made.• Dec. 15: Extra patrols were requested at Ira Lease Park for a couple who lock themselves in the bathroom overnight. • Dec. 15: Some pesky guy had been asking employees at Beach West personal questions for the past couple of weeks. They were told to call when Columbo was in the business again.• Dec. 14: Someone passed out in the handicap stall of the women’s restroom at the Chevron station. They were advised of the no camping rule and, no doubt, advised to sleep in a hotel bathroom.• Dec. 14: Two pickled guys were lying down in the valet parking area at The Cliffs. They were waiting for a sober driver.• Dec. 13: A caller reported a man on the 800 block of Oak Park carrying a suitcase and a blanket had been loitering all morning. He was advised to move along and apparently went to Ross Dress for Less. An employee reported a transient man hanging out by the fi tting rooms and the children’s toy area. He had a baseball bat partially hanging out of his suitcase, obviously waiting for a pick-up game. He had been in the store several times and had been asked to leave. He was advised against trespassing.• Dec. 12: Someone entered the station to talk to an offi cer about a neighbor’s wind chimes.

San Luis Obispo• Dec. 18: Police responded at 1 a.m. to Higuera and Garden for a reported assault by a woman. The suspect was white, with red hair, wearing a blue, fl annel shirt and Blue Jeans. The 22-year-old battleaxe was arrested for suspicion of battery and being bent in public, which explains a lot.• Dec. 17: Police were called at 8 a.m. to the 100 block of Casa at Dr. Collie’s Offi ce where some James Dean spray-painted, “Teen angst made me do it.” • Dec. 17: The folks at Napa on Marsh told police they had video of some thief cutting through a chain line fence and stealing stuff, as candid camera cop strikes again.• Dec. 17: Folks at Piemontes Italian Deli on Monterey, said some mamaluke was locked in the crapper for 10 minutes and while he answers their shouts to “Give someone else a chance!” he won’t come out. Naturally, the throne hog was gone when police arrived to fl ush him out.• Dec. 17: A citizen in the 2800 block

of Johnson reported at least 10 unauthorized online charges to his or her credit card. Logs indicated a juvenile e-rascal was arrested.• Dec. 17: Police fi elded several violations of the City’s standing in one place too long law. The fi rst was at 1 p.m. in the 1700 block of Tonini where three 20-something men were sitting on a gray VW Jetta. At 1:33 they went to the 1800 block of Devaul for three men hanging out behind the caller’s house for 45 minutes, which is about 46 minutes too long in this town.• Dec. 17: Police got a 9-1-1 hang-up call at 1:21 p.m. from People’s Self Help Housing offi ce in the 3500 block of Empleo. On call back, it went to voicemail that said they’d “stepped away from the offi ce.”• Dec. 17: Police got an emergency, SOS from a vehicle panic device by some apparent cockroach on Cucaracha, as they’d vanished like the lights were turned on.• Dec. 17: A man called police at 4:11 p.m. from the 1500 block of Huckleberry after his daughters came home at 2:45 and found the front door wide open. No word on whether some huckleberry ripped them off.• Dec. 17: Someone called at 4:40 p.m. from King and Sandercock to report several teen-aged boys walking along and smoking the evil weed. At 6 p.m. someone in the 1200 block of Southwood said there were three women smoke ganja outside his or her house, and they do it all the time, proving once again that weed is habit forming.• Dec. 17: Someone called at 5:05 p.m. to ask police to check the welfare of some guy wrapped up in blankets at the Courthouse bus stop who hasn’t moved for quite a while. • Dec. 17: At 6:20 p.m. a citizen at Marsh and Santa Rosa said a plastered man had fallen out of his wheelchair near the bus stop. At 8, someone reported a man sitting in a wheelchair at Marsh and Santa Rosa, as apparently the poor fellow hadn’t rolled far.• Dec. 17: Someone called at 8:35 p.m. to report a traffi c hazard — a transient man sleeping across the Bob Jones Trailhead. The 53-year-old speed bump had a warrant and went to sleep in the Parkinson Plaza, just a slight improvement in the accommodations.• Dec. 17: Employees at County Mental Health called at 10:12 p.m. to ask for a police walk-through after someone left the back door propped open, as apparently someone might be crazy enough to break into the booby-hatch.• Dec. 17: Police responded at 4:55 a.m. to am/pm in the 12400 block of LOVR after some scoundrel made a Bee-double-e double-r u-n — Beer Run!•Dec. 16: Someone reported vandalism at 7:32 a.m. by the elevator in the

Marsh Street parking garage. Logs indicated he had eyes on the suspect but “is trying not to be seen,” as Secret Squirrel is on the case. Police deemed the call unfounded.• Dec. 16: Police responded to the Old Mission Church where some blasphemous vandal painted the statue of Fr. Serra.• Dec. 16: Police responded at 11:04 a.m. to the 3500 block of Empleo where some guy was trying to steal a trailer. Then at 11:06, someone called from Alamo Self Storage on Tank Farm Road and said he hired a friend to move his belongings and the friend had apparently absconded with them, as someone needs to pick better friends.• Dec. 16: Someone called at 11:41 a.m. from Celeste Watters Offi ce in the 1300 block of Morro reporting that a patient threatened to kill the receptionist when told she has to pay, as Obamacare’s hidden twists turn the screw again. Then at 2:05 p.m. SLOPD was asked to meet Morro Bay police at Sierra Vista for help with a combative woman prisoner.• Dec. 16: A woman called police at 2:17 p.m. from Target and said she’d just taken a photo of someone parked in a “No parking” zone, because the apparent vigilante is tired of people who get away with things like this, in this week’s example of why we need SWAT.• Dec. 16: Someone at Barnes & Noble on Marsh called at 3 p.m. to complain about some clown riding a bicycle around the plaza swearing at people. The 2-wheeled menace was cited and released for apparent boorish behavior.• Dec. 16: Someone called at 4 p.m. from the 800 block of Islay to report a transient man sitting on the sidewalk rocking and chanting. At the same time, someone in the area of Monterey and Osos reported another model citizen fl ashing his buttocks and penis at people. The guy wasn’t arrested, as it was apparently not a big thing.• Dec. 16: Police responded at 4:25 p.m. to Victoria’s Secret where they caught a woman shoplifter who tried to steal more than $400 in merchandise, no doubt equal to about four panties and a three bras.• Dec. 16: Someone at Higuera and Garden called at 5:41 p.m. to report a man walking down the street wielding an ax and another with a golf club. Police couldn’t fi nd ol’ Paul Bunyan and Bob Hope.• Dec. 16: Someone at LOVR and Royal called at 7:30 p.m. to report a man dressed all in black walking in the street screaming, no doubt begging to get run over too. Then at 11:15, they were sent to the 100 block of South where some Rocky fellow was yelling, “Adrian!!!” ✤


The Mission Prep Christmas Classic basketball tournament pitted Arroyo Grande against

Campbell Hall with the Eagles losing 57-70. ✤

SPORTSSports Snapshot

Photos by www.RAPhotos.com

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OPINION

Of all the events I’ve experienced over the years in my career as a news journalist, none will ever

quite compare to that of helping to create and participating in a seasonal event televised by KEYT-TV in Santa Barbara that became known as the “Christmas Unity Telethon.”

Its stage was both inside the studio and outside on the patio of the facility, high up on a mesa referred to as “TV Hill” overlooking the city. With music provided by the talent from local school choirs to popular musicians and singers far and wide, persuaded by those who already lived in the area, it blossomed into an incredible 12-hour community celebration of seasonal spirit and Yuletide cheer, underscored by the cause to contribute to a multitude of less fortunate who otherwise might not experience any kind of Christmas whatsoever.

It was a bold undertaking. I don’t to this day know specifi cally whose idea it was, but it had its seeds in one charitable woman named Barbara Tellefsen, who for many a year had been collecting toys, clothing, and food for those in need at her tiny Christmas Unity store downtown.

What if, she suggested to my more than receptive station manager Sandy Benton in the fall of 1987, we could get all the various non-profi t agencies like Food Bank, Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, and others to come together under one umbrella called “Christmas Unity” and work as one organization to ensure that gifts would be distributed more equally and effi ciently?

And what if KEYT could provide some valuable airtime like a telethon to raise funds for the cause? Good ideas on both counts, ones that would come into fruition when Montecito resident and super songster, Kenny Loggins, entered the picture. He suggested, in his quiet, unassuming manner, that he could gather a whole bunch of musicians like himself who would perform for the event, free of charge, thereby ensuring a strong and wide audience. Who could turn down such a generous offer?

So while Loggins set out to contact his playmates, including former partner Jim Messina, and while then KEYT Production Manager Don Katich corralled his crew for the monumental task of producing the program, Benton, Tellefsen, and I went out to encourage and convince all the independent and territorial non-profi ts to join the Unity collective.

There were of course a few egos that had to be converted. One, rather stubborn in particular and understandably rightfully so, was that of an old gruff and feisty retired Marine Corps offi cer, who had been in charge

of the local Toys for Tots program since the Stone Age, and who wasn’t about to give up his cherished role as the agency’s annual Santa Claus.

He dug his heels in like the Japanese he fought on Iwo Jima. As news director, it became my mission to present this unusual and novel idea of cooperation and unity to him, and, as expected, it wasn’t received too well, not initially, anyway. All the other agencies fell in line without much hesitation.

Our goal soon having been achieved for the most part, it was then decided that all food, toys, and clothing gathered by all the non-profi ts would be delivered and housed at Tellefsen’s tiny Unity headquarters under the Victoria Theater, where the less fortunate folk throughout the community who qualifi ed would enter her mini-warehouse to select the items they needed for their families and would leave with their dignity intact.

It was this very special part of the process that caught the attention of

other actors, celebrities, and stars who lived in the area, and who would over the years very much desire to be a part of the annual fundraiser.

It was decided that an early weekend in December would be prime time for a live, televised event broadcast on Channel 3,

starting in the afternoon and wailing its way into the late evening.

KEYT’s news anchors and reporters, side-by-side with local luminaries, would provide the pitch for money and present the various musical performances sprinkled throughout the merry marathon.

The studio was transformed into what may as well have been someone’s giant living room, decked to the halls with a glowing fi replace right next to a huge decorated Douglas Fir, with hundreds of colorful poinsettias interspersed among the hundreds of brightly wrapped presents in all shapes and sizes all around the room.

Any space left over was dedicated to a phone bank, manned by tireless

volunteers who collected pledges from the thousands of callers who decided to donate. The patio deck outside was also spruced up as a backdrop for all the singers who came to perform their holiday harmony.

Cameras were provided for the Hollywood hosts entrenched in the Unity Shoppe, and for our roving reporters traveling the streets in the live van capturing the spirit and generosity of people all over town.

It was a highly-spirited scene, and quite a magical time. Kenny Loggins, who had said he would just make an appearance, got so into the evening, he confi scated my microphone and wouldn’t give it back for the rest of the night. I had to grab a stand-by to interview Santa Claus, who I recognized and saluted as soon as I saw him. That old Toys for Tots Marine had fi nally joined the party.

The fi rst KEYT Christmas Unity Telethon in December of 1987 was so successful that many more would follow over the years, I’m proud to say. I am blessed as well for being a part of its inception. It truly was a holy night — but silent, it was not. ✤

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COMMUNITY CALENDARHoliday theater festive

performance of Charles Dickens,’ “A Christmas Carol,” from 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24 at St Peter’s-by-the-Sea Church, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay. Free. A merry troupe of local actors will present the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, his wondrous transformation, and the ghosts that make it happen, just in time for Christmas.

The Thursday Night Farmers’ Market in Downtown San Luis Obispo will not be held on Christmas Day, or New Year’s Day, giving the numerous vendors the holidays off, the Downtown Association announced. Farmers’ Market, SLO’s signature year-round event, will resume on Thursday, Jan. 8 featuring barbecues, a variety of food vendors, farm fresh produce, live entertainment, and specialty products and services. See the market’s website at: www.downtownslo.com for more information.

SLO Skiers, a local non-profi t sport and social club, is having its next monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the Elks’ Club Lodge, 222 Elks Ln., SLO. Membership is $40 per year and open to all adults. Sports activities and social events are held all year long. See the website at: www.sloskiers.org or call 528-3194 for more information.

Put your life experience to work with RSVP. Join with many other seniors, age 55 and over, who are taking time to help improve the lives of others. RSVP can match your talents and interests with community needs. Friends of Arroyo Grande Library needs senior volunteers for setting up and cashiering for book sales. SLO Senior Center needs on-call substitute volunteers to fi ll in, as

needed, at the reception desk. Training will be provided. Habitat for Humanity Restores, both SLO and Paso Robles locations, are in need of Volunteer Cashiers, Monday through Saturday from 9-5. Good people skills are highly desirable, but no other specifi c skills are required. GleanSLO collects and harvests produce that would otherwise go to waste and they are looking for new volunteers. Work is seasonal. Volunteers need to be able to carry 20 lb. boxes; must be fi t enough to wear harvest bags while walking, use pole pickers and climb ladders if they choose. Agricultural experience is valued, but not required. Call RSVP at 544-8740 for information.

An anonymous donor has given the Morro Bay Skateboard Museum a cool prize to raffl e off and tickets are being sold now. Museum owner, Jack Smith said

the donor, who wants to be called “Elf,” bought the rig — a Maherajah 26” by 9” deck, with Paris 180mm trucks, Kryptonics 75mm wheels, and SW Bearings — and donated it back. Tickets to win the rig are $1 each or 10 for $5 and are available at the Museum, located in Marina Square corner of Pacifi c and the Embarcadero in Morro Bay or online at: www.mbskate.com. The winning ticket will be pulled Jan. 1.

Share the magic of music, singing and lots of stories at the Ashley Brown Puppet Show. Free for the whole family thanks to the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust. It will be presented in the Community Room at the San Luis Obispo Library on Dec. 27 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Each year during the holidays the Nybak Wing of the San Luis Museum of Art transforms into a high-end art gallery boutique sporting a cache of treasures created by local artisans. This year the Craft Art Market celebrates its 27th year with a dazzling array of artful gifts, holiday ornaments, fi ne jewelry, textiles, home décor, and intricate ceramics. The museum is closed Tuesdays and holidays but otherwise open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Boxtales Theatre Company will entertain and amuse with trickster plays from around the world, including: Anansi, B’rer Rabbit, and many more. Come be a part of the fun. Free for the whole family thanks to the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust. The show will be presented in the Community Room at the San Luis Obispo Library on Jan. 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

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ceremony and ribbon-cutting to celebrate their newly expanded space. Featured guests include Pismo Mayor Pro Tem Ed Waage, City Manager Jim Lewis, County Supervisor Adam Hill, and SLO County Library Director Chris Barnickel. Light refreshments will be served. The event takes place Jan. 7 at 2 p.m.

Fresh off getting a $177 million construction bond approved, the San Luis Coastal Unifi ed School District is now accepting applications for an “Independent Oversight Committee,” that would help manage the various project budgets that will be coming up over the next several years.

The committee will have seven members that will meet, review and report on expenditures of monies to ensure it is used only for voter-approved purposes.

Interested persons may obtain an application from the Superintendent’s Offi ce, located at 1500 Lizzie St., Building B, San Luis Obispo, or download the application from the District’s website, see: www.slcusd.org under “Community/Bond Information.” Applications are due by Feb. 17 at the district offi ce.

The Friends of the Cayucos Library will hold a winter book sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17 on the library patio. Choose from hundreds of used books, CD’s and DVD’s at bargain prices. All proceeds support the library and the Friends’ various community programs. Also, the Friends will hold a “Booked for Lunch” event at noon, Friday, Jan. 9 in the library community room. Bring a brown bag lunch and share your recommendations of a favorite or recently read books. Free. The Cayucos Library is at 310 B St.

The Artful Holiday Gift Show at the Gallery at the Network in SLO brings together the works of more than 50 Central Coast artists with handcrafted and original artworks, and fi ne art crafts. Show runs through Jan. 31. The Gallery is open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11-5. Free gift wrapping, gift certifi cates and time payment arrangements available. Gallery at the Network is at 778 Higuera St., Ste. B. Call 788-0886 or see: www.thegalleryatthenetwork.com for more. Shown here is a holiday necklace by Ann Bonstell. ✤

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COASTAL CULTURE

Being on the pulse of all things modern and rapidly changing in

the world, it’s easy to forget, while living in California, some of the important past that got us here. Without huge developments in aeronautics, engineering and a prosperous automotive industry, the past 60 years would have been very different.

Unbeknownst to many residents of San Luis Obispo county, there is one place trying to not only preserve some of this illustrious past but to also inspire future generations to themselves continue the developments that have come before them. If you want to fl y an F18 fi ghter jet, look at an Indy car, and check out a whole host of cool military

artifacts, ordinance and memorabilia from the past half-century, then the Estrella Warbirds Museum in Paso Robles is the place for you.

Started in 1992 right next to the Paso Robles Municipal Airport, the Estrella Warbirds Museum was started with the simple goal of the restoration and preservation of military aircraft, military vehicles and memorabilia and those who fl ew and worked on military aircraft. With many jets on display, various other planes, helicopters and a hugely popular fl ight simulator capable of simulating fl ying in 30 aircraft, the museum, one of only a handful in the country that is both a drive-in and fl y-in museum, has slowly but steadily grown to a site now covering more than 12 acres.

“In 2009, we added the Woodland Automotive Display Building, which is home to a fantastic array of automobiles. We have a beautiful Mercedes with wing doors, Indy cars and classic cars from various decades in

American history,” said Sue Dollemore, the museum’s fund development manager.

“As we’ve continued to grow with the use of grants and donations, we’ve been able to expand. We’ve expanded our main hanger, Hanger One, and with a 50 percent increase in visitor traffi c, we are currently in the process of building a new facility to house a collection of pristine trucks from General Patten’s Red Ball Express from World War II,” Dollemore said.

With monthly dinners, social gatherings and a committed group of

volunteers, staff, donors and the like, the Estrella Warbirds Museum will be expanding its hours from summer of 2015 to be open seven days a week.

Always looking to increase its community outreach and fundraising opportunities, it will also be hosting an Air Show on Aug. 29, something that had to be cancelled this year due to the museum’s ongoing construction. They are also looking for a certifi ed curator to head up operations at the museum.

The Estrella Warbirds Museum is located at 4251 Dry Creek Rd. in Paso Robles. It is currently open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children and all active military get in for free. To fi nd out more, see: www.ewarbirds.org. ✤

Got a story to share? Fly over to your email and tell Gareth all about it at [email protected].

Fly Through History at Estrella Warbirds

Story by Gareth Kelly, Photos courtesy of www.ewarbirds.org

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Doors open at 7:30, and the show stars at 8:00. There will be beer, wine, champagne, and soft drinks available.

A group of master musicians will team up for a fun show at the Red Barn Music Series in Los Osos, set for 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3. Cost is $15 at the door. There’s a potluck supper at 5, so bring a dish to share and place settings. Calling themselves “The Guttersnipes,” the all star line up is Kenny Blackwell (mandolin), Doran Michael (guitar), Louie Ortega (guitar) and Ken Hustad (bass). Given the extensive and diverse backgrounds of each of “the ‘Snipes” you’ll get “a gumbo” of styles including pop, jazz, blues, and country, plus some Tejano, Brazilian and Celtic. The Red Barn is located at 2180 Palisades Ave, Los Osos. This show is made possible through the support and assistance of the entire Red Barn Community (“Children of the Barn”) and support from KCBX Public Radio and Live Oak Music Festival.

Western Music singer, Dave Stamey, will perform at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9 at Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay. Tickets are $15 a person and available at the store or buy calling 772-2880. A former real cowboy, Stamey is an entertainer now, dropping the boots and spurs for a guitar and playing music festivals, agricultural banquets and backyard barbecues. He has been voted Entertainer of the Year, Male Performer of the Year and Songwriter of the Year by the Western Music Association, and Male Vocalist of the Year by the Academy of Western Artists. He’s been described as the “Charley Russell of Western Music.”

It’s the return of a Central Coast favorite at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande on Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. Since their debut in 1986, The Peking Acrobats have continued to push the envelope of human possibility. They perform daring maneuvers atop a precarious pagoda of chairs. They are experts at treacherous wire-walking, trick-cycling, precision tumbling, somersaulting and gymnastics. They defy gravity with amazing displays of contortion, fl exibility and control. They are masters of agility and grace and their awe-

W. Terrence Spiller, will give a benefi t recital

Louie Ortega to play the Red Barn Music Series in Los Osos

Cal Poly Music Department Chairman, W. Terrence Spiller, will give a benefi t recital at 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9 in the Spanos Theatre on campus. Tickets are $9 for students and senior citizens and $12 for the public including all Performing Arts Center fees, and parking. Tickets are sold at the PAC Box Offi ce from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays. Order by phone at 756-4849. Get a 10-percent discount when you buy season tickets to four of the music department’s events and a 15-percent discount on tickets to fi ve or more events. Proceeds benefi t the Cal Poly Music Department Scholarship Fund. Spiller’s program includes Haydn’s “Variations in F minor,” Debussy’s “Suite Bergamasque,” Albéniz’s, “Triana” from “Iberia, Book II,” and Chopin’s “Preludes, Op. 28.”

The Pewter Plough Playhouse is holding a special New Year’s Eve party with a performance of the musical play, “Duke’s Place,” featuring Duke Ellington’s music and starring some of SLO County’s best vocalists. Tickets are $130, all Inclusive and available form the Playhouse Box Offi ce, call 927-3877 or online at: www.pewterploughplayhouse.org. The night includes a buffet dinner, the show and an after-show party in the PPP lounge.

After last year’s sold out costume ball, Zongo All-Stars is at it again with the 2014 Time Traveler’s Ball. Dress from any time period - past or future - and join us for a great night of music and dance in Los Osos at the Community Center.

The journey begins with the big, soulful award winning vocal sounds of The Monroe. Following them will be Solstice, an amazing power funk trio with almost 70 years of collective experience together: Dylan Johnson, Jacob Odell, and Jennings Jacobsen. Taking you up to midnight will be the hot, fun, Afro-Caribean sounds of current New Times Readers Poll Brest Local Band, Zongo All-Stars. Then at midnight, all three bands and special guests will take the stage for a big Superjam to get 2015 off on the right note.

Get your tickets early at zongoallstars.com as it is likely to sell out.

inspiring feats create an event with all of the excitement and pageantry of a Chinese Carnival. Tickets range from $36 to $46 and can be purchased at www.clarkcenter.org.

Also at the Clark Center is the Lonesome River Band on Jan. 17 at 8 p.m. The Lonesome River Band is one of the most popular, infl uential and respected acts in bluegrass music. Lonesome River Band’s long career is fi lled with a multitude of Awards and Recognitions from the International Bluegrass Music Association including Album of the Year, Bluegrass Band of Year, Vocal Group of the Year, Song of the Year and Banjo Player of the Year. The Band just celebrated their 30th Anniversary with three 2012 album releases that have strengthened their reputation and displayed the distinctive LRB sound fans love. Tickets range from $35 to $42 and can be purchased at www.clarkcenter.org. ✤

Western Music singer, Dave Stamey


Dinner and a Movie

Each year a few new and new-to-me restaurants stand out in my mind as the best. I have picked

my top restaurants that will be open for New Year’s Eve, as I believe if you go out only one night per year, this is the night to indulge in the best food you can fi nd.

Some are “bring your banker” type of meals, some our small but mighty culinary destinations.

1. Ember Arroyo Grande. Very few restaurants over my past 20 years

of being a food writer have captured my heart like Ember. I can tell you I dine there weekly, and sometimes sitting at the bar with a wild mushroom pizza with three kinds of chef foraged mushrooms, wild nettles, smoked leeks and a farm egg with a glass of Daou Cabernet is enough to sooth my foodie soul. Other nights, I bring a group of friends and dig into every dish on the menu. I can tell you that I have never have had such culinary excellence in both service and food so consistently. Brian Collins and his team have created gastronomic nirvana and you need to get there soon. Do not be swayed by tales of long waits, dine outside the norms, and you will be fi ne.

Ember is offering an amazing New Year’s Eve experience. They are taking reservations for two seating’s beginning at 5 and 8 p.m. with a four-course menu with options (and a few surprises from Chef Brian) and a Champagne toast. Call to reserve a table at (805) 474-7700.

2. Foremost Wine Company, San Luis Obispo. This new kid on

the block has captured the foodie culture and Chef Julie Simon has more talent in her thumb than most of the chefs around. Pair her with Sommelier Robin Puricelli and you have a magical menu. The 8-course menu for New Year’s Eve includes, oysters in Brachetto D’ Acqui Gelée, Pomegranate. Burrata with American sturgeon caviar, licorice herb and See Canyon egg yolk raviolo, black truffl e, hazelnut brown butter. Next they will have Chinatown Dungeness crab salad and then a Rinconada Dairy goat confi t. Dessert is a chocolaté truffl e trio with hazelnut, Rose petal and Meyer lemon. You cannot go wrong with this chef or restaurant at anytime. Call (805) 439-3410

3. Gardens of Avila, Avila Beach. My one true sure thing in life is

this restaurant. I visit for birthdays, anniversaries and special events. This chef can do magic and with his garden across the bridge to forage from, he creates miracles every night. Inspired by the bounty that

surrounds, The Gardens of Avila features seasonal, spontaneous cuisine. Every dish is artfully prepared by Chef Gregg Wangard using the freshest ingredients from local and organic farms, ranches, fi sheries and vineyards. This dedicated focus on bringing these elements together is the very essence of what makes the ever-changing menu at the Gardens of Avila so admired. Enjoy a handpicked meal for New Years and delight in Chef Gregg Wangard creative and amazing dishes. Call them at (805) 595-7302.

4. Sea Venture- Pismo Beach. This is where ocean views meet

coastal cuisine. Gracing the third fl oor of the Sea Venture Beach Hotel is a restaurant that will delight your senses. The panoramic views from large picture windows and outdoor decks include breathtaking sunsets and the pristine Pacifi c Ocean.

And if the views weren’t enough, in walks Chef Casey Walcott and his contemporary coastal cuisine inspired by the surrounding local wine country. Delight in his seasonal menus that are carefully prepared based on local farm produce, premium meats, and the highest quality fresh fi sh and seafood. Every palate is sure to be delighted. New Year’s Eve dinner is a 6-course meal inspired by the sea and the vineyards. Reservations at (805) 773-4994.

5.The Cliff’s Resort (Marisol), Pismo Beach. A true coastal view

that will always take your breath away is to be found at The Cliff’s Resort. What better way to ring in the New Year with the waves crashing on the beach, as you dine and dance the night away? Join the amazing staff for a sultry, romantic dinner in Marisol with an exquisite 4-course Prix Fixe dinner including a welcome glass of champagne. Or you can choose the main event in the ballroom. Included in the party are a full bar, cocktail service, photo booth, and an abundant

candy bar. You can choose, dinner and the party or either one. Call (805) 556-3318 for reservations.

6. Apple Farm, San Luis Obispo. The

Apple Farm is where old meets new with traditional recipes honored and new farm-to-table cuisine prepared by masterful chef Steven Smeets. Join them for a special New Year’s with a 4-course farm to table meal. Treats include salmon tartare, local Dungeness crab, baby carrot garden with smoke garlic foam, Tur-duck-en Terrine, puff pastry, and a fi let of lamb. Pastry chef extraordinaire, Willette Vey, will be bringing the night in with black and white cake. Call (805) 544-2040 Ext. 637.

7. Cracked Crab, Pismo Beach. I have spent the at least four New

Year’s Eves at this amazing restaurant because on this auspicious night of the year, I want the best. And hands down they have the best seafood ever plucked from the ocean. Alaskan king crab. The Cracked Crab always serves the fi nest seafood available, in a most casual style. The house specialty consists of a big bucket of shellfi sh, casually dumped on your paper-covered table with sausage, potatoes, corn, and all the tools needed to crack crab. Spoil yourself and go here. They do not take reservations, but it is worth the wait. Call (805) 773-2722.

8. Atari-Ya, Santa Maria. I will only eat at one sushi restaurant and

this is it. They are open on New Year’s Eve until 9 p.m. but it is worth it to go and sit at the bar and have sushi chef, Enrique, spoil you with the best sushi anywhere. They also offer a Japanese New Year “Osechi” Special Box that includes shrimp, chicken, beef, grilled fi sh, Ikura, Kimpira, and Kamaboko, so you can take it to go and enjoy

traditional Japanese New Year’s food. They are taking orders, and it will be ready for pick up after noon of Dec. 31. Call (805) 922-0025.

9. Artisan, Paso Robles. Chef Chris Kobayashi uses time-honored

techniques to bring vibrancy to each dish served. Chef Chris is whimsical, talented, and amazing. Artisan is built upon Chef Kobayashi’s attention to detail, focus on locally-sourced ingredients and fervor for refi ned cuisine. He will blow your mind on New Year’s. If you can’t make it then, see him in January. Reservations at (805) 237-8084.

10. Mistura, Paso Robles. A new kid on the block, but owned by

a renowned and seasoned chef, Nicola Allegretta of Mama’s Meatballs. He was looking to fulfi ll a hole by offering South American fare. Peruvian cuisine combines pre-Inca and Inca staples and food with the Spanish, Basque, African, Asian, French, Italian and British cuisine. It is a unique fusion of the culture, traditions and fl avors of four continents. It will blow your mind. Call them at (805) 238-3333.

Happy New Year Foodies! ✤

Teri Bayus can be reached at: [email protected] or follow my writing and ramblings at: www.teribayus.com. Teri is also the host of Taste Buds, a moving picture rendition of her reviews shown on Charter Channel 10 or at: www.centralcoastnow.tv. Dinner and a Movie is weekly feature of Tolosa Press.

Top-10 Restaurants of 2014By Teri Bayus

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Tolosa Press Special Publication • December 25 - 31, 2014 • 17

In 1973, when I was 15 years old, my father disappeared. This wasn’t completely unusual. It

had happened before, but never for weeks. My dad was an alcoholic. He got paid every Friday. Often instead of depositing his check or bringing it home, he’d cash it and head to the bars. He’d drink part of it away and then go to the local card room to gamble the rest of it into nonexistence.

In December that year, when my dad was still MIA, my mom decided to go looking for him with her friend. “Betty and I are going to disguise ourselves, with wigs and sunglasses. We’re going to drive around in her car until we fi nd your father.” It probably would have been best if I didn’t know they found my dad with some other woman, but I suppose my mom didn’t want me to worry about whether he was dead or alive.

The mystery of my missing father was solved, but not our lack of money, and we were running out of food. We hadn’t had milk in the house for over a week. It didn’t really bother me. I just poured extra sugar on my cereal. It didn’t taste so bad with the water.

My mom was pretty ingenious. She was working at a school, and one day she brought home all the left over pumpkins that were used as decorations for Halloween and Thanksgiving.

“What are you going to do with those?” I asked.

“You’ll see,” my mom grinned. She made pumpkin bread, pumpkin soup and pumpkin pancakes. After a week she said, “I hope you aren’t getting tired of pumpkin.”

I smiled and hugged her. “It all tastes good to me.”

A week before Christmas our cupboards had grown pretty bare. I wasn’t really worried about getting presents— it seemed obvious that wasn’t going to happen. Not having a special dinner would be disappointing. But, low and behold, arriving home from church one evening we found something on our front porch. “Look, boxes of food, and there’s a frozen turkey!” I said excitedly.

“And all the fi xings,” my mom added, her face beaming.

Christmas Eve, my mother and I put the X’s on the chestnuts, and roasted them in the oven. When they were cooled and cracked, we nibbled them

while listening to Nat King Cole croon, “Chestnuts roasting on an open fi re.”

Christmas morning I woke up to the sweet aroma of onions and garlic being sautéed for turkey dressing. When I wandered into the living room, there were three small gifts under a decorated tree. My mom was not only ingenious, but creative as well. I was curious what treasures she had come up with to wrap.

I opened a hand knitted winter cap and a book she had put together of all my favorite recipes. The last gift she handed me was a small package. I opened it— a beautiful cross necklace lay in a silk lined box. My eyes grew wide with excitement. “How did you pay for it?”

“Someone from church handed me some money and asked me to buy a gift for you.”

“Who was it?”My mom smiled, “They want to

remain anonymous.”My older brother and his family came

to Christmas dinner. We feasted on all the wonderful delicacies my mother made with the meal a mysterious someone had given us.

We never found out who left that food. Maybe, a thoughtful n e i g h b o r . P o s s i b l y , s o m e o n e from church who had heard about our plight. Or, it could have been my older brother who had brought milk and bread a couple weeks before. Whoever it was, made it the best Christmas ever because it was fi lled with love.

Our tummies were full too.

Lili is a member of SLO NightWriters, the premier writing organization on the Central Coast of California. She has lived on the central since she was eight, and has been writing since she was thirteen. Lili has written four children’s books and is currently working on an adult novel.

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The holidays are coming up quickly, and that means there’s plenty of reason to celebrate.

Whether you’re throwing a party for the fi rst time or you’re continuing a long-running annual tradition, hosting a festive celebration with friends and family is a lot of work and always worth it. This year, take your party to the next level to truly impress your guests - without breaking the bank.

Consider these fi ve entertaining secrets that expert party planners use to throw unforgettable holiday parties for less:

Themes Set the

stage and get everyone in a festive mood with a great theme. A bit of brainstorming is all you need to fi gure out the best theme for your ce lebrat ion. From an o u t d o o r a u t u m n harvest to

a New Year’s masquerade, the sky’s the limit. For a fun twist on holiday celebrations, consider having a favorite movie be the theme for the party. Include the theme on the invitations you send so guests know the details!

Food Whether you’re serving appetizers or

planning a full-out feast, food is a party essential. Enhance your food service by renting everything you need for an impressive presentation. Silver food chafers, fl atware, serving trays and more are available from your local ARA

rental store. The expert staff can make recommendations based on your menu and help you select the perfect items for food and drink. You might even consider renting a few fun extras, such as a chocolate or champagne fountain to really impress guests and make your party stand out.

Entertainment No great holiday party is complete

without entertainment. Let music set the mood by creating a custom playlist. Then amplify those tunes by renting a professional sound system and dance fl oor to watch guests move and grove. For movie-themed parties, consider renting a projector so guests can view the fl ick in style! Finally, casino or carnival games are sure way to get everyone involved in the festivities and provide fun for all ages.

DecorYou may already have some decor

to use at your holiday-themed party, but to really impress this year, consider fresh ideas for stunning and unexpected decorations. If you prefer the DIY route, visit sites like Pinterest for ideas on how to create beautiful decor. If you’re short on time or simply

aren’t crafty, you can rent table linens, runners and centerpieces. Visit www.RentalHQ.com to learn more about affordable holiday decor rental options. When deciding on decor, don’t forget about the importance of lighting. Not only do the right lights create the ideal ambience, they also provide an element of safety and brighten up dark spaces so guests have more room to mingle.

ExtrasThe extra touches - big and small - are

what truly spice up a party and give it that professionally planned feel. Small additions like coat racks eliminate the pile of coats and purses, keeping rooms neat and tidy. Extra chairs ensure guests are comfortable whether they are visiting, eating or drinking. For a truly festive celebration, rent a bar and set up a drink station with all the barware needed to really impress guests. If you’re having a big party, don’t pack into your house - rent a tent and heaters if necessary and let the good times roll!

Come up with a few fresh ideas and rent some unique items that guests won’t expect, and you’ll set a new standard for hosting parties among your friends and family.

Eat - Play - ShopBAYSIDE CAFE is a wonderful fi nd if you are looking for fresh food and something off the beaten track where the “Locals” love to eat while looking over the Back Bay. A restaurant with a casual dinning experience, great home cooked food from the farm and the sea. Homemade desserts are a must try. Open 7 days a week for lunch featuring fi sh and chips, soups, salads, sandwiches and some Mexican items. Try our dinners served Thursday through Sunday featuring fresh seafood items as well as tri tip, hamburgers, pastas and more…Dog friendly heated patio too! Located in the Morro Bay Marina directly across the road from Morro Bay State Park Campground at #10 State Park Road in Morro Bay! 805-772-1465

GRANDMA’S FROZEN YOGURT AND WAFFLE SHOP Morro Bay’s newest downtown business, GRANDMA’S FROZEN YOGURT & WAFFLE SHOP is open and offering Old Fashion specialty waffl es, Real frozen yogurt, and refreshing sorbet. Non-electronic activities are available throughout the week, including board and card games. Located on the corner of Morro Bay Blvd. & Main Street, they also provide a public restroom for downtown guests. Come and enjoy the newly created courtyard as you watch downtown come alive during the Saturday Farmers Market. Live music is available periodically. Be sure to Facebook us for daily yogurt fl avors and activity updates! Hours: 10am-7pm Sun-Thurs and Fri- Sat till 10pm. Come see us after the show! 307 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay, CA Call (805) 704-YUMM (9866)

NATIVE HERBS & HONEY CO opened a new shop in Los Osos. A locally owned beekeeping company specializing in raw-local honey, 100% pure beeswax candles, handcrafted soaps, herbal & natural skin care, gifts & Custom orders. 1001 Santa Ynez St. Los Osos (805) 534-9855. Tue.-Sun.. 12-6pm www.nativeherbsandhoney.com

SMOOBAGE, which means “something that you really love” is a delightful store that will peak your senses as you search for the perfect item or gift. You will fi nd Artistic pieces from a variety of local artists as well as a quaint store that houses a paradise of colorful palettes & textures. From leather goods to jewelry, greeting cards & a children’s section there are treasures abundant. 591 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. (805) 459-5751. Text SMOOBAGE to 56955 to Join & receive 10% OFF your next purchase!

5 Aff ordable Enter�aining Ideas Guaranteed To Impress At Holiday Par�ies

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Sometimes you see something or meet someone who defi nes a concept for you. A defi ning

moment for Newton was when the apple fell on his head (according to folk legend). That moment defi ned the concept of gravity for him. For many people, the person “Mother” defi nes the concept of unconditional love. For me, hearing Dorian Michael for the fi rst time defi ned my understanding of what was meant by the term “root blues music”.

In a community that is rich with traditional blues, Dorian stands in his own class. To hear him is to fi nd that important bridge to the music that started true American music, and from which all truly great modern music springs. His quiet and unassuming manner hides a sharp mind and a quick wit. He doesn’t suffer fools gladly. He has a deep respect for fellow musicians who work hard at their craft, and who don’t take shortcuts. His voice is warm and raspy at the same time. He has wonderful skill on the acoustic slide guitar (he plays a big metal resonator guitar from the National Guitar Company, which is now based in SLO), His fi nger-picking

style is truly beautiful and hard to beat. If you’ve heard the commercial for Steve Key’s Songwriters at Play on the Krush Radio, you’ve heard Dorian singing “That’s the Stuff You Gotta Watch”.

I always assumed that Dorian grew up dirt poor on a family farm in the Midwest somewhere, but it turns out he lived his entire childhood in Culver City. When he was 7 years old, his dad gave him a $15 acoustic guitar and lessons at the local music store “from some guy who probably didn’t even play the guitar, probably the trumpet.” His dad’s hopes of his learning a “quiet, portable instrument to play folk music” back-fi red when Dorian progressed to electric guitars and amplifi ers. The lessons, which taught classical music and some technique, were unsatisfactory, although Dorian didn’t really fi nd that out until he entered the music program at Cal State Northridge. From age 15, he became the lead guitar player by default in several garage bands, including the “What Four”, which played at school dances and the like. He attended college with kids who went to high schools with music programs, something which did

not exist in Culver City schools, despite being a middle class community. “I had to play catch-up FAST,” he says. Most of what Dorian knows about guitar is self-taught, from listening to his parent’s music, which consisted of folk, country and blues. The Kingston Trio was popular then, and some of his infl uences were Sonny Kerry and Brownie McGee, Joan Baez, Josh White, Pete Seger, Bob Dylan, Dave Brubeck, and Bach. Dorian says he has always been most moved by the blues.

When Dorian was 15, he started going to the Ashgrove Club in West Hollywood. In those days, Jackson Browne and Taj Mahal were opening acts. Muddy Waters performed there. Dorian says he’s sure that fellow audience members were Ry Cooder and Dave Allen, who were known to frequent the club during the same period.

Dorian moved to the Central Coast twenty years ago, and has been married to Michelle for the same amount of time. Aside from some temp day jobs when he moved here, he has always worked as a professional musician, including teaching private guitar lessons in the style he wishes

he’d been exposed to as a youngster. He spends about four months a year touring the United States and Canadaas a solo act. Currently he is a member of three electric bands: The Mystery Trees, The Cinders Blues Band, andthe Irene Cathaway Band. He also performs acoustically as a solo artist, as well as a duo with Kenny Blackwell.He often accompanies Nicole Stromsoe and Julie Beaver., and is doing some studio work with Rick Sutton forDave Stamey’s next CD, along with Ken Hustad, Bill Severance, and Julie Beaver.

When asked what he hopes audience members take away from one of his shows, Dorian says, “I hope they areemotionally moved somewhere along the way, whether it is something pretty, or something gritty and real,or anything in between.” He likes to provide a variety of different musical styles, and he strives to always learnto become deeper and more rooted musically. He is preserving something that shouldn’t be lost, something that isintrinsic to all good music. He’s good at it. Go see him. Bring the kids and show them what roots music really is. ✤

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8 50 sound

2424 • • December 25 - 31, 2014 • Tolosa PressDecember 25 - 31, 2014 • Tolosa Press

Clubs & NightlifeSouth CountyTHE CLIFFS RESORT: 2757 Shell Beach Road, 773-5000 or cliffsresort.com.

F. MCLINTOCKS SALOON: Two locations: 750 Mattie Road in Pismo Beach and 133 Bridge St. in Arroyo Grande. 773-1892 or mclintocks.com. Live music at the Pismo Beach location every Fri. and Sat. from 6-9pm. Tennessee Jimmy Harrell and Doc Stoltey play on alternating weekends.

HARRY’S NIGHT CLUB AND BEACH BAR: Cypress and Pomeroy, downtown Pismo Beach, 773-1010. Every Thu. Front Row Karaoke. 12/5 The Jammies 9pm 12/6 Shameless 3pm The Jammies 9pm 12/7 Manny English 9pm 12/8 Manny English 7:30pm 12/9 JB Rocks 7:30 12/10 JB Rocks 7:30pm 12/12 CK Solution 9pm 12/13 Legends 3pm CK Solution 9pm 12/14 Double Shots 9pm 12/15 Double Shot 12/16 The Steve Tracy Project 12/17 The Steve Tracy Project 7:30pm 12/19 Stinger 9pm 12/20 Mid Life Crisis 3pm Stinger 9pm 12/21 Manny English 9pm 12/22 Manny English 7:30pm 12/23 Rock Solid 7:30pm 12/24 Rock Solid 2:30pm 12/26 The Little George Band 9-11pm 12/27 The LG Band 3pm The Little George 9pm 12/28 Shameless 9pm 12/29 Shameless 7:30 12/30 Double Shot 12/31 The Jammie 9pm

LAETITIA WINERY: 453 Laetitia Vineyard Drive, Arroyo Grande, 805-481-1772. www.laetitiawine.com. Live Music Saturdays and Sundays 1-4pm.

LIDO RESTAURANT AT DOLPHIN BAY: 2727 Shell Beach Road, Shell Beach, 773-4300 or thedolphinbay.com. Join Three-Martini Lunch every Thurs. and Fri. from 6-9pm. Live Music Every Tues. from 5:30-6:30 and Thursdays and Fridays 6-9

MANROCK BREWING CO. TASTING ROOM: 1750 El Camino Real ste A, Grover Beach, CA 93433. Tasting room M-Th 4pm-10pm, Fri 3pm-12am, Sat noon-12am, Sun noon-7pm

MONGO’S SALOON: 359 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, 489-3639. Karaoke Tuesday and Wednesday 9pm. Live Music and dancing every Friday and Saturday at 9pm.

MR. RICK’S: 404 Front St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7425 www.mrricks.com Happy Hour Monday-Thursday 4-7pm 12/5 Indian Valley Band 8pm 12/6 Matt Szlachetka 8pm 12/7 Soul Sauce 1pm 12/12 Bobby Santacruz 8pm 12/13 Bootyshakers 8pm 12/14 Matt Cross 1pm 12/19 Shameless 8pm 12/20 Soul Sauce 8pm 12/21 Living Large 1pm 12/26 Soundhouse 8pm 12/27 Legends 8pm 12/28 Soul Sauce 1pm

SEAVENTURE: 100 Ocean View, Pismo Beach, 773-4994. www.seaventure.com Live music every Wednesday from 6-9pm in the Fireplace room. Acoustic Sundays from 3-6pm on the Deck.

TALLEY VINEYARDS: 3031 Lopez Dr., Arroyo Grande, 489-0446, talleyvineyards.com

VENTANA GRILL: 2575 Price St. Pismo Beach, 773-0000, or ventanagrill.com. Matt Cross plays on Mon and Wed. evenings.

VINO VERSATO: 781 Price St., Pismo Beach, 773-6563 or vinoversato.com.

Every Tuesday: Side Effects

CREATIVE JUICES LOUNGE 874 Guadalupe Street, Guadalupe, CA 93434, 805-219-0518 www.creativejuicelounge.com 12/6 Louie Ortega

San Luis ObispoBON TEMPS CREOLE CAFE: 1000 Olive St., 544-2100. Zydeco music, live blues, and jazz on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

CREEKY TIKI: 782 Higuera St., 903-2591. www.creekytiki.com EVERY FRIDAY Live Music Directly Following

Concerts in the Plaza 12/04 Michael Keeney 12/5 Kenny Taylor 12/6 Tim Jackson 12/11 Tim Jackson 12/11 Matt Cross

FROG & PEACH PUB: 728 Higuera St. (805)595-3764. 12/04 Dave Miller Band 12/5 Dub Seeds 12/7 The Lower 48 12/9 DJ DP

THE GRADUATE: 990 Industrial Way, 541-0969 or slograd.com. Every Thu. Is Country Night 8pm 18+, Every Fri “Noche Caliente” or “Hot Latin Nights” 18+, Every Sat “Big Chill” hits from the 70’s 80’s 90’s 21+ & Every Sunday is Minor Madness 8pm-11:45pm

LINNAEA’S CAFE: 1110 Garden St., 541-5888 www.linnaes.com

LUNA RED: 1023 Chorro St., 540-5243 www.lunaredslo.com 12/4 Bear Market Riot 10pm 12/5 End of Prohibition Party 12/6 Rob Larkin and Debra Windsong 12/7 Sunday Set List 3-5pm 12/11 Girls & Boys 12/12 Josh Cody 12/13 Kenny Taylor 12/14 Chris Beland 12/18 Chris Beland

PAPPY MCGREGOR’S: pappymcgregors.com or 543-KILT (5458), 1865 Monterey St. Live music is Wed./Thurs./Fri. from 6-9pm. Old Time Fiddle & Banjo Show every Wed. from 6-9pm.

Thu 12/25 .... Closed Merry Christmas!!!

Fri 12/26 .... Ras Danny Sat 12/27 .... Dixie Giants Sun 12/28 .... TNB Social Club Mon 12/29 .... Toan’s Open Jam Tue 12/30 .... Pint Nite Wed 12/31 New Year’s Eve

Extravaganza Thu 1/1 .... Happy New Year!

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Pricing & Packaging to suit every budget & wedding size.805.235.6365 [email protected] www.carriejaymes.com


find your beat

8 50 sound

LIVE MUSIC THIS WEEK

782 Higuera St, SLO805.544.2200

11:00am-12:00am

Happy Hour Every Day 2-6

CORONA BUCKET(5 BEERS) ......................$15.00ALL DAY EVERYDAY

BRING YOUR TIKI KOOZIE AND GET $1 OFF ANY CANALL DAY EVERY DAY

MUNCHIESFISH TACO ............................. 3.50PERSONAL PIZZA ............... 3.50(PEPPERONI OR CHEESE) ONION RINGS ..................... 3.50SHOESTRING FRIES ......... 3.50SWEET POTATO FRIES .... 3.50

DRINK SPECIALS DOS EQUIS DRAFT............ 2.50STRONGBOW DRAFT........ 2.50DRAFT BEERS ...................... 4.00WELL DRNKS........................ 4.50CALL DINKS........................... 5.50PREMIUM COCKTAILS ..... 6.50

Closed Merry Christmas!Michael KeeneyMichael Keeney Happy New Year!

THU, 12/25FRI, 12/26SAT, 12/27

THU, 1/1

WINESon Tap

WINWI EWIWWINWIn Tn TTn apan nn

WWononoonon

(805) 773-1010690 Cypress St., Pismo Beachwww.harryspismobeach.com

Open 10am-2am Daily

THU12/25

FRI12/26

SAT12/27

SUN12/28

MON12/29

TUE12/30

WED12/31

THU1/1

9PM-1:30

9PM-1:00

Closed in observance of Christmas Day!

DOUBLE SHOT

FRONT ROWKARAOKE

WHERE THE PARTY NEVER ENDS!

7:30PM-11:30

9PM-1:00

THE LITTLE GEORGE BAND

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3:00PM-7:30

9:00PM-1:30

SHAMELESS

9:00PM-1:30AM

7:30PM-11:30

SHAMELESS

NEW YEARS EVE BASH! THE JAMMIES

SLO BREWING CO.: 1119 Garden St., 543-1843 or slobrewingco.com. 11/28 Breather Carolina 12/04 Young Dubliners 12/05 The Dead Volts 12/06 Grouch and Eligh (of Living Legends) 12/09 Tasty Treat 12/11 FMLYBND 12/12 Charlie Hunter & Scott Amendola 12/10 Ras Danny Duo 12/11 Cosmopolites 12/12 Charlie Hunter & Scott 12/13 Andre Nickatina 12/14 Hirie 12/27 Heart to Heart.

North Coast10TH STREET GRILL: 2011 10th St., Los Osos, 528-2011 or 10thstreetgrill.com.

CAMBRIA PINES LODGE: 2905 Burton Drive, Cambria, 927-4200 or cambriapineslodge.com. Entertainment every night in the Fireside Lounge.

FUEL DOCK SALOON: 900 Main St., Morro Bay, 772-8478

MOZZI’S SALOON: 2262 Main St. in Cambria, 927-4767.

Friday Night: Karaoke, Saturday Night: Live Music

OLD CAYUCOS TAVERN: 130 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos, 995-3209. Fri.-Sat.: Live music.

OTTER ROCK CAFE: 885 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, 805-772-1420. www.otterrockcafe.com Every Wed.: Karaoke, 8pm. Every Thu.: Thursday Night Spotlight, 8pm. *Closed every Tuesday 12/1 Monday Night Football Drink & Food Specials 12/4 Spotlight w/ Frankie 12/6 Renown 12/7 14th Annual Ultimate X-mas party pot-luck pro-jam 12/8 Monday Night Football Drink & Food Specials 12/12 Mike Keeny 12/13 Croondogs 12/14 Cloud Ship 12/15 Monday Night Football Drink & Food Specials 12/19 Wild Anderson Party 12/20 Bobby Santa Cruz Band 12/21 Meet the Foppers 12/22 Monday Night Football specials 12/27 Kenny Taylor Band 12/28 Stringtown Ambassadors 12/29 Monday Night Football 12/31 Lu Lu & the Cowtippers New Years Eve Bash!

SKIPPERS RESTAURANT: 113 N Ocean, Cayucos, 995-1122.

SWEET SPRINGS SALOON: 990 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos, 528-3764, sweetspringssaloon.com. Friday and Saturday: Live music from 9pm to 2am.

TOGNAZZINI’S DOCKSIDE: 1245 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, 772-8100.

WINDOWS ON THE WATER: 699 Embarcadero, Suite 7, Morro Bay, 772-0677. Live music every Monday and Friday evening.

North CountyASUNCION RIDGE: 725 12th St., Paso Robles, 237-1425 Live music Saturdays from 5-8pm

AVION & CLAW: 6155 El Camino Real, Atascadero, 461-9463 or avionandclaw.com. Live music Thurs.-Sat. from 7-10pm.

BROKEN EARTH WINERY: 5625 Highway 46E, Paso Robles, 239-2562.

BRU COFFEEHOUSE: 576 El Camino Real, Atascadero, 464-5007. www.brucoffeehouse.com Live music every Friday from 7-9pm.

11/14 Max Martinelli 11/21 The Simple Parade November artwork from Louisa Cardinali

CAMOZZI’S: 5855 El Camino Real, Atascadero, 466-1880.

D’ANBINO VINEYARDS AND CELLARS: 710 Pine St., Paso Robles, 227-6800 or danbino.com. Every Saturday 2-4:30 pm wine and music events.

LA BELLASERA HOTEL AND SUITES: 206 Alexa Ct., Paso Robles, 238-2834, www.labellasera.com. Guitar/Vocal duo, Adam Levine and Judy Philbin play every Thurs. from 7-9pm, in the dining room/bar.

LAST STAGE WEST: Halfway Station on Highway 41 (15050 Morro Road at Toro Creek), 461-1393 or laststagewest.net. Most shows start at 6pm. 12/4 Tanner Scott 12/5 Them Tracelin’ Birds 12/6 El Segundo 12/9 The Banjer Dan Show 12/10 Bluegrass Jam Night 12/11 Tanner Scott 12/13 The Stringtown Ambassadors 12/16 The BanjerDan Show 12/18 Tanner Scott 12/19 Panga 12/20 Dirty Cello 12/23 The BanjerDan Show 12/25 Tanner Scott 12/27 Alzheimer’s Association Benefi t Dinner & Concert featuring: “The Inglishmen” w/ special guest: BanjerDan 12/30 The Banjer Dan Show 12/31 NEW YEARS EVE w/ EL SEGUNDO

PAPPY MCGREGOR’S: pappymcgregors.com or 238-7070, 1122 Pine St. in Paso Robles.

PASO ROBLES INN CATTLEMAN’S LOUNGE: 1103 Spring St., 238-2660. Live entertainment Friday and Saturday at 9:30pm.

PINE STREET SALOON: 1234 Pine St., Paso Robles. www.pinestreetsaloon.com 805-238-1114. Every Monday Open Mic. 9pm. Every Tuesday/ Friday/ Sunday Marilyn’s Karaoke 9pm. Every Thursday North County Line Up Live Music 9pm.

THE PONY CLUB AT HOTEL CHE-VAL: 1021 Pine St., Paso Robles. www.hotelcheval.com 805-226-9995. 10/31 Dorian Michael & Nicole Stromsoe 7-10pm 11/28 Louie Ortega 7-10pm 11/29 Luke Bryon 7-10pm

THE RANCH: 1285 Mission St. in San Miguel, www.liveattheranch.com or 467-5047. 11/29 Chris and Nick’s “Rave Circus” 18+

SCULPTERRA WINERY: 5015 Linne Road, Paso Robles, 226-8881. Steve Key presents “Songwriters at Play” Sundays from 1-4pm. 12/7 Alice Wallace 12/14 Albert Jr. Band 12/21 Maurice Tani 12/28 Stringtown Ambassadors

VINA ROBLES AMPHITHEATRE: 3800 Mill Rd., Paso Robles, 286-3680. Check out Vina Robles Amphitheatre online for tickets, times, and pricing www.vinarobles.com. 1527 Shell Beach Road, Pismo Beach | (805) 295-6328

Open Mon-Sat 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am to 11:00 pm

8 Big-Screen TVs with NFL Ticket.

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LifestyleLifestyleREAL ESTATE

Not Using Bathroom and Laundry Vent Fans

Because of the high humidity in bath-rooms and laundry areas, vent fans should never be disconnected or un-used. The fan should always be turned on during use of the room even if it is noisy. Failure to use vent fans can result in water vapor getting into the drywall, electrical outlets and even the framing members. Over time, mold, mildew and fungi may grow in these areas. Water vapor that condenses on walls and win-dows can eventually fi nd its way into the walls of the home and weaken the structure through dry rot. Rooms where humidifi ers are used should also be well ventilated. Tip: If you are not using your fan because of noisiness, I suggest that you have the fan replaced with one that is advertised as low noise or quiet. Fans are relatively inexpensive and in the long run could save you thousands of dollars in moisture related repairs.

Overloading Upper CabinetsWhen stacking heavy dishes and glass-

ware in an upper cabinet, a homeowner can load the cabinet beyond its capac-ity. This can result in sagging shelves, or worse yet, detachment of the cabinet from the wall. Heavy china and cook-ware should always be placed in the lower cabinets. Do not overload cabinet draw-ers with heavy items and take care to not pull drawers out too far. This can result in the plastic guide being snapped off at the back of the cabinet drawer. Tip: Lower cabinets rest on the fl oor and are a better choice for storing heavy items.

Tinting Dual Pane WindowsHomes with dual pane windows (also

known as double-glazed windows or insu-lating windows) have two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer up to 5/8 inch in thickness. The air space between the dual panes is “dead air.” This area is so tightly sealed that air can neither enter nor leave the space. By placing a tinting

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fi lm on the inside of the window, the sun’s rays are refl ected back into the dead airspace. The temperature in this space canbecome so hot that it may cause the elas-tic seal to rupture, causing the insulating value of the window to be lost. Windows with broken or ruptured seals are easy to identify: they have moisture between the panes of glass. Homeowners should nev-er tint a dual pane window on the insideunless it is specifi cally approved by the window manufacturer. ✤

Nancy Puder is a real estate broker with Nancy Puder & Associates, the pre-mier boutique real estate company in Arroyo Grande. You are invited to con-tact Nancy with questions concerningyour property anytime as she alwaysenjoys hearing from you! Text or phone (805)710-2415 or email [email protected]. To enjoy other real estatearticles written by Nancy, go to www.NancyPuderAssociates.com or Face-book.com/Nancy Puder Realtor.

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LifestyleLifestyleMiss Etiquette

By Anita Shower

In checking with etiquette books, what is mentioned is that the per-son who is leaving may take his or

her boss to lunch on the fi nal workday. It gives the person an opportunity to tell the boss how much working for him meant and that you have every in-tention of keeping in touch no matter where your career takes you. The word ‘mandatory‘ does not factor into fare-well luncheons or dinners at the work place. A verbal resignation must be fol-lowed by a written resignation.

Some companies have a written pol-icy about such an event and go as far as to specify what is to be written on a farewell cake that is brought into the offi ce on the employee’s last day; how much may be spent on a gift from the employees and the company; and other matters dealing with lunch or dinner, such as who attends, who pays, and whether or not the retiring person’s family may attend.

Etiquette deems that if the retiring person does not want any type of cele-bration then the company should show that person respect by not embarrass-ing the departing employee with a cel-ebration or cards or a gift.

Remember; if you are leaving your

place of employment be the fi rst per-son that tells the boss your news. Keep it simple an direct. Do not back your boss into a corner and threaten to leave unless such and such is accomplished to your satisfaction. Do not let the boss fi nd out about your departure from the maintenance worker in the back build-ing.

Being tactful is a great part of resig-nation etiquette. Tact is knowing how and when to do things. Tack is hav-ing sense. Resigning should be tactful. Once you leave the offi ce, realize you may make a few personal, short visits; that is all. In other words, have sense about leaving and embrace the phrase “former employee.” Instead of making frequent trips to your former place of employment, concentrate on your new place of employment and your new co-workers. Let everyone remember you as the charming person you were when you were an employee of the company you left behind.

On your last day refrain from hum-ming that Johnny Paycheck song, “Take this job and.......” as you enter the elevator on your way down and out. You may live to regret it. Then what, foolish person? ✤

Dear Miss Etiquette: Do you know about farewell luncheons for an employee who is leaving a company? Is it mandatory? And what about a verbal resignation as opposed to a written one? The last person who left the place where I work didn’t want a good-bye lunch. All she wanted was ‘out!’

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CITY OF MORRO BAY ADVISORY BOARD VACANCIES

Applications are currently being accepted to fill vacancies on the following Commissions and Advisory Boards:

www.morro-bay.ca.us under the

Closing date for submitting applications is Friday, January 16, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. The interviews will be scheduled during the week of January 26th. Applicants should be present at the interviews in order to be considered by the City Council.

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Professional

Service Directory

AT THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY YMCA we are committed to meeting the needs of parents by offering fun, enriching camps. Vacation camps provide a safe environment where youth participate in a variety of exciting fi eld trips & activities, and overall help develop stronger, more confi dent young people. Sign-up for spring camp at www.sloymca.org or call 543-8235 for more informa-tion.

KRIS DILWORTH,FNP, CDE is a Family Nurse Practitioner, Certi-fi ed Diabetes Educator, and Certi-fi ed Insulin Pump & Sensor Trainer. She loves what she does, and makes it a point to spend adequate time with patients to teach and help prob-lem-solve for the many challenges of diabetes. Her goal is to keep you healthy! Call the offi ce of Roger Steele, MD, for appointments in San Luis Obispo or Grover Beach. (805) 541-1671

THE ABLE CHOICE, INC. offers support and services to families and children with spe-cial needs by experts in the fi eld. Special Education Consultant Dr. Jackie Kirk Martinez and her team provide research-based dispute resolution, in-struction, and intervention for children by advising families, agencies and school districts; supporting chil-dren’s needs in home, community and school; provid-ing assessments, program development, intervention and supervision; and offering professional develop-ment. Serving children from birth through 22 years of age. Call for a free consul-tation at (805) 295-8806 • www.theablechoice.com

PEPPERTREE COUNSELNG has been providing affordable services on sliding scale to SLO County for 25 years, starting at $30 an hour. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling. We have a staff of professional counsellors who work with clients to accomplish their goals in a timely and focused manner. Our approach is eclectic incorporat-ing behavioral and cognitive techniques. For an ap-pointment or more information on our services call Larry Ratner, Ph D, at 805 235 2910 or email [email protected]. We are located at 330 James Way, #180, Pismo Beach, Ca.

BATH PLANET of Northern Los Angeles has set a new standard of both quality and affordability within the bathroom remodeling industry. With a wide selection of acrylic bath system solutions, along with cutting edge accessible options, you can have a beau-tiful yet accommodating bathroom in as little as one day. Learn more about our remodeling solutions. 1107 El Camino Real, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 (805) 574-1101 www.bathplanet.com/northernla

EDDIE NAVAR-RO PAINTING INC. can cover all your painting needs, from interior and exterior residential and commer-cial painting. Including: cabinets, deck refi nishing, stucco repair, acoustic ceiling removal, drywall repair and/or texturing, fascia removal and/or repair, pow-er washing services, and much more. We use the fi n-est quality oil and water based material that are Eco friendly. Eddie Navarro Painting Inc. takes pride in attention to detail and great customer service.Our mission statement is “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. ” Col 3:23. No matter what the project is our customers are the most important because we not only provide a painting service but we have the plea-sure of getting to know and partner with them in the care and maintenance of their home or business. 805-448-9662

Increasing trends in medication use, prescribing, and prescrip-tion drug abuse are issues we

want to consider together as a com-munity. In 2010, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.) reported 48% of Ameri-cans took at least one prescription drug in the month the study was done. From 2000 to 2010, the per-centage of Americans using two or more drugs increased from 25% to 31%, and the use of fi ve or more drugs increased from 6% to 11%.

Patients discontinue medications as often as doctors prescribe them. Many times, patients never tell their doctor they’ve discontinued a medication and they rarely throw away the unused portion. Some patients bring medication samples and half-empty pill bottles to their physician’s offi ce for disposal. How-ever, this may not the safest mode of disposal. These half-taken packs of birth control, half bottles of an-tibiotics, and the occasional bottle of narcotic go into the offi ce trash.

Then, these unwanted medications make their way to dumpsters and landfi lls.

Disposing of unused medications safely keeps these medications out of our water supply and environ-ment. Safe disposal also prevents accidental ingestion by children and pets, and keeps drugs of abuse from getting into the wrong hands.

The best venue for safe disposal is your local Police Station. “Op-eration Medicine Cabinet” is a free disposal service for residents of San Luis Obispo County, for unwanted over-the-counter pills, supple-ments, medication samples, oint-ments, eye drops, creams, gels, and veterinary medications. Drop-boxes are installed at all local police stations and three Sheriff patrol sta-tions.

Safely dispose of your unwanted medications today!

Please note: All “sharps,” needles, syringes, and thermometers can be safely disposed of at any local phar-macy. For information on disposal

of “Hazardous waste”, like batter-ies and antifreeze, see www.iwma.com. ✤

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Rotary Sing-AlongPhotos By Evanne Mingori

NEWS

The 7th Annual Arroyo Grande Rotary Club Christmas & Holiday Sing-Along brought down the house at the Clark Center on Sunda y. ✤


NEWS

offi ce on West Grand Avenue. There is now evidence at my offi ce, at least on my property, that people have been living there every single night. We fi nd new clothing and new garbage in our side yard every single day. I called the police last week because we had two people smoking weed on my steps in the middle of business hours.”

A staff report states that panhandlers take advantage of situations in which the target is a captive audience, such as bus stops, public restrooms, and commercial business areas, particularly those patrons going to and from the local businesses. Faced with these circumstances, folks are “effectively prevented from exercising their right to decline to listen or politely avoid solicitation. The overall effect is to interfere with privacy, security and economic vitality by unnerving and inconveniencing business patrons, thereby discouraging dining and shopping activity within the city.”

“The actions of aggressive panhandlers creates a climate of intimidation and anxiety amongst members of our community,” Copsey said.

That said, asking for donations is constitutionally protected under the First Amendment, but limitations can be established in certain locations or in the case of aggressive solicitation, but panhandling cannot be outright banned.

“The proposed ordinance is intended to regulate solicitations consistent with the Federal and State laws,” Copsey said. “The ordinance may still allow certain types of solicitations that many may still fi nd irritating or a nuisance, however, they are still legal because of freedom

of speech.”Soliciting people in situations

where they feel vulnerable to a crime or coerced into giving money based on intimidation such as touching the person, following them, blocking someone’s way or repeatedly soliciting after they have said “no” would be prohibited.

“Although it is a misdemeanor under state law, we have had a diffi cult time getting cooperation with the District Attorney’s Offi ce for prosecution under this,” Copsey said. “It requires specifi c intent and requires the victim to come forward and want to pursue a citizen’s arrest and go to court, where this we can do as an infraction and you go to traffi c court. It makes it a little easier to enforce.”

Locations on the proposed list of prohibited places for panhandlers to operate include within 30 feet of a bank, enclosed ATM or check-cashing business after dark, in a public parking lot after dark without the consent of the lot’s owner, within 15 feet of driveways that lead to business or shopping centers, a bus stop or inside or within 15 feet of a public restroom.

The ordinance would expressly exclude the act of passively displaying a sign or some other indication that they are seeking donations.

“The reason I thought that this was important to keep in there was that we wanted to make sure it was clear to somebody looking at this that we aren’t trying to eliminate something that is legal—a First Amendment right and freedom of speech issues…. We aren’t restricting panhandling in itself. We are restricting aggressive panhandling in specifi c locations.”

Following council discussion, rules surrounding prohibited passive panhandling will be revisited.

The overall issue has cities up and down the state adopting tougher panhandling rules. Paul Peterson, a local homeless man, added a personal side to the debate.

“We are out there just trying to make a little bit of money, just trying to get by,” he said. “I’m trying to fi nd a job right now. I’m in between jobs. I’m out on the streets right now not able to feed myself, not able to feed my wife, not able to feed my dogs, not able to keep my car running—not able to keep gas in it and keeping it repaired—without being able to do this.”

Peterson said that he had put in three job applications that day in hopes of fi nding work again.

“Not all of us who are out there are trying to be bums,” he said. “We are not all out there trying to get drunk or get high. Some of us who are out there are actually trying to fi nd work right now.”

The council unanimously agreed to continue the discussion to its Jan. 20 meeting with further discussion on parameters concerning distances from business entrances not just driveways.

“I am pleased with the way it is

savings that the City will incur as a result of Copsey’s retirement means an additional $26,000 dip into the general fund.

“I can tell you if you were going to go out and get an interim for a six-month period of time, it would cost you a good deal more than $26,000,” Perrault said.

Copsey has 27 years in law enforcement, the last 10 of which have been as chief of the Grover Beach Police Department. In November of 2013, he took on the role of assistant city manager following a stint fi lling in for Perrault, who took a leave of absence due to illness. In a previous interview with the Coast News, Copsey says he will miss the daily

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written,” Councilwoman Karen Bright said. “I feel comfortable with the ordinance. I think this is a good start. It is something that we certainly can improve upon or modify as we need to as we go along.”

Along with the ordinance, the police department would create an information brochure for education outreach to the public about panhandlers and resources available to people in need.

Before drafting the proposed ordinance, staff looked at provisions in Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, Lompoc and Redondo Beach, among others. The cities of Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande do not currently have an ordinance directed at aggressive solicitation.

The City has already adopted an aggressive animal ordinance and the next step would be to set restrictions on area parks that often have a vagrancy problem as well as possibly creating no panhandling zones within the city. ✤

interaction with the community.“I think what has been the most

rewarding is the team we have built in both the police department and City Hall—the people that we have hired, worked with and trained,” he said . “I am pretty proud of the people that work here. The City is pretty lucky. We have good people and I am glad I was a part of that process.”

Prior to being hired by the City of Grover Beach, Copsey served as police chief for two-and-a-half years in King City. He also saw extended service with the City of Monterey where he began his law enforcement career.

Grover Beach has a population of slightly more than 13,000 served by a police department with 17 full-time sworn personnel and eight non-sworn personnel with an operating budget of $3.5 million. ✤


tracker website, see: www.SLOscoopspoop.com to fi nd GPS coordinates and hints to fi nd a cool pooch prize.

Partners in the program include: the cities of Arroyo Grande, Paso Robles, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Atascadero, SLO and Grover Beach, SLO and Santa Barbara

counties, Santa Maria, Los Osos and Templeton CSDs, Cal Poly, and Caltrans, according to the website.

Their motto is: “Remember: Poop Pollutes, so… Scoop the Poop, Every Stinkin’ Time!!!” ✤

NEWS

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Local cities are starting a new PR campaign to step up education on the issue of pet

wastes, part of a State program to wipe up bacterial pollution in storm water run-off.

Targeting priority water pollution sources, participating communities kicked off “SLO Scoops Poop” — a county-wide campaign “to protect public health, our local waterways, and our beautiful central coast landscape,” according to a press release from the City of Morro Bay.

In accordance with state regulations, the release reads, each participating community will be promoting a pilot program to address water quality impacts related to pet waste.

According to the press release, the pilot program will educate the public, and “identify social and physical barriers that prevent a

desired behavior or activity, provide educational prompts to elicit a desired behavior, and

provide incentives for the desired behavior.” It’s assumed that a rolled up newspaper won’t be part of the behavior modifi cation.

“Our mission is simple,” reads the release, “to get dog owners to pick up after their dogs every stinkin’ time! Every time you’re walking your dogs on trails, through local parks, or your neighborhoods remember to pick up your dog’s poop and dispose of it properly. This also includes accumulated dog poop in your yards.”

It continues, “When dog and other pet waste is left on the ground, not only is it smelly and unsightly, but it poses a health risk for other animals and people.

“In addition, unattended [“orphan”] poop during rains can contribute harmful bacteria [giardia, roundworm, viruses, and other parasites] to our local waterways.

“No one wants to swim in waterways that are polluted with harmful bacteria, especially fi sh and other aquatic life. ‘SLO Scoops Poop’ has selected eight different project locations in each participating community.” The project locations are mapped at: www.SLOscoopspoop.com.

Bureaucrats have apparently been tracking these orphan poop piles. “Each of the designated locations has either a pink or checkered fl ag that identify and represent the number of orphan poops that have the ability to impact public health and our local waterways. In addition, each of the eight designated project locations contains a unique treasure container — “canine cache.”

Of course there’s a poop project

‘Scoop the Poop’ Campaign Hatched


NEWS

Donation Kicks Off 5 Cities Homeless Coalition Cash Drive

The 5Cities Homeless Coalition year-end fundraising drive is off to a healthy start thanks to

a $7,000 donation from community member Joan Sargen.

Sar gen’s donation kicks off the Coalition’s efforts to raise $25,000 to underwrite referral and support services designed to connect South County families in crisis with services and to move them from the streets into stable homes.

Thus far in 2014, 5Cities Homeless Coalition has collected and distributed in-kind donations for needy families and children valued at more than $100,000, including food, household goods, clothing, shoes and work boots, dental and hygiene products, diapers, blankets, gift cards and more.

By the end of the year, the

organization hopes to match that amount in cash. Friends, businesses, service clubs and community organizations have already raised $75,000 to help with deposits, move-in costs, utilities, car repairs and other basic needs as well as referral and counseling services.

For more information or to contribute to the fundraising drive, visit www.5CHC.org or (805) 574-1638.

Pictured are Joan Sargen (center) kicks off the 5Cities Homeless Coalition year-end fundraising drive with

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Homelessness Isn’t SeasonalBy Camas Frank

much appreciation from Coalition representatives (left to right) Tom Clough, Janna Nichols and Laurie Morgan. ✤

On Dec. 18, the San Luis Obispo County Department of Social Services held its annual

memorial for the homeless who died this year with no one else to take charge of their mortal remains.

The same individuals that work with the homeless and vulnerable in SLO towards improving their quality of life, also refused to let the 12 who died this year go un-mourned or forgotten.

Laurel Weir, with the County’s Homeless Services Oversight Council, said they handed out fl ameless candles to the 35 or so attendees, a higher number present than last year but also a larger number of deaths.

“We want it to be a positive experience,” said Weir, noting that they take the time to focus the community’s

attention on what can be done for those in need and the programs that need support. “It was a clear cold day, which reminded us why we were there. We make it a hopeful, forward looking event to help keep this from happening again next year.”

Of the many efforts being made to help those in need get through winter on the Central Coast is the opening of the Prado Day Center as a nighttime warming station on nights when the temperature plummets to freezing or when heavy rain is forecast.

That doesn’t help as much as getting people into permanent housing though, which is why the Transitions Mental Health Association has been spearheading a drive to get the 50 most vulnerable people they could fi nd into subsidized housing.

Nicole Holst with County Social Services explained the process for fi nding the most vulnerable, which included coming up with a survey and vulnerability index through which 304 people were recommended to take part through their contact with various social service organizations and though the SLO Police Department’s community liaison offi cers with whom Holst rode along to meet some of those in need.

Transition’s Mark Lamour, manager for the “50 Now” program explained that grants and money approved by the County Board of Supervisors has enabled them to craft a $1.9 million program for a 3-year housing and assistance scheme that includes nurses,

therapists and case management workers to assist the 50 people given housing vouchers into permanent and sustainable homes. That’s in addition to their other ongoing housing programs that currently have 41 beds throughout the County.

“Funds have loosened up recently,” he said. “We’ve been working for years to get more transitional housing opened up but recently a lot more has come through.”

So, with government coffers a little less restricted in one area, locals are being asked to help out in another. The public outreach component of the 50 Now Project — the “Welcome Home Kit” — drive to get the formerly homeless off on the right foot under their new roofs.

Pre-made kits and individual items are being collected until Jan. 9. Suggested essentials include personal hygiene products, household basics, laundry and kitchenware — toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, lotion, toilet paper, deodorant, paper towels, trash bags, detergent, fabric softener, laundry basket, dryer sheets, roll of quarters, dish soap, sponges, pots, pans, aluminum foil, cling wrap and utensils. In short, non-perishable, non-food items only.

Donations can be dropped off at all SLO County Department of Social Services offi ces, Transitions-Mental Health Association, Arroyo Grande City Hall and United Way of SLO County. For more information about these efforts see: www.slohomeless.com. ✤

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In the BlackIn the Black

This holiday season, I was looking

through my past articles and I

came across a story that still impacts me till this day. I decided to dust off the

cob webs and post it again

to remind us all to never give up

when unexpected times happen. Enjoy! As I was hanging an ornament I

created in 1973 on our Christmas tree this past weekend, I reminisced of Christmases past and 1973 was the year we almost didn’t have a Christmas tree.

At 10-years old, you can only imagine how I might have been feeling about this situation. No Christmas tree? How would Santa know where to put all the gifts? As this memory came rushing back to me, I started to tear up.

All I could think about was how my mom saved the day and more

importantly, through her attitude, persistence, and faith, created a Christmas I have never forgotten.

That year the holiday season started out like many holidays of my past. My parents piled 14 of the 17 kids into our Dodge maxi-wagon van on the Sunday after Thanksgiving to drive to the Christmas tree farm. Our goal was to locate and to cut down the perfect tree in order to enhance our celebration with our family gathering of 60-plus people on Christmas Day.

We were headed out of town on that sunny day when all of a sudden we heard a big “THUD!” and discovered we had not one, but two fl at tires — on a desolate highway far from town.

As a 10-year old, you can imagine my disappointment. After a few hours of locating a tow truck (no cell phones in those days), getting both tires replaced, and trying to keep the kids entertained, my dad decided we were going to turn around and go home.

In fact, he said there was “no way we could afford a tree now after paying for the tires and tow truck.” I must admit I was thoroughly disheartened.

How would we have a true Christmas without a tree? How could we ever truly celebrate? Needless to say, the mood of the ride home in our van was somber and you could feel the angst from all the kids.

When we arrived home, my mom (the perennial optimist) said we would fi gure it out. In the meantime, she pulled out these wooden Christmas ornaments she had found a few weeks earlier on sale. She instructed us to sit around our two long, picnic-type tables in our dining room to paint and decorate our ornaments. She put on Christmas music and made hot chocolate.

I remember painting these ornaments with my siblings, laughing and showing off all our artistic creations. My mom turned the situation into a productive craft for us; one that got us working together. The mood of our family quickly shifted with this holiday activity.

I had almost forgotten that we weren’t going to have a Christmas tree until I was at school the following week. I kept hearing my classmates discuss their trees and the great lights,

decorations, and gifts that were already appearing underneath them. Needless to say, I kept asking my parents every night if we were going to get a tree. My dad was adamant that our tree money was already spent on those two new tires for the van.

Then, after school that next Friday something miraculous happened — there was a Christmas tree in our living room. This wasn’t just any tree, but a tall one that had two major gaps in the branches. It was by far one of the ugliest trees that I had ever seen (even to this day!).

But it was the most beautiful tree that I can remember. I was so excited and surprised by this tree standing in our living room, as were my siblings. My mom’s persistence made this happen.

Mom had gone to numerous tree lots and asked if there were any trees that the lot proprietor felt they would have a hard time selling. At the third lot, she found our tree. The proprietor had already put aside a few trees to discard.

The Ugliest Tree — A Beautiful Christmas MemoryBy Michael Gunther

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This Holiday Break, Catalyst Soccer is celebrating with a special week of Indoor Soccer and Futsal Camp.This special week of soccer fun and learning is for boys and girls who enjoy the game and are excited to play the skillful game of Indoor Soccer with the Coaches and Players of Cal Poly Mustang Soccer!

Go to our website for more information and to register online.

ANNUAL HOLIDAY INDOOR SOCCER AND FUTSAL CAMPS

Go to www.catalystsoccer.com or call 805-541-3031

INSPIRE! EDUCATE! CELEBRATE!

Three Great Locations! Week 1 A .......Dec. 29th-Jan. 2nd ........ (M-F) ........... Atascadero Bible Church ...........Atascadero Week 1 B .......Dec. 29th-Jan. 2nd ........ (M-F) ........... SLO Nazarene Church ...............SLO Week 2 A .......Jan. 5th-9th .................. (M-F) ........... Paulding Middle School .............Arroyo Grande

Two great programs for your kids! BOYS & GIRLS!

Little Skillsbuilders........ (Ages 4-6) ......(9:30 to 11am) Super FUNdamentals .... (Ages 6-14) ....(9 to noon)

See Ugliest Tree, page 34


In the BlackIn the BlackHarps in Harmony

Story and photos by Gareth Kelly

For centuries, the Celtic Harp has been producing magical music. When one hears the strings of a

harp, we wistfully dream of medieval times or a scene from Shakespeare, perhaps even maids in lush green pastures all playing in unison, the harps casually resting on their shoulders as their hands gracefully glide across this most ancient and intriguing of instruments.

Not your usual musical instrument of choice, the harp has a dedicated and passionate following all around the world. It just so happens that one of the fi nest, if not the fi nest, manufacturers of harps resides right here in San Luis Obispo. Nestled into a seemingly small commercial metal building at 220 Suburban Rd. lies Triplett Harps owned by Steve and Debbie Triplett.

“My husband (Steve) is a luthier, someone who makes stringed instruments. He started making harps, guitars and other types of instruments in Santa Barbara in 1978. Realizing there was resurgence within the harp industry, we moved to SLO in 1985, partly for the surf and partly to start Triplett. We now hand-make around 300 harps a year and are recognized as one of the fi nest harp manufacturers globally,” Triplett said.

Using only the fi nest materials from maple, walnut and Bubinga wood, Triplett is a one-stop shop for everything harp related. A labyrinth of woodshops seems to go on and on and on within their facility. The smell of freshly-cut wood fi lls the workshops where craftsman spend around one month hand-making each harp to order.

“We make everything in house. We hand-pick each piece of wood, make all our own strings, both nylon and wire. We laser engrave the details in the wood. We make all our own cases and do all our own painting. We even

work in conjunction with Idlers to take all their old boxes and packaging materials to make our own packages and do all our own shipping. About 70 percent of all our harps are sold outside of the United States, but we pride ourselves on our harps being U.S. made,” Triplett said.

Such is the reputation of Triplett Harps they are solely the harp of choice of renowned harp player Lisa Lynne. They have appeared in a Geico commercial and have been a fi xture on the T.V. show “The Big Bang Theory.”

“We like to think we are making a traditional instrument with modern techniques while holding on to ancient fl air,” Triplett said.

Having been around for centuries already, there seems no reason our fascination with this beautifully-sounding instrument will abate any time soon. If you have ever dreamt of playing a harp or would like to know

more, you can visit Triplett online at www.triplettharps.com. ✤

Gareth wishes everyone happy holidays. He is always looking for interesting stories, so while basking in your holiday food coma, send him your ideas to [email protected].

My mom asked if she could have the tree and would be happy to pay for it. The gentlemen asked my mom why she would want this tree, so she explained the situation. He ended up selling it to her for a nominal fee — well below cost. He wanted to give it to her, but she felt she needed to at least cover his costs.

That evening, we strung popcorn and cranberries to create garland for our magnifi cent tree. We decorated together with such joy and appreciation. Even though it started out as the ugly tree, it became a beacon of hope and excitement in our household. It was a tree, to this day, I have never forgotten.

Bottom LineWe might have the best intentions or

goals that we are working towards, but they may get side tracked by unexpected events or situations. How do you respond? Do you give up or do you keep your employees motivated and fi nd other creative solutions to achieve the goal? Are you persistent enough, even after being told “No” numerous times, to keep striving for your goal?

As a side note: Mom, I know you are in Heaven laughing at this story, you probably didn’t realize how much you impacted me with that tree. Every time I add that wooden ornament to my Christmas tree, I think of the ugliest Christmas tree I have ever seen, as well as your persistence. ✤

This is another article in a series on Michael’s entrepreneurial story and how being raised in a large family and his belief in creating a growth company with a work-to-live mentality has infl uenced his career. To read the previous articles in this series, see his blog at: www.Collaboration-llc.com. Michael Gunther’s column is a regular feature of Tolosa Press.

Ugliest Tree, from page 33


In the BlackIn the BlackBiz Briefs

Business News and AnnouncementsCompiled by Camas Frank

The San Luis Obispo Council of Governments is among the best in the nation according to a new report released last week by “Transportation for America,” a new guidebook for the staff and board members of Metropolitan Planning Organizations. The guide showcases best practices from across the country to showcase ways organizations can help their communities prosper. SLOCOG is highlighted in the guidebook as a national leader and a model for others to follow. Specifi cally, the report praises SLOCOG’s “Community 2050 Regional Blueprint” for its land use scenario planning. “We’re working to improve the lives of people in the San Luis Obispo region,” said Ron DeCarli, executive director of SLOCOG. “We already see this happening, but it is great to know that our successes are being recognized nationally, and can serve as a model for other states and regions.” The Innovative MPO is available online at www.t4america.org/the-innovative-mpo.

Organizations looking to put on special events in Morro Bay can apply now for grants to assist them in staging their shows. The Morro Bay Tourism Bureau has applications posted on its website, see: www.MorroBay.org/grants. Hard copies are available at the Visitor’s Center, 255 Morro Bay Blvd., (daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or the Morro Bay Tourism Bureau Offi ce, 850 Shasta Ave., (Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). The Tourism Bureau is the business arm of the Tourism Business Improvement District and has a primary goal of increasing motel occupancy, and so has traditionally supported events with the potential of bringing in visitors for overnight stays. The deadline for completed applications is 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30.

SESLOC Federal Credit Union has sponsored the “Zoomtown ATM” at the SLO Children’s Museum. Zoomtown is the name of the museum’s second-fl oor mini village, where the ATM has been a popular stop since the museum reopened in 2008. “We were so excited when the ATM exhibit became available,” said Kelli Beck, senior vice president of marketing and service management at SESLOC, “because the exhibit gives us the opportunity to promote youth education in a fun atmosphere of learning, creativity and innovation. It was a natural fi t.” The ATM, familiar for its brightly-colored keys, engaging display and interactive screen, allows kids to slide a numbered ATM card and enter a PIN to begin a transaction. The screen prompts children to calculate simple banking transactions that debit from their “pretend account,” teaching them to basic banking and math terminology.

SLO County has received new credit ratings from Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services with an upgrade from AA- to AA+ for revenue bonds, implying AAA rating for general obligation bonds, the highest rating issued. “We’re coming out of the economic downturn in better shape than we entered into it, and these ratings refl ect how effective our

fi scal policies have been over the past seven years,” said County Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector Jim Erb. The County also maintained an A rating for the Nacimiento water revenue bonds, but the Lopez Dam revenue bond rating was lowered from an A+ to an A due to a change in how S&P reviews and analyzes the bonds, Erb explained. S&P is touted as the world’s “leading provider of independent credit risk research and benchmarks, publishing more than a million credit ratings on debt issued by sovereign, municipal, corporate and fi nancial sector entities. This year, it raised the County’s ratings for certifi cates of participation, lease revenue refunding bonds, and pension obligation bonds based on S&P’s local general obligation criteria and its view of the County’s improved economy and strong operations through the recession, according to the ratings report.”

The SLO Chamber celebrated the opening of Moylan Terrace with a special ribbon cutting ceremony. The townhome housing project is named for George Moylan of the Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo. Moylan Terrace townhomes are a set of 80 “contemporary townhomes” with six different fl oor plans. The project is in walking distance from bus routes, retail shops, hiking trails, golf courses and more.

Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center was recognized by the Hospital Quality Institute earlier this month for its participation in the Partnership for Patients through the California Hospital

Engagement Network. Sierra Vista earned recognition in four categories — Fully Engaged Hospital, Improvement Hero, Improvement Champion, and Contributions to HEN. The 3-year project’s goals were to focus on continuous quality improvement, eliminate patient harm and build a safety culture among each of the participating hospitals. Overall, the CalHEN initiative in California positively affected 8,611 lives and resulted in $69.8 million in cost avoidance during the duration of the program, according to the Hospital Quality Institute. Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center’s participation resulted in reducing or avoiding harm to 78 patients at a cost savings of $490,000. Sierra Vista said it would continue to monitor the initiative’s goals.

The City of San Luis Obispo released its “Five Year Fiscal Forecast” with key revenue sources, namely sales tax and transient occupancy tax seeing growth over past years. Jordan Levine, economist and director of economic research for Beacon Economics said, “Over the next fi ve fi scal years we are optimistic about the City’s direction and are predicting continued positive growth. From real estate to local spending, each sector of the local economy is on the right track.”

The City’s 2013-15 fi nancial plan represented the fi rst time in fi ve years that the City Council passed a budget that did not require cuts.

Send business news and announcements for consideration to: [email protected].

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