David and Anita started Conservation Ambassadors, Inc. from a dream to teach the children of California about their connectedness with the natural world around them. They run a rescue center in Paso Robles and are experience animal trainers, who rehabilitate animals and often take them out on the road as they travel around the state from school to school, giving educational presentations to as many as 300 children at a time. On Saturday, David had his ideal audience—small and in a natural setting.

 

Among the audience was Amanda Hadley, 10, Blake Hadley, 8, and Scott Hadley, 4. When asked what they thought of the animals, Scott replied, a bit breathlessly, “Wasn’t that a cool alligator?”

 

For more information visit www.zootoyou.com.

 

 

Tales from the Tavern

Since its inception in 2003, “Tales from the Tavern” has been transforming the stage at the Maverick Saloon into the humble backdrop for one of the most sought after and unique musical experiences the area has to offer.

 

Established and up-and-coming artists from all over the country make a pilgrimage to Santa Ynez every spring and fall and bring with them fresh, inspiring and often gritty musical performances to new audiences.

 

The fall series opened with songwriter-musician Peter Case and with Jimmy Lafave, Austin Music Award winner for Best Singer-Songwriter. This week West Coast native Jesse DeNatale brought his harmonica, guitar and songs from his latest CD, “Soul Parade,” and was followed by Gretchen Peters, a Grammy-nominated songwriter who has written songs for the likes of Etta James, Faith Hill, Bonnie Raitt, and Neil Diamond.

 

Artists play to a full house in a setting that fosters both intimacy and energetic reciprocity. At a “Tales from the Tavern” concert one gets the sense that the audience is working as hard as the artist. The communication is palpable and often times unforgettable.

 

For concert schedule and information visit, www.talesfromthetavern.com