Central Coast

Family
Nature

February 2012

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Library Voice Family Life

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Fun & Games Education

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Local History Local Heroes Calendar

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Family Events

Local Resources Ask Christina

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Celebrate Love! / Individuals with Disability Education Act / Elephant Seals

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Nature
Piedras Blancas Elephant Seals
for this amazing spectacle. Less than twenty feet away, huge seals were lying in the sand, flipping plumes of sand on themselves to keep cool. Looking along the cove (one of several) we could see thousands of seals—gigantic bulls (up to 5,000 pounds) with their characteristic elephant-like snouts; large mother seals nursing their pups, and hundreds of pups, squawking loudly. Volunteer docents were available to answer questions about the seals-such as the fact that the purpose of an adult male’s long snout (proboscis) is to attract a mate; and that the pups grow from 60 pounds at birth to 300 pounds before they venture out on their own in March. We learned that most of the births (we saw three in an hour) usually take place in the last two weeks of January. After mating season, which peaks around Valentine’s Day, the adults leave their offspring behind. Only about half of the 4,000+ pups born here last year survived. Much of this amazing spectacle didn’t require an explanation. Pups were making sure they got their mom’s attention, and made all sorts of noise to get it. Big bulls would posture and bellow (it sounds like a Harley revving

Cover Photo:
Mary Kelting Photography

by David Vogel

The Northern Elephant Seal, Mirounga angustirostris, is an extraordinary marine mammal. It spends eight to ten months a year in the open ocean, diving 1000 to 5000 feet deep for periods of fifteen minutes to two hours, and migrating thousands of miles, twice a year, to its land based rookery for birthing, breeding, molting and rest. The Piedras Blancas rookery, on Highway 1 seven miles north of San Simeon on the California Central Coast, is home

to about 17,000 animals. The area is open for viewing every day of the year and there is no admission fee or reservation required. When our family visited the elephant seal rookery in January, we were surprised by the large number of cars in the vista’s parking lot. What was far more surprising was the vast number of elephant seals lounging on the beach, just below the little bluffs that provide a spread-out viewing area
TM

up, or the lowest notes of a huge pipe organ) to establish dominance. And if you think that these huge bulls would be slow, you haven’t seen them in action, charging each other, banging necks and biting. Wherever you looked on this warm day, plumes of sand kept spraying up, covering both young and old with sand. Off in the distance plumes of water were also seen as gray whales were migrating south.

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Nature
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The origins of this rookery began on November 25, 1990, when 23 elephant seals were counted in the small cove just south of the Piedras Blancas lighthouse. Spring of 1991 brought almost 400 seals to molt. In January of 1992, the first birth occurred. The colony grew at a phenomenal rate. In 1993, about 50 pups were born. In 1995, 600 pups were born. The population explosion was underway. By 1996, the number of pups born soared to almost 1000 and the colony stretched all the way to the beaches that run along the Coast Highway. Where did the animals come from? Re-sightings of tagged animals indicate that most were from San Miguel Island, San Nicolas Island, and Ano Nuevo. However, all the major rookeries were represented. Overcrowding or failure to successfully wean pups may have prompted them to move. Friends of the Elephant Seal was formed in November of 1997. The goal of this dedicated group of volunteers is education. Docents are at the viewpoint to answer questions and help visitors get the most from their viewing experience. Public safety and respect for the seals are prime considerations. Improvements at the vista point have further enhanced the viewing experience, with a new boardwalk built by the California Conservation Corps with support from the California Coastal Conservancy, interpretive signs provided by the California State Parks, and handicapped parking lot improvements and access provided by California Department of Transportation. Bluff fencing has been added in an attempt to control runaway erosion. Since it is speculated that elephant seals return to mate on the same beaches where they were born, the colony will likely continue to grow. On our ride home along the beautiful coastline, we kept laughing and chatting about the antics of the seals and the grandeur of the scene (14,000 seals along a short stretch of beaches). We plan to go back soon. This amazing experience is not to be missed! For more information, you can contact the Friends of the Elephant Seal by phone at (805) 924-1628, or by email at: fes@elephantseal. org. Their website is at www. elephantseal.org.

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Library Voice
embassy mouse and the shy, brave, and somewhat dashing Bernard. These heroes risk their lives rescuing all sorts -- from a Norwegian Poet who writes gently of mice being held in the Black Castle; to Precious; to a little girl held by the cruel Duchess within the cold splendors of her Diamond Palace. Will these mice ever bridge their different backgrounds to find true love as they band together against common enemies? Natural enemies, rats and mice, come together in the 1971 Newbury winner Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert O’Brien. Mrs. Frisby, whose husband Jonathan is dead, has no one to turn to for help when her home is threatened. She seeks help from the odd and unknown rats who live under the rose bush and do strange things. As Mrs. Frisby fights to save her home and children, she learns that her beloved husband (along with the rats) had been held for years in NIMH’s laboratory where experimental injections made them smart, inventive and long-lived. With the love of Jonathan in her heart, her adventures with the rats solve her problem. And the rats… well, you’l just have to read it and find out! Some mice seek out love and adventure, while others have these thrust upon them. William Steig’s Abel’s Island tells of a comfortable, maybe too comfortable, mouse that is literally swept away from home and family while rescuing his wife’s scarf from a storm and then ends up stranded on an uninhabited island. There he must give up his soft habits, learn how to survive, and discover talents and skills within himself. Abel makes a home in a hollow log, learns to feed himself, and even creates clay figures of his wife and children. As he discovers how meaningful love and family truly is, Abel dreams of the day he might return to his dear Amanda in Mossville. Steig’s wonderful pen and ink illustrations bring Abel’s transformation to life, as they perfectly compliment this story of love and redemption. Illustrations really tell the story in the graphic novel Babymouse: Heartbreaker by Jennifer and Matthew Holm. For Babymouse, it’s all about getting cards and being asked to the Valentine’s Day Dance. She tries everything from kissing frogs to playing hard to get, with her usual dreamy fantasy sequences adding even more chuckles. Of course, Babymouse finds love where she least suspects to, and she has the photo to prove it in the end. Saint Valentine’s Day is beautifully celebrated in Mouse’s First Valentine by Lauren Thompson. Buket Erdogan’s sweet colorful illustrations gently show Little Mouse tagging along behind his sister as she gathers paper and lace and paint to create the perfect Valentine’s Day card. Who is this masterpiece for? Siblings should always be as celebrated as they are in this story, although I digress; this is supposed to be about true love and adventure! Who could imagine the hero of one of the most epic series would be a humble watchmaker? Hermux Tantamoq loves his peaceful ordered life with his pet ladybug until Ms. Linka Perflinger bursts into his watch shop. This dashing daredevil aviatrix drops off a broken watch and, in the wink of an eye, steals Hermux’s heart. The plot thickens when she doesn’t return and a shady rat tries to demand the watch for himself. Hermux must dig deep down to be daring and vigilant as he follows the rat into the mystery of Dr. Mennus, Tucka Mertslin the cosmetic tycoon, and other nefarious characters out to threaten his life. Time Stops For No Mouse is the first installment of this well written series by Michael Hoeye, followed by The Sands of Time and No Time Like Show Time. I love to give these to both middle graders and teens who enjoy stories at different levels, but with similar passion. I will confess that I love them even more when Campbell Scott reads them on the audio version. For me, true love has to include being read to, and choosing the right book is adventure enough.

Readable Valentines
by Kristen Barnhart

Ah, love is in the air with hearts and lace wherever you look and Valentine dedications on the radio, all of which leads me to mice. “Mice?” you ask, “why mice?” Because in the children’s library collection, we find that the greatest epics of love and adventure often star mice. I first made this connection in the 4th grade when I read the 1939 classic Ben and Me by Robert Lawson. Yes it was already an old book then. Wasn’t that about Benjamin Franklin and the clever mouse Amos who lived in his hat? Yes, but don’t forget the lovely

Sophia rescued from Paris. Although she reunited with her husband, after multiple readings, I’ve come to believe that Amos carried a torch for her. For some breathtaking international intrigue and adventure, one need look no further than the mice from that venerable organization, the Prisoners’ Aid Society. Since 1959, The Rescuers (by Margery Sharp) have embarked on hair-raising assignments to free those humans friendly to mice from cells worldwide. This book stars Miss Bianca, the lovely, elegant, sophisticated, Porcelain Pagoda-living

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Kristen Barnhart has been telling stories, recommending books, and stamping little hands for over 33 years throughout SLO County. She is currently a Youth Services Librarian at the San Luis Obispo Library. Kristen can be reached at (805) 781-5775 or kbarnhart@slolibrary.org.

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Family Life

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The festival of Lupercalia was celebrated on February 15. It honored Lupercus, the god of fertility (also considered a mighty protector and hunter), and Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture. The purpose of this festival was to invoke protection from Lupercus against wolves, which frequently killed livestock. This festival involved purification rites. The word February is derived from the Latin word This new festival was in honor of The tradition of Valentine’s Day “februa” which translates to St. Valentine, a Catholic martyr reaches back to ancient Rome. “means of purification.” who was executed. Today, the Its origins are connected to two Catholic Church recognizes pagan festivals, one celebrating The second festival was a at least three different saints Lupercalia and another honoring celebration of fertility honoring named Valentine or Valentinus, the goddess Juno Februata. Juno Februata, the goddess of one being a priest in Rome, Both festivals occurred in the women, marriage, passion and another a bishop in Terni, and month of February. In ancient love. On February 14th, names of a third one with little known times, February was considered teenage girls would be written on about him, except that he died the beginning of spring and a small pieces of paper and placed in Africa. All three Valentines are time for purification. Houses in a container. Teenage boys believed to have been martyred were cleaned through a ritual of would then randomly choose a on February 14, so it is not clear sweeping them out and sprinkling piece of paper and during the to which Valentine the church salt along with a certain type of period of the festival they would was referring. There are also become a couple. wheat throughout the house. various legends about the day. On February 14th, people celebrate Valentine’s Day by giving cards, candy and flowers to those they love. Children exchange valentine cards with their friends at school. Husbands give their wives beautiful bouquets of roses. Couples exchange gifts and candies; some even tie the knot. Valentine’s is a day of love, fun, and giving.

The Catholic Church did not approve of pagan festivals, so in 494 AD, Pope Gelasius renamed the Juno festival. The new festival had several names, including the name “Feast of the Virgin Mary,” and the date of this festival was changed from the 14th to the 2nd. Then, in 496 AD, Pope Gelasius changed the date of the Lupercalia festival from the 15th to the 14th and this festival was renamed “St. Valentine’s Day.”

a farewell note for the jailer’s daughter who had become his friend, and he signed the note “From Your Valentine.” In past times, Valentine’s Day in France and England was also associated with nature’s cycles, including migrations of birds and hibernation. From the “Parlement of Foules,” written by Geoffrey Chaucer, we read a reference to turtle doves: “ For this was Saint Valentine’s Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his mate.” William Shakespeare referred to Valentine’s Day in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and in Hamlet, when Ophelia says: “To-morrow is Saint Valentine’s day, All in the morning betime, And I a maid at your window, To be your Valentine.” Over the centuries, a tradition of exchanging cards and gifts have become a part of the celebration of love. At first cards were handmade, hand painted (sometimes even embellished with gold), edged with lace, decorated with dried and pressed flowers, and contained a heartfelt message. The oldest known valentine in existence is in the British Library in London, England. It contains a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife. The tradition of giving Valentine cards did not become popular in the United States until the 1840s, when Esther A. Howland started making and selling the first mass-produced cards. The

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One story is that Emperor Claudius II ordered Roman solders not to marry, since a soldier with a wife and a family might be less committed to warfare and sacrifice in a battle. St. Valentine married soldiers, and as a result of his actions he was executed February 14. A different story is that Valentine was a priest that tried to help Christians escape from Roman prisons. He was caught and put to death. A third story is that St. Valentine was imprisoned awaiting execution for his religious beliefs. He left

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Now. More than ever. It is your child’s time for...
phrase “Be My Valentine “has titles are: Celebrate Valentine’s become synonymous with Day with Love, Cards and Candy Valentine cards. by Carolyn Otto, Valentines’ Day: Candy, Love and Hearts by Elaine Poetry and verse gain much Landau, or Valentines Day Is... by attention on Valentine’s Day. Gail Gibbons. Hundreds of years ago, children in England would dress up like For some help in finding more adults on Valentine’s Day to go titles of great picks, go online singing the verses of the day. to http://childrensbooks.about. The following verse was popular com/od/toppicks/tp/valentines. in those times: Good morning to htm, and http://listplanit. you, valentine; Curl your locks as com/2011/01/list-of-books-toI do mine - Two before and three read-with-your-children-forbehind. Good morning to you, valentines-day. valentine. Kids love to make Valentine Here is a popular poem used in crafts, so look for one of these the United States in the 1900s fun-filled craft books: and often written on Valentine • Paper Crafts for Valentine’s cards: Rose are red, Violets are Day by Randel McGee. This blue, Sugar is sweet, And so are book has ideas on how to You. make Valentine heart crowns, heart flowers, a lacy heart Cupid, another symbol of the card, and a cupid figure or holiday, often appears on heart sculpture. Valentine cards. Cupid was the son of Venus, the Roman • All New Crafts for Valentine’s goddess of love and beauty. He Day by Kathy Ross has usually appears as a small child directions for making a and carries a bow and arrows. heart basket, heart butterfly It is believed that, if he shoots garlands, and a Valentine someone with one of his arrows, bookmark. that person will fall in love with the next one they meet. • Valentine’s Day Crafts by Arlene and Herbert Erlbach Like cards, gifts of candy and has instructions for making a flowers are offered to loved sun catcher heart. ones. Red roses mean true love; pink roses are for friends. The • Or search the web to find more old saying “You unlock my heart” creative craft ideas at web came from a tradition in Wales, sites like: http://familyfun. where lovers would exchange go.com/valentines-day or wooden love spoons that were http://holidays.kaboose.com/ carved and given as gifts. The valentines-day. spoons were decorated with keys and keyholes. Love is a wonderful thing, so be Another popular saying, “to wear your heart on your sleeve,” came from a custom in the Middle Ages, when young men and women would draw names from a bowl to see who their valentines would be. Each would then wear the name on their sleeve for one week. Our local libraries and bookstores carry a variety of excellent books about Valentine’s Day. Some
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Steven Smith is a resident of San Luis Obispo and a graduate of CSU Long Beach with a degree in Creative Writing. Steven is a painter/muralist and freelance writer. His art can be viewed at www.myspace. com/sloartiststevensmith. Contact Steven at: sloartiststevensmith@yahoo.com.

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Jack’s Jokes
What do you call a Groundhog who eats too much? What does a snowman take when he’s sick? What do you call two birds in love? A roundhog! A chill pill! Tweethearts!

Fun & Games
By: Amaya Dempsey

Hen & Ink

Word Search

Valentine

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1. fine shine 2. cute newt 3. thrift gift 4. marred card

S8 U3 D7 O K2 U4

Sudoku begins with some of the grid cells filled with numbers. The object is to fill the other empty cells with numbers between 1 and 9 (1 number only in each cell). A number should appear only once in each row, column, and region.

7 3 7 2 6 5 1 3 1 6 8 4 8 2 8 9 7 4 9 4 9 6 8 1 3

2 8

1 3 9

Hink Pinks (2 rhyming 1 syllable words matching a silly definition):
1. nice glow 3. cheap present 4. defaced valentine ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ 2. pretty salamander ________________ ________________

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Individuals with Disability Education Act Hype and Reality
by Brad Bailey The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004 is confusing to most parents. There are also some misunderstandings circulating among parents, and even educators. One prevalent idea is that it is better to avoid looking into this process, because children who participate suffer from ridicule and are stigmatized. While these things can happen on occasion, perpetuating such ignorance often undermines the intent of the act and the hope of all parents – to have a happy and successful student. IDEA is designed to ensure that all children have a fair, equal, and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education, with equal access to the same challenging core-subject curriculum as any other child. To make that happen, some children need the support of specialized instruction and services, so they can access the same quality of education as their age/ grade-level peers. Criteria must be met for children to qualify for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and related services. There are also steps for parents to take with school officials to deal with their child’s lack of academic, social, emotional, or behavioral success. In this article, I assume that the reader has already taken every reasonable step available to try to support their child’s education, and these efforts have not been entirely successful. This may involve months or years of efforts, but their child is barely getting by. Barely getting by is NOT what being a successful learner is about under any circumstance. If parents wish to know if an individual education plan and related services are needed to support their child, they should think about what may present obstacles to their child’s school success. Obstacles can include things like immaturity, being one of the youngest in his/her classroom, not having attended any pre-school learning opportunities, moving between schools/districts during school years, language barriers, long-term illness, premature birth, physical ailments such as severe asthma, and other things that can prevent a child from developing within a normal range. The first step that I recommend to parents is getting an indepth physical exam from their child’s pediatrician. Normal or corrected vision and hearing are critical to learning in a busy and noisy classroom. The next step is to request, in writing, that your child receive a full-battery of psychoeducational assessments. Throughout this process, always remember: IF IT IS NOT WRITTEN, IT DOES NOT EXIST. “Psychoeducational” simply means that your child is assessed for academic, cognitive, socialadaptive, communication, sensory-motor, intellectual, and vocational / career (if age appropriate) development, and complete health and development histories are created. I will describe these assessments, and note why they are important. 1. Academic: Often a standardized test (scored based upon a similar normed group of children to compare how your child performs in relation to others at the same grade or age level), that measures current reading, language, and mathematics skill levels. It is often administered by a trained teacher-specialist. Importance: Academic assessments determine what your child’s strengths and weaknesses are in particular areas of core subject matter. Example: Your child may grasp a math concept like fractions, but her ability to compute (add and subtract fractions), is low. Or, your child may be able to read words, but has trouble comprehending their meaning in context to the story. 2. Social-adaptive: These development scales help to tell what individuals can do for themselves and how they get along with other people. They may also measure affective functioning. Importance: Children are pleasers by nature. All children need to feel that they “fit in” and can get along with peers and significant adults. The ability to “adapt” in given social and group learning situations in a classroom and on the play-yard, is a critical element that propels a child’s sense of self and confidence, and contributes to their social learning environment. If a child is picked on or ostracized on the playground, you can bet that they will be in no frame-ofmind to learn. If this happens on a regular basis, the next thing he/she will say is: “I hate school; I do not want to go back!” 3. Sensory-Motor Development: These tests measure how well an individual coordinates body movements in small and large muscle groups. They may also measure perceptual skills (how we process and internalize something taught to us). Tests should be performed by a Licensed Occupational Therapist (O.T.), and will be if you include this preference in your written request for assessment. Importance: These measures can determine skill deficits regarding: Neuromuscular - range of motion, strength, postural control, shoulder stability; Sensory Processing – vestibular (movement), tactile (touch), proprioception (joint sense), ocular motor skills (eye muscle movement); Motor Behavior - ability to plan and perform movements, bilateral coordination skills (using two-hands together); Fine Motor development - visual-motor (nonmotor) and perceptual motor (motor) skills; Handwriting; Self-help Skills, and Pre-Vocational Skills. A child’s ability to succeed in learning is dependent upon development of these skills. 4. Communication Development: These tests measure one’s ability to understand, organize, and use language clearly

Education
and appropriately. Tests can measure one’s voice, articulation (clarity and pronunciation of letters and words), fluency (the rate of speed and clarity when we speak), as well as language. One of the most critical assessments in this area is “Pragmatics.” Pragmatics includes how speakers use utterances to make requests, promises, or threats; how utterances differ in degree to which they are polite; how the structure of utterances allows speakers to “background” some information while “foregrounding” other information. Pragmatics covers all the ways that grammar serves the needs of speakers. These tests can also measure the ability to “process” information that children are hearing, reading, or writing. Importance: Successful learners must be able to process information at or near the speed that it is flowing to them. Often, children will process information so much slower than expected, they miss the intent and give-up. This can be very damaging to their sense of confidence, and make them feel like they are unable to learn. This is simply NOT TRUE! 5. Intellectual Development: These assessments measure how well an individual remembers what is seen or heard, how well that information is used, and how problems are solved. They can also reflect the learning rate and assist in predicting school performance. Importance: Current intellectual functioning measurements are often referred to as “IQ Scores.” IQ scores can measure a child’s current functioning across several factors, and can also “predict” (not always accurately), how successful a child will be as a learner in the future. Measurements of intellect can reveal specific target areas that need intervention and/or accommodation, so a child can build strategies “around” a measured deficit. Very often, children outperform their current and predicted ability to be successful learners. As an education advocate, I emphasize that there is no obstacle that cannot be overcome by appropriate support and constant reinforcement of progress. Never allow an assessment or person to determine or limit your child’s potential for success. 6. Vocational / Career (generally administered at age 14 or above): These tests measure an individual’s interests and abilities, work readiness and/or occupational preparation. 7. Health and Development History: A child’s birth history, family history and dynamics, physical health, medical, psychological, and mental health history. Importance: These are all elements that contribute significantly to success in school. While this may sound strange, I have a client who discovered a 75% loss of hearing in his right ear at age 14. This was finally called to his parent’s attention because he never looked at the teacher when she spoke to him - he always turned his head to the left trying to hear. I was shocked to read several years of school test results that showed his hearing to be within normal range. 8. Mental Health Evaluation: Optional, depending on health and development history, past and current behaviors, and how behaviors may impact the learning of the child or children around them. Importance: Mental Health is like physical health in some ways. Colds come and go; so does confidence and mild depression or anxiety. Our mental health is influenced by significant life events and many other factors. What matters is how we cope and the support we recieve. Mental health issues can interfere with the learning process of children. 9. Observation: Standardized test results vary in accuracy depending on factors including skills of the test administrator, the child’s physical and mental condition, and how the child is introduced to the testing procedure and made comfortable with the process. Importance: It is only through combining written assessment with observation of assessed tasks actually performed in a classroom setting, that one can get accurate-as-possible data to determine a child’s strengths and needs. I will continue this article in the March issue, with step-by-step information on how to have your child assessed. Remember that, whether your child is 6 or 16 – it is never too late to begin the assessment process.
Brad Bailey, M.A. Ed. is an Education Advocate, Retired School District Superintendent, Principal, and Teacher of regular and special needs students. He can be reached at 927-5889.

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Local History
Fast Food Joints of

100 Years of Downtown Businesses:

San Luis Obispo:

The Cross Streets
This much-anticipated 3rd book of the San Luis Obispo 100 Years series is available from your favorite local bookseller NOW!

San Luis Obispo
by Guy Crabb

Has anyone noticed that there are a lot of hamburger places in San Luis Obispo? As I walk around downtown, the newest hamburger joints in town are The Habit and Eureka Burger. When you combine these two new places with the already established burger places, it feels like downtown San Luis Obispo is having a “burger war.” Mother’s Tavern (the old Union Hardware store location) has turned into MoTav with a focus on burgers, and then there’s McLintock’s with a great juicy burger, Buffalo Pub has its great blue cheese burger, and there are several more options in town. It still is crazy to see the long lines at Firestone, which serves one of my favorite cheeseburgers. Every time I get one with a big basket of fries, I remember when I bought tires at the same location many years ago. If you travel up Monterey Street and stop in at Frank’s, you can get a Monster Burger. Is anyone else starting to feel like eating a big, fat, juicy cheeseburger? Since we’re on the topic of burgers and I write about history, I bet you’ve guessed that I have done some research on burger places of the past. I’ve also found the history of a few current established burger places. Since we are already up on Monterey

Street, let’s talk about Frank’s Famous Hot Dogs. Their website tells us that Frank’s started in 1977 at the corner of Broad and Chorro and then they moved in 1988 to their present location. We always go to Frank’s to get the best hot dogs in town. If you sit at one of the back tables by the bathrooms, there is an old picture on the wall of a guy standing in front of what I’m guessing is Frank’s and in the background, you can see the cost of a hamburger. Frank’s still serves up a great burger after all these years. When my oldest daughter Katie was in high school, she used to walk down to Bishop’s Burgers. Splash Café is there today, and Katie tells me that the burgers were good, but walking down there from school was the real highlight. My good friend Matt reminds me that before Splash Café and Bishop’s Burger, the famous Ed’s Take Out was at this location. The building did not look like it does today. It was smaller and could get very crowded at lunch. Splash Café pays homage to Ed’s with a great painting inside the café. Ed’s Take Out served up a burger good enough to keep people coming back for many years. As we move down the road, I need

Enjoy Your Memories!
Also available at Barnes & Noble, Crushed Grape, Antiques on Monterey, Boo Boo Records, the History Center, Apple Farm, and Volumes of Pleasure. G UY C RABB P UBLISHING
Get an autographed copy at www.slo100years.com

to remind some that there was once a Farley’s Jr. Restaurant on the corner of Morro and Marsh streets. I was lucky enough to buy one of their menus, probably from the 1970s. The menu has a whole group of “International Burger Bar” choices. A Texas Chile Burger would set you back $2.60, while a Lumber Jack cost $3.50. The latter was “A half pounder served on garlic bread, with Jack cheese, spaghetti sauce and jalapeno.” The list of burgers on the menu included 15 different options. Another great restaurant on Higuera that served up a nice hamburger was Corcoran’s, which was a long time favorite near the corner of Chorro and Higuera streets. Don’t worry everyone, I won’t forget Scrubby and Lloyd’s. Do you think I’m crazy? Don’t answer that... I also cannot forget to mention Foster’s Freeze, which has been serving up burgers at its current location for over 50 years. My wife and I just rode our bikes downtown and stopped at Foster’s and split a burger and fries. It still is a fun place to pull up on your bike and get a quick burger or ice cream. Before Louisa’s Place on Higuera, there was a restaurant called the Best Ever Grill at that location. You would have had to be in town during the 1960s to enjoy one of their grilled burgers. I don’t think anyone would remember a burger joint that was at 589 Higuera called Dad’s Hamburger Place in the 1940s. It was at that location for many years. I figure that with a name like that, it must have served up one outstanding burger. Outside of downtown, I remember going to the Sizzler on Foothill. The Panda Express is now using

that location. I remember taking my daughters there to order burgers. That Sizzler always cooked the best steaks and burgers. I also used to love their salad bar. Another place near the Sizzler was the Dairy Queen on north Broad. Dairy Queen was very similar to Foster’s Freeze and served up a quick hamburger. I used to love those hamburgers, because the juices would always form a little grease puddle at the bottom of the paper it was wrapped in and the cheese would stick to the paper. Scrubby and Lloyd’s was probably the most famous burger joint in San Luis Obispo. David Middlecamp has a great website/ blog called Photos from the Vault, and he wrote a blog with Scrubby and Lloyd’s as the topic. People wrote in and each one of them had wonderful memories of this great little hamburger joint. Lloyd Pettenger and Zada “Scrubby” Lewis ran the place with Lloyd cooking and Scrubby serving up the grub. They served up a burger that people would stand in long lines for. You always felt lucky if you were able to snag a booth. Way back in the 1940s, 35 cents would get you a burger and soda. Many people also remember enjoying their popular Bean Burgers. Now go out and get a big fat juicy hamburger (maybe with blue cheese, bacon, lettuce, pickles, and a big toasted bun) at your favorite place. Isn’t learning about history burgerlicious?
Guy Crabb teaches at Charles E. Teach Elementary School in San Luis Obispo. He graduated from Cal Poly SLO and has been teaching for over 20 years. Guy was selected as San Luis Coastal Unified School District Teacher of the Year for 2006-2007. Reach him at crabbx5@charter.net.

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A Musical Tale of “The Princess and The Pea”
February 25 – March 11, 2012
Saturdays @ 2 PM & 7 PM, Sundays @ 2 PM $14-20 You’ll never look at fairy tales quite the same way again! Unity, 1490 Southwood Drive, San Luis Obispo

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Central Coast Family • February 2012

www.brownpapertickets.com
• www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 13 

Local Heroes
Enhance Your Outlook on Life: Share Literacy!

by Beth Wonson

“One of my goals is to read, write and speak fluent English,” writes Maria Cortez of Santa Maria. “I like to come to English class, because I want to improve my English and be able to communicate with people who speak English.” Maria has been attending the Central Coast Literacy Council’s classes at St. John Neumann Church on West Orchard Street in Santa Maria every Monday and Wednesday morning. CCLC volunteer tutors and Center Director Dolores Sequi provide classes and one-on-one tutoring to approximately 20 students who have been attending since September of 2011. “Coming to this class is helping me to be more confident about myself speaking English, because this is a

small group and when somebody is talking, everybody pays attention and everybody has the opportunity to talk and practice English.” writes Maria, a first year student. According to CCLC’s Executive Director Beth Wonson, volunteer tutors provided over 6,500 hours of tutoring and teaching this past year. “People seek out our services for a variety of reasons. A young man from India, who is taking classes at Allan Hancock College and working parttime, is on the waiting list for a tutor. His goal is to work on pronunciation, spelling and grammar. Students at Riverview Center in Guadalupe are primarily mothers and grandmothers who want to help their children be successful in school. Attendees at one

of our newest centers, Faith Korean Church, are working to improve literacy skills for the workplace and for college.” says Wonson. While it may appear that volunteers are helping only students, benefits actually reach the whole community. The more people are able to use and understand English, the more they are able to positively participate in their community, work, family, and school. As a volunteer, you will also enjoy significant social, emotional and health benefits. “You become more connected to your community and make new friends who share your interests.” says Wonson. “Studies show that volunteering increases confidence, esteem, and life satisfaction and provides a sense of accomplishment. In other words, by volunteering and tutoring, you will feel better about yourself, your life, and your future goals.” The skills learned and practical experience gained by volunteering as a tutor with the Central Coast Literacy Council can also help enhance your resume, particularly if you are interested in adult education, literacy, organization, program management, and cultural competency.

CCLC is expanding its reach and is looking for volunteer tutors, assistants, and those who would like to move up to become Center Directors. No prior experience is necessary and you do not have to be bi-lingual. CCLC volunteers receive training and on-going support, including teaching strategies and materials. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a volunteer or a student with the Central Coast Literacy Council, please call, email, or stop by the office located in the beautiful Santa Maria Library. The next tutor training is on Saturday, February 25th and Saturday, March 1st, 2012. Space is limited and preregistration is required. A $15 CCLC membership fee is requested to cover the cost of materials. For details, visit www.centralcoast literacy.org, send email to cclcread@ mypowerpipe.com, call 925-0951 x 837, or stop by the office at Santa Maria Library.
Beth Wonson, a Central Coast resident since 2008, is a former high school assistant principal and special educator. Wonson was appointed Executive Director of the Central Coast Literacy Council in December of 2011.

Literacy Changes Everything

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Central Coast Family

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February 2012 Free Ongoing Events
SUnDaY
FARMERS MARKET: 11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club

MonDaY 30 MARKET: FARMERS
2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria

TUESDaY
3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:30-4:15pm AG

29

31 MARKET: FARMERS

American Heart Month American History Month Black History Month Children’s Dental Health Month National Wild Bird Feeding Month Responsible Pet Owners Month International Friendship Month

February is:

Birthstone: Amethyst

8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 5:00-8:00pm Pismo, Main St & Dolliver LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:30 AG, 11:00 NI

WEDnESDaY THUrSDaY 1 MARKETS: 2 FARMERS FARMERS MARKETS:

FrIDaY
FARMERS MARKETS:
9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO

SaTUrDaY
8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG

3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG

3 VETS HALL MB - 1st FRI 5:00pm 4 BINGO FARMERS MARKETS:

Flower: Iris or Violet

LangSTon HUgHES’ BIrTHDaY (Born in 1902) naTIonaL FrEEDoM DaY

groUnDHog DaY

SLO CO GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY 1st SAT 12:30am IOOF Hall SLO

ICE CrEaM BrEakFaST DaY

CHarLES LInDBErgH’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1902) roSa Park’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1913)

5 FARMERS MARKET:

11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club

6 FARMERS MARKET:

2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria

3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:30-4:15pm AG

7 FARMERS MARKET:

Hank aaron’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1934) WESTErn MonarCH DaY DISaSTEr DrILL DaY SUPErBoWL xLVI

BaBE rUTH’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1895)

CHarLES DICkEn’S BIrTHDaY (Author born in 1812) LaUra IngaLLS WILDEr’S BIrTHDaY (Author born in 1867)
FULL MOON

8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 5:00-8:00pm Pismo, Main St & Dolliver LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:30 AG, 11:00 NI

8 MARKETS: FARMERS

3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG

9 FARMERS MARKETS:

10 MARKETS: FARMERS

9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO

11 MARKETS: FARMERS

8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG

UMBrELLa DaY Don’T CrY oVEr SPILLED MILk DaY HErSHEY’S CHoCoLaTE FoUnDED (in 1894) BoY SCoUT DaY (Founded in 1910) TooTHaCHE DaY WHITE T-SHIrT DaY naTIonaL InVEnTor’S DaY

12 MARKET: FARMERS

11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club

13 MARKET: FARMERS

2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria

3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:30-4:15pm AG

14 MARKET: FARMERS

aBraHaM LInCoLn’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1809) gET a DIFFErEnT naME DaY CLEan oUT YoUr CoMPUTEr DaY

8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 5:00-8:00pm Pismo, Main St & Dolliver LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:30 AG, 11:00 NI

15 MARKETS: FARMERS

3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG

16 MARKETS: FARMERS

17 MARKETS: FARMERS

9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO

18 MARKETS: FARMERS

8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG

SUSan B. anTHonY’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1820) naTIonaL gUMDroP DaY

ranDoM aCTS oF kInDnESS DaY PLUTo DISCoVErED (By Clyde Tombaugh in 1930)

VaLEnTInE’S DaY

19 MARKET: FARMERS

11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club

20 MARKET: FARMERS

2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria

3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:30-4:15pm AG

21 MARKET: FARMERS

8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 5:00-8:00pm Pismo, Main St & Dolliver LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:30 AG, 11:00 NI

22 MARKETS: FARMERS

3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG

23 MARKETS: FARMERS

24 MARKETS: FARMERS

9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO

25 MARKETS: FARMERS

8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG

PrESIDEnT’S DaY (honoring Lincoln & Washington)
LoVE YoUr PET DaY Mr rogEr’S nEIgHBorHooD DEBUT (In 1968) JoHn gLEn orBITED EarTH (In 1962) TooTHPICk PaTEnTED (In 1872) MarDI graS
NEW MOON

WorLD THInkIng DaY BE HUMBLE DaY gEorgE WaSHIngTon’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1732)
InTErnaTIonaL Dog BISCUIT aPPrECIaTIon DaY

naTIonaL TraDIng CarD DaY

qUIET DaY

26 MARKET: FARMERS

11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club

27 MARKET: FARMERS

2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria

3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:30-4:15pm AG

28 MARKET: FARMERS

HEnrY WaDSWorTH LongFELLoW’S BIrTHDaY (Born in 1807) CarnIVaL DaY LEVI STraUSS’ BIrTHDaY (Born in 1829) no BraInEr DaY PoLar BEar DaY PUBLIC SLEEPIng DaY

8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 5:00-8:00pm Pismo, Main St & Dolliver LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:30 AG, 11:00 NI

29 MARKETS: FARMERS

3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG

1 FARMERS MARKETS:

2 FARMERS MARKETS:

9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO

3 FARMERS MARKETS:

8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG

LEaP DaY (Occurs every 4 years!)

List Your Event!
Email press release to: ccfamilyed@gmail.com by the 15th of prior month

See Family Events & Local Resources on pages 18-21

Central Coast Family

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Family Events
FRI JAN 13-SUN FEB 4 at 8:00 pm: Avenue Q at Unity, 1490 Southwood Dr, San Luis Obispo. The season opens when “Sesame Street meets South Park” in the Tony Award Best Musical of the Year, smash-hit, Avenue Q. This delightful parody dares to ask the question, “What do you do with a B.A. in English? Price: $20. Avenue Q is presented as part of Kelrik’s After Dark series. Due to the show’s adult subject matter, audience members under the age of 17 must bring a parent or guardian. Contact: 543-4250.

2-SAT FEB 4 (times & ticket prices vary): Immersion at Alex & Faye Spanos Theatre, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. Immersion, the Cal Poly’s Orchesis Dance Company’s 42nd anniversary concert, will continue to explore new paradigms for the Dance Program. Contemporary, ballet, jazz, modern and a fusion of world and street forms will illuminate pertinent topics and artistry. Don’t miss this high-powered program! Tickets: Prices vary. Contact: 756-2787 or http://pacslo.org. SAT JAN 28 1:00-5:30 pm: A Celebration Of Environmental Literature, Art, And Music at the Masonic Lodge, 859 Marsh St, SLO. Enjoy a pleasant afternoon of dining while listening to authors Catherine Ryan Hyde of Pay It Forward and Vicki Leon of How to Mellify A Corpse. The event also features a plein air art demonstration by Douglass Stennhouse, an exhibition with over 10 artists, and beautiful music by the SLO Symphony. Sponsored by Santa Lucia Chapter of Sierra Club. $75 general, $35 students. Contact: 543-8717. SAT JAN 28 7:00 pm: Standup For Autism: A Benefit With An All Female Comedian Line-Up at Cuesta Performing Arts Center, Hwy 1, SLO. Central Coast Autism Spectrum Center hosts three of America’s funniest women: Vicki Barbolak, Shawn Pelofsky, and Roz Browne, and a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. Cost: $20 includes parking. Contact: 763-1100 or http://standup. autismspectrumcenter.com. SUN JAN 29 12:00-4:00pm: Central Coast Wedding Professionals Wedding Fair at Embassy Suites, 333 Madonna Rd, SLO. Over 50 qualified wedding professionals will be in attendance! Cost: $10 per person, $15 for engaged couples. Contact: 459-6594 or http:// ccwp.com. SUN JAN 29 at 3:00 pm: Galumpha at Cohan Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. This family-friendly show combines breathtaking acrobatics, striking visual effects, physical comedy, and inventive choreography to bring audiences a world of imagination and beauty with a sensory feast of images ranging from the ridiculous to the sublime. Cost: $16-27. Contact: 7562787 or http://pacslo.org. TUE JAN 31 10:00-11:30 am: Alzeimer’s Café at the Party Barn at Magnolia, 4620 Song Ln, Orcutt. Hosted by various cosponsors, the free Alzheimer’s Café offers a relaxed atmosphere where people can meet and comfortably discuss issues related to living with the disease and dementia. Contact: 5473830.

THU JAN 19-SUN MAR 4 (times vary): Greater Tuna & “The Pack Vaudeville Review” at The Great American Melodrama and Vaudeville on HWY 1 in Oceano. This tall Texas tale takes place one hilarious day when popular disc jockeys, Arles Struvie (George Walker) and Thurston Wheelis (Billy Breed), spin morning musings on the popular Radio Station OKKK. They not only deliver the news and farm reports, but also introduce us to men, women, children and animals of some of Texas’ most colorful residents. This irreverent and insightful send-up of small town life is a “tour-de-farce” of costume quickchanges and comic characterizations. Then trade your overalls for your tuxedo in a tribute to the legendary “Rat Pack” in “The Pack Vaudeville Revue.” Tickets: $18-$22, with discounts for groups, seniors, students, active military, and children. Contact: 489-2499 or http:// americanmelodrama.com. SAT JAN 21-SUN FEB 5 at 2:00 pm: Pinkalicious at Unity Church, 1490 Southwood Dr, SLO. This kid-friendly musical production tells the story of a little girl who eats too many colored cupcakes and turns pink! Tickets: $14-20. Contact: 543-PLAY or http:// kelrikproductions.com. FRI JAN 27 at 8:00 pm: Forbidden Broadway – 30th Anniversary at the Clark Center, 487 Fair Oaks Dr, Arroyo Grande. From Annie to Phantom to Wicked, this fall-down funny, satirical roast of over 30 Broadway hits features outrageous costumes, silly spoofs of classic songs, and madcap impressions by a stellar cast! Whether you are a seasoned theatre-goer or new to it all, the Tony Award winning Forbidden Broadway is your one-stop ticket to non-stop laughs. Cost: $35-47. Contact: 489-9444 or http://clarkcenter.org. JAN 27-FEB 19 (7:30 pm FRI & SAT, 3:00 pm SUN): Almost, Maine at Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St, Cambria. Jill Turnbow directs a romantic comedy by John Cariani. A gala event takes place on JAN 28. Tickets: $20-25. Contact: 927-5951. FRI JAN 27-SUN JAN 29 & THU FEB

SAT FEB 4 8:00 am: YMCA Super Fun Run 10K & 5K & Kids’ Run at War Memorial Stadium, 24th St. and Vine St, Paso Robles. Get in the Super Bowl swing of things! Super Fun Run featuring a challenging but very scenic 10K and 5K, and a fun run for the kids around the football field. 10K and 5K are run on a hilly course on the west side of Paso Robles with mostly paved streets. Register: In Person: Centennial Park Gym Office, Paso Robles; Mail entry form to: YMCA 600 Nickerson Dr, Paso Robles, CA 93446; Online: www.Active. com. Contact: 543-8235 or http://www. sloymca.org. SAT FEB 4 8:00 am-4:00 pm: Genealogy NOW! Growing Your Family Tree at SLO County Veteran’s Hall, 801 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. Jump-start your genealogy at this all-day seminar featuring nationally-acclaimed author and speaker Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, CGL, and Ron Arons, and Apryl Cox. A variety of classes will enhance your genealogical sleuthing skills and add a few branches to your family tree! Exhibits, vendors, refreshments, freebies and giveaways. $40 Members / $50 Non-members. Contact: 489-5457. SAT FEB 4 9:00-10:00 am: Ice Cream for Breakfast Day at Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab, 114 West Branch St, Arroyo Grande. In celebration of this historic International Day, Doc Burnstein’s will serve FREE Ice Cream in Arroyo Grande AND during the Grand Opening of Doc Burnstein’s Parlor in Old Town Orcutt. Pajama Party starts at 9:00 am, but come early to save a spot! Family friendly PJs encouraged. Contact: 474-4068. SAT FEB 4 10:00 am-2:00 pm: Sukha Wellness Center’s 1st Annual Birth and Baby Fair at Sukha Wellness Center, 6615 Bay Laurel Pl, San Luis Obispo. This free event will present a variety of wellness information beneficial to pregnant women and new parents. Meet local birth professionals and learn about important local resources and non-profit organizations that provide services for pre-natal and postnatal care and recovery. Contact: 801-8088. SAT FEB 4 6:00-8:30 pm: Annual Father Daughter Dance-A Night in Paris at Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall, 680 Bello St, Pismo Beach. This special event is designed just for young ladies ages 3 to 18 and the special man in their lives… Dad! Enjoy a semi-formal evening of dancing and fun. Pre-register by JAN 31. Price: $25/couple & $10/each add’l child. Contact: 773-7063 or www.pismobeach. org. SAT FEB 4 at 8:00 pm: ‘A Night at the Mission’ - Cal Poly Chamber Ensembles Concert at Mission San Luis Obispo de

Take the family to local high school sports events! Encourage fitness and sportsmanship in your children and show support for our local athletes.
Find scheduled events and sports standings for any high school at:

High School Sports

www.highschoolsports.net

Tolosa, 751 Palm St, SLO. Beautiful music performed by chamber ensembles: Brass Choir, Brass Quintets, Clarinet Ensemble, Flute Choir, Saxophone Quartets, String Quartets, and Woodwind Quintets. Tickets: $10 general, $8 seniors and students. Contact: 756-2787. MON FEB 6 6:00-10:00 pm: Women’s Empowerment & Self-Defense at Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall, 680 Bello St, Pismo Beach. This class will focus on increased awareness, assertiveness, and self-defense skills in order to prevent and avoid sexual assault. Participants will have a better understanding of how to use their own strength in adverse situations. Call SARP at 5458888 to reserve a space and request a liability waiver. Price: $10 donation for materials. Contact: 773-7063. MON FEB 6 at 6:30 pm: “What’s All That Jazz About...For Kids!” Free Educational Presentation at Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St, Santa Maria. Through a carefully balanced combination of live performance, story telling, and listening games using examples of classic recordings from jazz icons including Miles Davis and John Coltrane, award-winning saxophonist Shenole Latimer educates children about how to follow along with jazz tunes. Contact: 925-0994. THU FEB 9 2:00-4:00 pm: Calling All Chocoholics! Cooking Class at the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden’s Oak Glen Pavilion, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, SLO. Make a date with Chef Brenda Hock and immerse yourself in delicious Valentine treats including chocolate soup, chocolate whipped cream meringue baskets, triple chocolate chip espresso cookies, and “have it your way chocolate truffles.” $25 for Garden members, $30 for non-members; bring 3 friends and admission is ½ off! Register early. Contact: www.slobg.org or 5411400 x 300. THU FEB 9 7:30 pm: Celtic Nights: Journey Of Hope at Cohan Center, PAC, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. This spectacular performance weaves together thundering dance with the

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PETS OF THE MONTH Available for Immediate Adoption!

HOLLY
2 year old Female Black Short Hair w/ Gold Eyes

7.5 year old Female Boston Terrier Mix

SHELBY

Spayed, Vaccinated, Microchipped, Vaccinated, Spayed Microchipped, Leash & House Trained & Litter Box Trained Adoption Fee Sponsored Curious & Vocal, Friendly Great w/ kids & dogs (not cats)! Independent & Affectionate!

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way to the “Mother of all Planets,” Jupiter. Learn about spacecraft design and science missions and view their thundering launches from Florida’s Cape Canaveral. Learn about how we communicate with the spacecraft and about one very special young girl who named the Curiosity spacecraft. Experience space exploration at its finest. There will be loud rocket launch sounds and some bold classical music! The program is designed for ages 11 to adult. Space is limited. Sign-ups are recommended. Contact: 461-6162. SAT FEB 11 at 6:00 pm: Bleeding Hearts Valentine’s Bash at Veterans’ Memorial Community Center, Santa Maria. Concert, art show, vendor show, raffle, performances by Poetic Justice Project artists! Tickets: $10-15. Contact: 6195477. SAT FEB 11 at 8:00 pm: My Funny Valentine Comedy Event at Atascadero Lake Pavilion, 9315 Pismo Ave, Atascadero. Five comedians on one SWEET night. Join us for a stand out stand-up event. Don’t miss this Valentines comedy show starring comedians as seen on the Late Late show, Comedy Central and Showtime. Beer, wine, soft drinks, desserts and appetizers available for purchase. Reserved seating. $30 advanced purchase, $35 at the Door. Contact: 712.0400 or www.thebiglaugh.net. SUN FEB 12 3:00-5:00 pm: San Luis Obispo Wind Orchestra Chamber Concert at the Cambria Community Presbyterian Church, 2250 Yorkshire Dr, Cambria. Enjoy the sound of traditional and contemporary music written for chamber wind ensembles. Featured is music for woodwind quintet, clarinet choir, and brass choir, performed in a relaxed and personal environment. Donation: $15. Contact: 235-5004. WED FEB 15 at 7:30 pm: Frank Abagnale: Catch Me If You Can in the Performing Arts Center’s Cohan Center, Cal Poly SLO. Frank W. Abagnale is one of the world’s most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement, and secure documents. For over 30 years, he has consulted and worked with hundreds of financial institutions, corporations, and government agencies around the world – most notably, the FBI. Abagnale’s rare blend of knowledge and expertise began more than 40 years ago when he was known as one of the world’s most famous con men. This was depicted most graphically in his best-selling book “Catch Me If You Can,” and the film directed by Steven Spielberg. Tickets: $16-36. Contact: 756-2787 or www. calpolyarts.org. THU FEB 16-SUN MAR 11 (times vary):

Little Women, The Broadway Musical at Marian Theatre, 800 S College, Santa Maria. When people discover Passion, they’ve come upon something rare. Brimming with all the life of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel Little Women, the Broadway Musical follows the adventures of the four March daughters as they grow up in Civil War America. Contact: 922-8313 or http://www.pcpa. org. SAT FEB 18 2:00 & 7:00 pm: Young Frankenstein at Cohan Center, PAC, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. The classic Mel Brooks movie is alive and heading our way for a monster-ously good time! Don’t miss this spectacular award-winning musical. Tickets: $42-71. Contact: 756-2787 or http://pacslo.org. FRI FEB 24 at 7:30 pm: Central Coast Jazz Festival Concert at Cuesta College CPAC, Hwy 1, San Luis Obispo. This 29th annual festival features a famous artist performing with Cuesta groups, free clinics, and schools from all over California performing and competing. One of the word’s greatest jazz trombone players, Bob McChesney, and Cuesta Jazz Ensemble will kick off this year’s festival. Price: $7-10. Contact: 546-3198 or http://academic.cuesta. edu/performingarts.

Family Events
THU MAR 1-SAT MAR 3 (times vary): Friends of the Library Book Sale at SLO Veterans Memorial Bldg, 801 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. Approximately 8,000 audio-visual items, and 20,000 books will be available for purchase at the following times: THU 6:00–9:00 pm, FRI 10:00 am–5:00 pm, and SAT 9:00 am–2:00 pm. Books sold at $1 per inch. Admission: Free ($10 donation for THU preview). Contact: 544-3033. THU MAR 1 at 7:30 pm: Don’t Fence Me In at the Clark Center, 487 Fair Oaks Ave, Arroyo Grande. Enjoy songs, music, and poetry of the American West to explore the region’s celebrated musical and oral culture. Tickets: $36-43. Contact: 4899444 or http://clarkcenter.org. THU MAR 1 7:30 pm: Red Star Red Army Chorus And Dance Ensemble at Cohan Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. The consummate glory, tradition, and national pride of Russia are on dazzling display with the incomparable Red Star Red Army Chorus and Dance Ensemble. Tickets: $20-47. Contact: 756-2787 or http://pacslo.org.

lilting, plaintive sounds of rich Celtic heritage to tell a stirring tale. Tickets: $20-41. Contact: 756-2787 or http:// pacslo.org. FRI FEB 10 6:00-7:00 pm: Festival Mozaic’s WinterMezzo II at San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St, San Luis Obispo. What do we mean when we say music is ‘Romantic?’ And how do composers find inspiration to pull at the heart-strings? Join the Festival Mozaic musicians for a lively look behind the scenes of the works of Beethoven, Borodin and Schumann at Festival Mozaic’s WinterMezzo II weekend. Tickets: $22. Contact: 7813009. FRI FEB 10 6:00-8:00 pm: Date Night Cooking Class at Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall, 680 Bello St, Pismo Beach. Heat up the kitchen with some romance just in time for Valentine’s Day! You and your partner will turn the temperature up as you learn some fun new cooking techniques, with hands-on application as you prepare a variety of international gourmet recipes. Then, dine by candlelight as you sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Price: $85/couple, includes meal & supplies. Contact: 7737063. SAT FEB 11 at 9:00 am: Change the Status Quo Conference at Chumash Auditorium, 1 Grand Ave, Bldg 65, Room 205, San Luis Obispo. Change the Status Quo is designed to educate and network activists on multiple issues, bringing together people who share a passion for making a difference in their community and the world. The conference encourages participants to challenge stereotypes, demand solutions, and use education to make lasting changes. Price: $15 students, $25 non-students. Contact: 756-5834. SAT FEB 11 6:00-8:00 pm: Space Program at the Atascadero Library, Martin Polin Community Room, 6850 Moore Rd. Walter Reil will discuss two of NASA’s new missions in our solar system: the Mars Science Laboratory “Curiosity” lander on its way to our favorite “Red Planet,” and the Juno orbiter on its

Recurring Events & Resources
Registration is open for SUPERCHARGED SCIENCE CAMP in San Luis Obispo, MON-FRI JUN 25-29, 2012 9:00 am–2:00 pm. What are YOUR kids doing this summer? Enjoy a wild week of handson science! Open to kids ages 7-12 years. Blast rockets, build your own robots from junk, wire up homemade burglar alarms, shatter laser beams, zoom roller coasters, pilot your own airplane, discover black holes, and use chemistry to turn copper into silver and gold. Kids do real hands-on experiments in astronomy, aerodynamics, electromagnetism, robotics, engineering, chemistry, and physics and keep everything they build. Get 50% off using this discount code: CMP2012. Register early to reserve your spot: http://www.superchargedscience. com/camp. Every SAT 11:00 am-4:00 pm: ADOPT-APET events at Petco in Madonna Plaza Shopping Center, 271 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo. Cats and kittens are spayed or neutered, tested and vaccinated prior to adoption. A free vet examination is included. Cost: Adoption fees are $60 for one or $80 for two. Contact: 5499228 or http://felinenetwork.org. Los Osos Pet Lost & Found Headquarters connects people with their LOST pets and allows those who have FOUND a pet to locate the owner. If you are unable

SAT FEB 25-SUN MAR 11 (times vary): Once Upon A Mattress at Unity, 1490 Southwood Dr, San Luis Obispo. If you thought you knew the story of the Princess and the Pea, you are in for a surprise! Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the classic tale of royal courtship and come-uppance provides side-splitting shenanigans. You’ll never look at fairy tales quite the same way again! Tickets: $14-60. Contact: 5437529 or http://kelrikproductions.org. SAT FEB 25 6:00-9:00 pm: Nipomo High School Agriculture Friends Fundraiser Event at Edward Barn, 1095 Pomeroy Rd, Nipomo. Enjoy the 8th Annual Fundraiser supporting the Nipomo High School FFA Chapter and Agriculture Department including a wonderful Tritip BBQ dinner with a silent & live auction in the company of friends. Contact: 6197078 or 459-4297. SAT FEB 25 at 8:00 pm: Cal Poly Choirs Winter Concert - If Music Be the Food of Love at Performing Arts Center, Cal Poly, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. Works dedicated to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music will be presented by PolyPhonics, The University Singers, Student Soloists. Tickets: $13-15 general, $12-14 seniors, $8 students. Contact: 756-2787 or http://pacslo.org.

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Local Resources
to secure a found pet in your home, call 528-5611. Sponsored by Squeaks, Chirps & Bubbles Pet & Feed Store, 1030 Los Osos Valley Rd, Los Osos. If you found or lost a pet in Los Osos, call 528-5611 or 801-6640. Tree of Life at 7730 Morro Rd, Suite 106, Atascadero, is a non-profit organization helping women and families facing an unplanned pregnancy with free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, baby clothes and supplies, as well as medical referrals and other practical assistance. All services are free and completely confidential. Contact: 461-3405 or www.treeoflifepsc.com. Now-FEB 15 (ongoing): Pocket Media Film Festival accepting submissions! Cuesta’s Friends of the Library seek short, low resolution documentaries made with phones and other hand held devices on the theme of “community” for a book of the year program in honor of In the Neighborhood: The Search for Community on an American Street, One Sleepover at a Time by Peter Lovenheim. Submissions in 3 categories (youth, Cuesta, and general) due FEB 15 are eligible for $50 gift card prizes. Best overall wins an iPod touch. Email films to: cuestabook@gmail.com. Contact: 546-3100 or http://library.cuesta.edu. Every SAT 6:00-9:00 pm: Drum Circle at Spirits of Africa Gallery, 570 Higuera, Suite 150, San Luis Obispo. Open to all adults who want to relax, release and embrace the weekend through creative drumming expression. All levels of experience welcome. Bring your own drum or rent and/or purchase an authentic African Drum. Bring a chair if desired. Donation: $10. Contact: 5983212. Every WED at 4:30 pm: Read to Skipper the Dog at Los Osos Library, 2075 Palisades Ave. Skipper is a good listener. Contact: 528-1862 or http:// slolibrary.org. Every WED-FRI 12:00-5:00 pm & SAT 10:00 am-5:00 pm: Free expanded Electronic Waste Drop Off at Exploration Station, 867 Ramona Ave (behind Rabobank) in Grover Beach. Drop off any item with a cord (working or not), including all electronics and all small appliances. Not accepted: large household appliances, batteries, and light bulbs. DON’T TOSS IT--DONATE IT and help to E-RASE---EWASTE! Tax receipts can be provided and free pick-up for large TVs and loads of electronic waste. Contact: 473-1421 or www.explorationstation.org. Every WED 10:00 am-6:30 pm: North County Humane Society offers microchip clinics at 2300 Ramona Rd, Atascadero. Get your cat microchipped, so you’ll never have to worry about them getting lost. It’s the best $15 you will ever spend! Contact: www.slonchs. org. 2nd TUE every month 7:00-9:00 pm: SLO NightWriters offers educational speakers at The PG&E Education Center, 6588 Ontario Rd, San Luis Obispo. SLO NightWriters is the premier writing organization on the Central Coast. Contact: www.slonightwriters.org. 2nd WED every month 9:30-10:30 am: Free Classic Story Hour at SLO Classical Academy, 165 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. Free and open to the public. Story time for pre-school aged children on the campus of SLO Classical Academy in SLO. Come hear a story, participate in a craft and make some new friends! Contact: 548-8700. Every FRI 10:00-11:30 am: Postpartum Education for Parents (PEP) at One Consignment, 240 E HWY 246, #105, Buellton. Contact: 564-3888 or www. sbpep.org. AIKIDO FOR KIDS - Get Fit at Aikido of SLO, 209 Bonetti, SLO. Ongoing classes are for ages 4-11 (kids are broken up into two ages groups). Children learn how to be safe without hurting others. The learning environment is fun and knowledgeable teachers are friendly. Classes include safety techniques, games, tumbling, and cooperative interaction skills. Contact: http:// aikidoslo.com or 544-8866. La Clinica de Tolosa is a nonprofit children’s dental clinic in Paso Robles providing a full range of quality pediatric dental care for ages 1 to 12. It serves lowincome children throughout the county who are uninsured or covered by public insurance programs such as Medi-Cal. Contact: www.clinicadetolosa.org, or 238-5334. Every FRI 1:00-2:00 pm: Mommy and Me Little Swimmers in a warm water therapy pool at 1443 Cazadero St, SLO. Jack’s Helping Hand offers a parent & child class designed to engage children ages 2 to 8 with special needs in fun water activities that encourage physical and social development. Cost: $20 for 4 classes and scholarships are available. Join anytime! Taught by Kay Heaton, B.S.M.S, Kinesio-Therapist. Contact: 547-1914. Volunteer as a Good Neighbor! Make a difference in the life of an older adult or an adult with a disability. Once trained, volunteers choose the services they would like to contribute and schedule volunteer hours at their convenience. Training is scheduled monthly at Wilshire Community Services, 285 South St, Ste J, SLO. Contact: 547-7025 x 17. Volunteer at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art! Stop by at 1010 Broad St (west end of Mission Plaza) or email volunteer@sloma.org. 2nd MON every month 6:30-8:00 pm: Caregiver Support Group at Cayucos Community Church, Ocean Ave & S 3rd St. Free support group for caregivers and family members dealing with longterm illness, memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s. Contact: 458-7484. 1st SAT every month 9:00 am-12:00 pm: Elfin Forest Work Parties. Dress for wind, fog, or sun (layers work well) in long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and sturdy shoes. Meet at the north end of 15th St in Los Osos. Contact: 528-0392 or www.elfin-forest.org. 2nd SAT every month: Saturday at the Garden programs at San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden. Contact: 541-1400 or www.slobg.org. Every MON 10:00 am-2:00 pm: Remain Independent Despite Vision Loss at Santa Maria Terrace, 1405 E. Main St. New ways of doing daily tasks are taught by the Braille Institute, such as managing the home, traveling, and use of talking library books. Contact: 4621225. 2nd & 4th MON every month at 6:30 pm: MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meet at Pacific Christian Church, 3435 Santa Maria Way, Santa Maria. Childcare provided. Contact: 934-3491 or www. pacificchristian.net. Teen Wellness Program: TUE 3:006:00 pm & FRI 3:00-5:30 pm at Arroyo Grande EOC Health Services Clinic, 1152 E Grand Ave. Health services, including reproductive health services, in a safe environment with staff trained to screen, assess, and provide intervention. Appointment preferred. Contact: 4894026. 1st WED every month at 9:00 am: Community Action Partnership Senior Health Screening at First United Methodist Church, 275 N. Halcyon Rd, Arroyo Grande. Free and lowcost services for people 50 and older including blood pressure, pulse, weight, total cholesterol, screening for anemia, diabetes and fecal blood, nutritional counseling, and referrals. Contact: 4812692 or 788-0827. 1st WED every month at 12:00 pm: Disabled American Veterans luncheon meeting at Veterans Memorial Bldg, 313 W. Tunnell St, Santa Maria. Contact: 345-0402. Every WED 5:30-7:00 pm: Widowed Support Group at New Life Church, 990 James Way, Rm 14, Pismo Beach. Arrive 10 min early for 1st meeting. Offered by Hospice of SLO Co. Contact: 544-2266 or www.hospiceslo.org. 1st THU every month at 6:15 pm: Commission on the Status of Women meets at Coast National Bank, 500 Marsh St, San Luis Obispo. The Commission is an official advisory group to the SLO County Board of Supervisors to identify issues of concern to women that are not currently the focus of other advocacy or advisory organizations. Contact: 788-3406. Every TUE at 7:00 pm: Al-Anon Family Support Group at Luis OASIS Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave, Orcutt. Contact: 937-9750. 2nd SUN every month 1:00-3:00 pm: Free Reiki energy balancing and relaxation at Central Coast Yoga, 900 E Grand Ave, Arroyo Grande. 30 min sessions, no disrobing, 5 certified practitioners. Contact: 235-6283. 3rd WED every month at 7:00 pm: How to Survive Divorce seminar at the San Luis Obispo Women’s Community Center, 1124 Nipomo St, #D in SLO. Practical tips, pointers, and suggestions for handling family law issues. $10.00 donation requested for handout materials and book. Contact: 544-9313 to register. 4th TUE every month at 5:30 pm: Legal Clinic for Self-Represented Litigants at the San Luis Obispo County Courthouse Law Library, 1050 Monterey St in SLO, #125. SLO County Bar Assn Family Law Section & Women’s Community Center provide one-on-one legal advice for persons filing divorces w/o an attorney, and a document preparer to assist in completing court-required forms. Min. $40.00 donation. Limit: 12 participants. Contact: 544-9313. FRI-SUN 10:00 am - 4:00 pm: Coastal Discovery Center at W.R. Hearst State Beach in San Simeon. Southern gateway to Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary with free exhibits, videos, and live plankton display. Docent led “History of San Simeon Bay” walk 1st SUN each month at 11:00 am. Contact: 927-6575. Every MON 4:00-5:00 pm: Jack’s Yoga for Teens in San Luis Obispo Veterans Building, 801 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. Classes are free with Jack’s Helping Hand Scholarships, all abilities

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Local Resources
and special needs welcome, ages 1018. Classes are taught by certified yoga instructor Shoosh Crotzer. Contact: 5471914 or www.jackshelpinghand.org. Every MON 2:00-4:00 pm & WED 3:005:00 pm: Jacks’ Adaptive Toy Lending Library - Jack’s Helping Hand at Central Coast Gymnastics, 21 Zaca Lane, #100 in San Luis Obispo. Traditional and adaptive toys for children with all types of disabilities to check out. Inhome appointments also available. Cost-Free! Contact: 547-1914 or www. jackshelpinghand.org. Every THU 11:00 am-2:00 pm & SUN 1:004:00 pm: Katie’s Korner Adaptive Toy Lending Library (Jack’s Helping Hand) is at Paso Robles Children’s Museum, 623 13th St, Paso Robles. Traditional and adaptive toys for children with all types of disabilities free to check out. In-home appointments also available. Contact: 547-1914 or www.jackshelpinghand. org. Anam-Cre’ pottery studio has pottery classes for kids ages 6 and up after school and on weekends at 570 Higuera in SLO. Cost: $20. Contact: 896-6197 or http://anamcre.com. Divorce Support Group meets weekly at 1540 Marsh St. Suite 260 in SLO. Licensed Psychotherapist Ben ElfantRea leads the group. Contact: 903-2604 or www.searchforself.com. 1st MON every month at 6:00 pm: Free Infant-Child CPR Class at 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande. Contact: 481-6399 or www.5citiesswimschool.com. 1st THU every month 9:30-10:30 pm: Bike Happening at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa! After Farmers Market, enjoy pedaling with hundreds of bikers, or just watch. Different costume-decoration themes every month. Have fun and obey all traffic laws! Contact: http:/ bikehappening.org. Every WED 4:00-5:00 pm: FREE Yoga classes for cancer survivors at SLO Vets Hall, Monterey & Grand, San Luis Obispo. Mats provided. For any cancer survivor, at any stage. Spouses, family members and caregivers are also welcome at no cost. Contact: 772-3560. Mommies of North County is a group of mothers who gather weekly to play, learn, and meet new friends in many North County locations for: zoo days; park days; monthly crafts & moms night out; children’s museum; or play dates at member’s homes. Contact: meetup. com/mommiesofnorthcounty. Last TUE every month at 7:00 pm: The Birth and Baby Resource Network sponsors free education events at EcoBambino, 863 Monterey St, SLO. Contact: www.bbrn.org or 546-3755. Last THU every month 6:30 to 7:30 pm: Pet Bereavement Support Group at the North County Humane Society, 2300 Ramona Rd, Atascadero. Free service led by a bereavement counselor. Contact: 466-5403. Every SAT 11:00 am-3:00 pm: ADOPT A PET at Petco, 2051 Theater Dr, in Paso Robles. Cats are available for adoption through NCHS. Dogs are available through Short n’ Sweet Dog Rescue. Contact: 466-5403. For the Adventures With Nature and Mind Walk schedule from the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History, go to www.ccnha.org/naturewalks.html. Every FRI at 7:00 pm: Senior Ballroom Dancing at Madonna Inn. If you are a senior (single or attached) and like ballroom dancing, this is the place! Look left of the bandstand for a table sign “Senior Dancers.” Dance, chat and listen to good music. No fees; no dues; just fun! Contact: 489-5481 or dg17@ juno.com. Literacy Council for San Luis Obispo County has an ongoing and urgent need for volunteer tutors and offers free training in SLO. Contact: 541-4219 or www.sloliteracy.org. Become a volunteer tutor for adults learning to read, write, or speak English with Central Coast Literacy Council. No teaching experience or ability to speak a 2nd language required. Tutor training at Santa Maria Library on SAT FEB 25 & SAT MAR 3. Join a great group of volunteers, meet new friends and support your community! Contact: 9250951 x 837, cclcread@mypowerpipe. com or stop by the office at Santa Maria Library. Most WED & SAT (& some other days) at 8:45 am, Guided hikes along Pecho Coast Trail in Avila Beach. See the old Point San Luis Lighthouse (built in 1890), and enjoy harbor views. The trail is only open during these times. Hikers must be 9 years or older in good physical shape. Hikes last ~4 hours. SAT: one fast and one slower hike. Contact: 541-8735. 3rd SAT every month 9:30-11:30 am: Walk in El Moro Elfin Forest at north end of 15th St off Santa Ysabel in Los Osos. Guided walks through 90-acre nature preserve with pygmy trees, endangered plants, butterflies and birds. Stay on boardwalk and trails, and keep pets leashed. Contact: http:// losososbaywoodpark.org. Piedras Blancas Light Station Tours: TUE, THU & SAT. Meet escorts at 9:45 am at Piedras Blancas Motel, 1.5 miles north of the lighthouse. Adults $10, $5 for ages 6-17 and free for kids under 5. Contact: 927-7361. Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens offers many free services: Senior Connection - connecting callers with local resources; HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) one on one assistance for Medicare beneficiaries, advise and referrals for long term care options, and help with billing / appeals; Vial of Life magnetized containers with medical information; a Senior Resource Directory for SLO or SB counties, and much more. Contact: 9259554 or www.centralcoastseniors.org. San Luis Obispo Senior Center offers health screening, legal services, meals, exercise, bridge, bingo, and more at 1445 Santa Rosa St. Contact: 781-7306. San Luis Obispo ALPHA (Alpha Pregnancy Counseling & Support) is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, nonsectarian organization providing free pregnancy support, newborn assistance & education in SLO, Arroyo Grande, and Atascadero. Pregnancy Testing; Options Counseling; FollowUp Counseling; Support & Referrals re: Post-Partum Depression; Medical Care & Insurance; Agency Referrals; Rental Deposit Assistance; Maternity & Baby Clothes; Infant Supplies & Equipment; Workshops; Support Groups; and a Speaker’s Bureau. Contact: 541.3367 or www.sloalpha.org. Sexual Assault Recovery and Prevention (SARP) Center of San Luis Obispo County offers: Weekly Drop-In Support Group for Sexual Assault Survivors; 24 Hour Crisis Line; Advocacy and Accompaniment; Peer Counseling; Individual Clinical Counseling; Prevention & Education Programs; and Women’s Empowerment and Self Defense Workshops. Contact: 545-8888 or www.sarpcenter.org. Central Coast Astronomical Society plans a Dark Sky Star Party every month at Santa Margarita Lake KOA Campground at sunset. CCAS also sponsors special guest speakers and programs periodically. Event details and schedules, weather updates, and local resources can all be found at: www. centralcoastastronomy.org. Contact: aurora@centralcoastastronomy.org.

For Wildlife in Distress 805 543-WilD [9453]
Call Our HOtline:

Women’s Shelter
of San Luis Obispo County crisis line: 781-6400 business phone: 781-6401 email: info@wspslo.com www. womensshelterslo.org

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Ask Christina
lasting relationship is effortless and makes perfect sense, from I think I have finally met the how it looks to how it feels. “Love of My Life.” I have tried You experience the feeling of to feel this way about a couple total trust combined with love of people I dated in the past, but and friendship. Be thankful for it never felt real like this. With all your past encounters with this relationship, it’s like I just relationships, because they know. My question is: How do have helped you evolve into the you know for sure when it is the person you are now. You are a whole person who is ready to one? share your life with someone special. Craig Santa Barbara Dear Christina: Dear Craig: That is wonderful! Good for you! You will know the real thing when you find it, especially if you have experienced the faux real thing. I think that when a person is ready for the real thing… it comes to them, even when they least expect it. A real

Dear Christina:

Thank You & Best Wishes in Your
New Life!

date all the horrible things I feel about my ex-wife. I feel like she Dear Christina: should know about the situation I came from before we become I recently divorced and have involved. I also ask my date to begun to date. I really dislike talk about her past relationships. the whole process. The problem Do you think this is wrong? I am having is that after the first date, I call to make a second Kevin date and I get turned down with San Luis Obispo some polite excuse. On the first date, I usually end up telling my Dear Kevin: I do think that your problem is discussing your ex-wife. I certainly would not want to sit through a dinner listening to someone talk about their ex in a negative manner. Plus, it makes you sound as if you are holding on to a lot of anger and bitterness. I suggest that you take great interest in your future and discuss that on first dates. Also encourage your date to talk about her goals and interests.

the emblem of eternity; it confounds all notion of time; effaces all memory of a beginning, all fear of an end.
~ Germaine De Stael
Christina Zantman is a graduate of Cal Poly with a B.S. in Social Sciences. Christina served as President of the Board of Directors for United Cerebral Palsy in SLO and is an accomplished writer of children’s literature. You can reach her at christinazantman@yahoo.com. Christina is starting a new life in the bay area.

Love is

Arroyo Grande Seventh-Day Adventist Church

Seeking... Sharing...Serving ...
Saturday: 9:30am & 10:45am
240 Vernon St. in Arroyo Grande (805) 489-6622
www.arroyogrande.netadventist.org
Central Coast Family • February 2012 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 22

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David S. Vogel
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