michael f.

Michael F. | Maintenance

Californo's

Years of Industry Service: 18, off and on

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Michael grew up on and farm and even though he lives in the city now, "I'm a country boy at heart," he says. He still does "ranching stuff" and this summer, he built a tin barn. Michael met the owners of Californo's years ago. He was just a kid when he helped them save their horse, who had gotten its bridle caught up in tractor. Michael knew the names of area vets and helped contact them. For 18 years, he has worked at Californo's off and on, working in whatever position they need him in: bartending, serving, kitchen and valet. Now he's the maintenance supervisor. Michael is also a cross-country motorcycle rider. He likes to join up for New Belgium's bike and beer festival, Tour de Fat. This year's tour includes 13 cities from Nashville to Los Angeles.

  Make KC Better » A little bit more outdoorsy, more bike trails, camping, more things to do around lakes and ponds in the Kansas City area. 

josh s.

Josh S. | Server/Bartender et al.

Californos

Years of Industry Service: 9

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Josh's service industry career began as a cook at Pizza Shoppe. Now he's a daytime bartender/server at Californos, but he's not a strictly back-of-the-house or front-of-the-house person. His jobs are varied and he goes where he's needed, whether that's in the kitchen or at the table. Josh is also a drummer for Auternus, a structured, instrumental ambient rock band (not a jam band, although he gets asked that often). "Live music is such a challenge. Everyone wants to hear what's already been written, but musicians don't want to play that." With his long hair, tattoos and awesome grizzly beard, you'd think Josh was an outdoorsman. But you'd be very, very wrong. Josh says, "I like air conditioning and electricity. A LOT."

  Make KC Better » I wish Westport wasn't so dangerous at night.