Atascadero News • May 09, 2024

eggy Joyce O’Mal -

ley, the wife of former Atascadero Mayor Tom O’Malley, passed away on April 9 after a two-year battle with cancer. Her family shared that during her final years, she devoted herself to her family, her children, and creating cherished memories with her eight grandchildren.

Peggy and Tom shared 48 years of marriage. She was a true Atascadero native, born at Atascadero Hospital and graduating from Atascadero High School. Throughout her youth, she actively participated in various activities such as Pioneer Girls at Atascadero Gospel Chapel, band, and the flag team, all while demonstrating her creativity in crafting homecoming floats. Peggy furthered her education at Cuesta College and Cal Poly, maintaining ties to the community by attending various local Atascadero churches over the years.

During her professional career, Peggy served as an educator within the Atascadero Unified School District for 25 years. She taught at several school sites, including Carrisa Plains, Creston Elementary School, Santa Rosa Elementary School, and, ultimately, Atascadero Middle School. Renowned for her fervor for literature and her dedication to helping students uncover their true talents, Peggy left an indelible mark on countless young lives.

Peggy and Tom united their passions to establish the Portola Inn, a venture they pursued together with joy. Their shared vision of cultivating a beautiful property for weddings and celebrations reflected their deep connection and commitment to each other and their community.

School board approves keeping AUSD meeting recordings on YouTube for 90 days

ATASCADERO—The

Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD) Board of Trustees met for its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, May 7, at 7 p.m. At the meeting, seven parents from within the district addressed the board during Oral Communications from the Public on concerns with class sizes within AUSD, which has been an ongoing discussion.

ATASCADERO—The streets around Atascadero’s famous Sunken Gardens were lined with delicious tamales, long lines, and smiling faces for the eighth annual Tamale Festival. The festival took place on Saturday, May 4, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. But the fun didn’t stop there. The festival and Cinco de Mayo weekend officially kicked off on Friday, May 3, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and concluded with a fireworks show.

“We are really starting to work on Tamale Festival Weekend, making it really a Friday/ Saturday thing,” said Director of Community Services and Promotions Terrie Banish. “That not only helps people who want to sell tamales and sell all of the thousands that they brought but also [helps] our hotels and tourism. Then for our community, it’s kind of like Friday night is locals night.”

This year, around 30 tamale vendors came out for Friday night to get a head start on selling their yummy tamales of all kinds early, but it was just a small glimpse of what was to come on Saturday.

“There was like 150 vendors. That’s a lot more than in the past,” added Banish.

Last year, there were closer to 100 vendors filling the Sunken Gardens, which shows that the festival is picking up speed. In fact, it brings people in from all over the Central

Coast and beyond. Cambria resident Maureen Fox was at the Tamale Fest for the first time this year, and it was her love of tamales themselves that brought her to Atascadero.

“I love tamales. I used to live down in San Diego. We used to go to a [tamale] fest in Escondido,” stated Fox.

In fact, one of the tamale vendors was one of her favorites at the Escondido festival. She didn’t know they would be in Atascadero, but said it was a pleasant surprise. Of course,

there’s also lots of local vendors as well.

“It’s become a staple of our city, and it definitely gets all of the merchants out,” Banish said.

“All of your Mexican restaurants, Mexican cuisine that we have. A lot of local restaurants are participating.”

It isn’t just about the tamales at the festival; on both Friday and Saturday, entertainment lined the streets. The 90’s Babiez performed on Friday night before the fireworks, and Saturday boasted a full lineup. The Famous Dancing Horses and ranchero artist Manuel Enrique and his horse were there. Mariachi Voces Tapatias, La Marcha Sound, and Mexicanisimo Mariachi Band all took to the stage. Paso A Pasito Dance Group and Paso Ballet Folklorico danced in front of City Hall. And the Steppin’ Out Band, Brass Mash Band, and Dante Marsh & The Vibe Setters also performed.

Just like in past years, a group of esteemed members of the community taste-tested both

The group was given a total of 20 minutes to talk on the issue of class size. One mother, Tara Walker, who has also been in education for 14 years and has been a counselor at Cayucos Elementary for the last two years, compared the differences between AUSD and Cayucos.

“It’s mind-blowing, the type of disparities there are,” she stated. “For example, at Cayucos, there are 23 students and a teacher’s aide from 8:30 to 1:30.”

She went on to say that her child is in a classroom with 32 students, and as far as she can tell, there is no teacher’s aide for a class of that size.

Parents also stated how their children don’t always feel challenged, don’t get individualized attention, and that some students are sometimes intimidated to speak up in such large AUSD classrooms. AUSD currently has a 32 students to one teacher ratio. Though class sizes have been limited to a 26 students to one teacher in kindergarten in the district.

At the start of his Superintendent’s Report, Tom Butler replied to the parent’s comments on class size.

“Right now, I can share

NORTH COUNTY —

The community will have a chance to see and give feedback on a Central Coast-made film this month. On Thursday, May 23, Park Cinemas in Paso

Robles will be the host to the second screening of “Hidden Creek,” which tells the story of an elderly rancher and his battle with dementia.

The screenplay was written by Cambria psychologist and writer Steve Brody, who was inspired to write the screenplay for “Hidden Creek” after his mother’s own battle with dementia. Many of Brody’s patients struggle with

traditional and gourmet tamales, and the winners of the Best Tamale Contest were then announced. This year, the award for Best Overall Tamale went to Award Winning Tamales.

This year’s traditional winners were Award Winning Tamales in first, Super Tamales in second, and La Luz del Mundo from Paso Robles in third.

Gourmet tamale winners were La Luz del Mundo from Visalia in first, La Luz del Mundo from Oxnard in second, and Beth’s Tamales in third.

AJ Fragoso and Justin Turner won first and second place in the 12 and over Tamale Eating Contest, while Roman Leon and Gabby Castaneda came in first and second in the 11 and under category.

The contests concluded with the adorable chihuahua and pet costume contest. First place and Best Overall went to Phoebe and owner Vikky Mullin. Second and Best Costume went to Maude and owner Ryan Duclos. Third and Best Lookalike went to Pepper and owner Liam Shutt. An Honorable Mention went out to Gidget and owner Carla Garcia.

Friday night’s festivities were also held in conjunction with the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce’s Sip and Shop, where participants could buy tickets for wine pours to drink while shopping at local merchants. Over 400 tickets were sold for the evening. “I love all of the energy from the community,” said Kim Wybenga, the workforce development manager for the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. “Everybody’s just having such a great time. Families are out together. It’s awesome.”

The ninth annual Tamale Festival will be back on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, 2025. For more information on the festival, go to atascaderotamalefest.com.

dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

“There are a lot of people out there that either are going through this, have gone through this, will be going through this, and the family dynamic is real common,” Brody explained to Atascadero News

After seeing one of their smaller projects, Brody reached out to two local graduates of Coast Union High School in Cambria, Julian Mercado and Darien Jewel, to produce the film. The two have now graduated from film school and are working together in Los Angeles with their independent film production company Slabtown Studios — the name a calling card for what Cambria was once called.

Avila, the director and producer for “Hidden Creek,” said they were ready to get straight to work when Brody approached them to produce the film. This being their biggest project yet, he said they first worked to update the script, which was written about 10 years prior.

“Something we grasp to and stuck to throughout the processes was the themes of family as well,” Avila said. “I think we as a company and as just filmmakers, we want to tell stories about family and just love and supporting each other.”

Seeing his words come to life on film was exciting for Brody.

“They’re [Avila and Jewel] a very competent young director-and-producer team. I was impressed with them as they made the movie,” said Brody.

“Hidden Creek” tells the story

of Jimmy, an elderly rancher who fears he might be losing his mind and suspects his son and daughter of furthering his dementia so they can sell the ranch out from under him. However, the story did not originally surround the story of a rancher until a location for the film was chosen.

A friend of Brody’s, Gloria Fiscalini, offered her family’s generational ranch as a filming location, inspiring the ranching and sustainability tie-in to the film.

“He [Jimmy] has a real loyalty and love of the land. Doesn’t want to see it carved up,” explained Brody of his main character and the secondary theme of the film — land preservation.

Jewel, who is director and producer of the film and partner in Slabtown Studios, said from start to finish the making of the film was a journey to narrow down the theme of the film. After talking to Fiscalini and securing the film location, everything clicked. The film would then also reflect the struggles farmers and ranchers face in today’s work to keep ahold of their land.

“And just preserving the legacy of the community. That’s when it struck with us that the film is about community, just in the same way that Slabtown is about honoring the community that we came from,” explained Jewel.

The film had its first screening at Hearst Castle earlier this year, where it debuted in front of a soldout theater of over 400 people. We should also mention Steve Hearst’s support as an executive producer and investor was instrumental in

some numbers, and this is just to give you information because I thought your presentation was excellent,” stated Butler.

Butler reported on the number of students back in January of this year and re-shared those numbers with the trustee board and the community. Current student-to-teacher numbers are as follows:

• Transitional Kindergarten = 19.3

• Kindergarten = 24.2

• First through Third Grade = 28.1

“However, you’re right. There are classes with 32 in some of those bands. There are classes that are higher, and there are classes that are also lower,” Butler said. “I think your

“Hidden Creek’s” production.

“If it wasn’t for the support of the community and the support of a lot of the locals, I don’t think we would’ve managed to do it,” said Jewel.

In the screening’s audience was Alzheimer’s Association CA Central Coast Chapter Program and Education Manager Laura DeLoye.

After watching the film, DeLoye had an idea: “I just suggested that it would be a great pairing to have some outreach awareness in our community about supports for families, like what is being portrayed in the movie, that we have some things going on here.”

DeLoye connected with Barry Fisher of Blaze ‘N Bear Insurance Services in Paso Robles, who also has a show in KPRL. Together, they found a way to bring the film to Paso Robles as a second screening. The screening gives the Alzheimer’s Association an outlet for education and spreading the word of different resources available in the area for those suffering from the disease. Soon, DeLoye explained, everything snowballed from there.

The film has become a collaboration between individuals with deep connections to Cambria and, furthermore, brought together organizations across the Central Coast, including the Alzheimer’s Association CA Central Coast Chapter, CAPSLO Adult Day Center, and the Cattlemen’s Association of SLO County Ag Education.

Paso Robles is home to one of the only adult day centers in the county.

effort is to be applauded. I like the teamwork approach.”

Butler continued that the parents and the district will have to work together to make it happen. He also stated that AUSD receives less funding than schools like Cayucos and is actually one of the lowest-funded districts in the county. He suggested that the concerned community reach out to state representatives about the topic and the funding needed to resolve it.

Tyler Bennett, a parent of students at Atascadero High School (AHS), also spoke to the board with questions about the opening of the AHS pool. He started by expressing gratitude to the board for approving the new pool before expressing some frustrations brought on by the pool’s soft opening on Wednesday, May 8, but not knowing after

LETTER POLICY

The Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo (CAPSLO) Adult Day Center offers adult day care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and respite for their family caregivers.

Given the films theme of ranching, DeLoye and her team wanted to find an organization that would help bring the ranching community into the fold.

“So the Cattleman’s Association came in very quickly into our conversation as well to support this type of what has become a fundraiser and an awareness piece,” explained DeLoye.

The second screening at Park Cinemas has already nearly sold out, raising over $10,000 for the nonprofits.

“What we really wanted to do with the film, was kind of get more exposure towards dementia and towards these kinds of struggles that the family was going through,” explained Jewel. “Because as we were in development and pre-production, a friend of mine’s family was going through the exact same struggle with a grandmother who was passing away and then kind of the suffering from dementia and the family politics around that. We wanted to shed a light on that kind of struggle with this project”

The test screening is Thursday, May 23, at 6 p.m. at Park Cinemas in Paso Robles. This screening allows viewers to see the film and suggest changes they may like to see before its distribution.

“I’m hoping people walk away with a sense of the normal to be

that when students will be able to use the pool for practices.

“Any person that you ask about the pool, no one knows when it’s going to open, but yet we’ve had water in that pool for several weeks now,” stated Bennett.

Butler stated that the district still needs to bring the coaching staff in to show them moving parts and make sure they understand the pool. Once that is done, AHS will be ready to start scheduling practices for both high school and middle school aquatics. Though the exact time when practices will start taking place was not defined.

The topic of how long the district should keep AUSD Board of Trustees meeting recordings up on its YouTube channel was back again this week. The trustees were

prepared for the different points of view that emerge when you have somebody that in the family that goes through some form of dementia and hopefully they learn a few things from the film that there’s a sensitivity to that, that they walk away with, with an increased love of the land,” says Brody of his screenplay come to life.

Brody exclusively told Atascadero News of another screenplay he has written that Slabtown Studios will be bringing to the big screen. Inspired by his father’s right to die in a time when it wasn’t legal in California, “Final Decision” is currently in pre-production works.

“It’s about an anxious old man who has only a few months to live, which was my dad,” says Brody. “He had a diagnosis of late stage pancreatic cancer and basically there was nothing they could do except, you know, make him comfortable.”

The movie trailer for “Hidden Creek” can be viewed at hiddencreekmovie.com and tickets are available at parkcinemas.com

CAPSLO is the event’s sponsor and all donations and sponsorships will be divided equally among the local nonprofit organizations including the Alzheimer’s Association CA Central Coast Chapter, CAPSLO Adult Day Center, and Cattlemen’s Association of SLO County Ag Education.

To donate, visit capslo.org/donation-adc/ noting in the comment box at the bottom: Hidden Creek Fundraiser or write a check to CAPSLO with Hidden Creek Fundraiser in the memo line.

presented with the option of keeping the videos live for 90 days instead of the current 30.

After deliberation it was decided that the videos will be kept live for 90 days before being deleted over the next six months. After six months, the item will be reevaluated after data is collected as to if keeping the videos live longer has an impact on how many people are able to view them.

“I would like to make a motion to approve 12.4 as recommended by our administration for 90 days with a six-month review,” stated trustee Corinne Kuhnle.

The motion passed unanimously.

The next regularly scheduled AUSD Board of Trustees meeting will take place Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m.

GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

Pollinators drive home garden selections

Producers and seed companies report steady supply and demand after recovering from gardening boom

CALIFORNIA — With plant nurseries germinating seeds for springtime garden transplants, producers and seed companies report steady supply and demand after recovering from a pandemic-time gardening boom that depleted seed inventory for some varieties.

During the pandemic, “We all got a lot more customers really fast, and there were seed shortages because no one was prepared for it,” said Renee Shepherd, founder of Renee’s Garden, a garden seed company based in Santa Cruz County. “I would say that that is behind us now, and most mail-order packet companies are much more well stocked.”

Steve Wiley, general manager and chief operating officer at American Takii, a Monterey County subsidiary of a Japanese seed company that serves commercial agriculture and home gardeners, said the popularity of gardening during the pandemic helped the company compensate for a dip in sales to commercial growers.

“Now it has shifted back to more of the commercial growers, but the home garden market does remain quite strong,” Wiley said.

Seed producers and suppliers said many of the people who started gardening within the past few years stuck with the hobby after COVID-related stay-at-home orders were lifted.

“We haven’t seemed to have lost a lot of the customers who we gained during the pandemic,” Shepherd said. “It’s just that the rapid growth rate has diminished to what it is in most years.”

This year, many home gardeners are opting to grow plants that bring environmental benefits such as water conservation or pollinator habitat. While vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers remain popular, suppliers said they have seen rising demand for flowers.

“Home gardeners are looking at how they can make their gardens more welcoming to both bees and other pollinating insects and birds, and just generally support wildlife,” said Shepherd, who is a director of the Home Garden Seed Association. “We’re seeing flowers make a little bit of a comeback.”

Wiley said he has also observed increased demand for flowers as gardeners gain more appreciation for the role pollinators play in cultivating a productive garden.

“If you don’t have a few bees visiting your flowers, your melons won’t get pollinated and may not make a crop,” he said. “They’re good for the overall environment, and they provide benefits for other plant species, be they decorative or food crops.”

Finding habitat in residential gardens can also make a difference for California’s roughly 1,600 bee species, many of which are threatened or endangered.

“The good news is that we don’t need to create huge national parks to protect these pollinators,” said Julia Michaels, restoration ecologist at Hedgerow Farms, a native seed farm in Yolo

County. “You can really take a bite out of this problem just in your own garden.”

For decades, Hedgerow Farms has specialized in growing large quantities of native grass and wildflower seed for land restoration projects. Last year, the farm began selling retail seed for home gardens. With its focus on habitat restoration, the farm produces a unique range of seeds that meet the demands of a growing number of gardeners.

“We were blown away by the amount of interest” in seeds of native grasses and wildflowers, Michaels said, which Hedgerow Farms sells through a partnership with the online seed packet company Nature’s Seed. She said the farm’s success in the home garden sector could inform future cropping decisions as gardeners drive demand for certain species.

Recent favorites among home gardeners have been wildflowers such as lupine, clarkias and California hibiscus.

Funding offered by some cities to incentivize homeowners to replace traditional grass lawns with drought-resistant plants has helped drive sales, Michaels said, especially of species such as slender sedge, a native grass

favored for landscaping.

While it might once have been fashionable to have a gorgeous lawn, Michaels said “the new status symbol” may be to have a drought-resistant garden with pollinator habitat.

“People are thinking about what they can contribute to the world through their individual gardens and feeling more empowered to make a difference,” she said.

California seed producers such as Hedgerow Farms and American Takii, which grows its own vegetables for seed in the Salinas Valley, reported favorable growing conditions so far this year.

Due to increased production costs, “we’ve seen a little bit of a contraction of acreage of most crops,” Wiley of American Takii said. Like many seed companies, Takii breeds vegetables and flowers for seed in North America, Europe and Asia.

When it comes to vegetables, gardeners continue to prefer varieties with short growing seasons such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower, all of which reach maturity within 90 days, Wiley said.

“We have very good onion seeds,” he said, “but we don’t sell a lot into the home garden market because the typical onion has to be in the ground almost half a year.”

Shepherd of Renee’s Garden noted a recent preference for vegetables such as lettuce, cucumbers and dwarf tomatoes that can be grown in small containers on a deck or patio. “People want to find tomatoes that don’t grow 6 feet,” she said. Home gardening may be a small niche within agriculture, but when it comes to consumer preferences, “I think we are a good bellwether of what’s going on,” Shepherd said. “Home gardeners are people who go to the supermarket, so you want to keep track of what is popular and what people are looking for.”

Judging by this year’s seed orders, she said, grocery stores may be wise to stock up on chili peppers and Asian vegetables such as gai lan and bok choy.

“International trends are strong,” Shepherd said. “In other words, bringing the world into your garden.”

Incumbent SLO mayor declares candidacy for reelection

The campaign is set to officially launch at the end of May

SAN LUIS OBISPO —

Erica A. Stewart, the current mayor of San Luis Obispo, announced her candidacy for reelection. The campaign is set

to officially launch at the end of May with a public event on the steps of City Hall. A graduate of Cal Poly, Stewart has long been a fixture in the San Luis Obispo community.

Beyond her mayoral duties, she teaches public speaking at Cal Poly’s College of Liberal Arts. Stewart also co-owns Albert’s Florist.

Stewart’s career has spanned

across various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality, giving her a broad perspective on business and community needs. Additionally, she manages a small wholesale bakery.

Stewart participates actively in regional and statewide initiatives that benefit the county and beyond. With her husband, Shay, Erica has deepened her

roots in the area through volunteer work and philanthropy, contributing to various local and regional projects that aim to enhance community well-being and working to help those most vulnerable in the community.

Her tenure as mayor has been marked by her dedication to inclusivity and collaboration. Stewart has consistently proven her ability to unite diverse

groups and foster dialogue for the betterment of all San Luis Obispo residents. Her campaign looks forward to building on these achievements to ensure a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable future for all in the city.

For more details on Mayor Stewart’s campaign and her platform, follow her social media @VoteEricaAStewart on Facebook and Instagram.

Nipomo man sentenced for second-degree murder and DUI

The crimes occurred in the Avila Beach area the  afternoon of Aug. 6, 2021

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

— Nipomo resident Patrick Wayne McDuffee Jr., 34, has been sentenced to nine years plus 15 years to life in state prison for his guilty plea to the second-degree murder of 72-year-old Glenn Howard Owens and to driving under the influence of drugs causing injury.

The defendant also admitted that he personally inflicted great bodily injury on Susan Margaret Owens in the collision and that he had suffered a prior conviction for driving under the influence of drugs causing great bodily injury in 2010, a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law.

The crimes occurred in the Avila Beach area the  afternoon of Aug. 6, 2021, when McDuffee failed to make a turn on San Luis Bay Drive.  McDuffee crashed his Ford F-250 pickup head-on with a Mercedes Sprinter van driven by Glenn Owens. Susan Owens, Glenn’s wife, was seated in the front passenger seat of the van. Glenn was killed in the collision, and Susan was seriously injured.

McDuffee was determined to have been under the influence of multiple prescription drugs at the time of the collision.

The killing of Glenn Owens was prosecuted as second-degree murder based on McDuffee’s four prior DUI convictions, two of which were felonies, including an incident in 2010 where he nearly killed another motorist in a rear-end crash.

Under California law, a fatal collision may be prosecuted as second-degree murder where the evidence establishes the offender was aware that their manner of driving was likely to result in serious injury or death and, with that knowledge, drove with conscious disregard for the safety of others.

The evidence in this case established that McDuffee had completed an intensive 18-month DUI program where he received education on the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

Additionally, in each of his four prior DUI convictions, he was provided the following warning by the court:

“You are hereby advised that being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, impairs your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Therefore, it is extremely dangerous to human life to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both. If you continue to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, and, as a result of that driving, someone is killed, you can be charged with murder.”

At the sentencing hearing, nine family members and a friend of 40 years provided statements to the court describing Glenn Owens as a loving father, husband, and friend who was a Naval Vietnam veteran, outdoorsman, Master Gardener, Big Brother of America, mentor to many, and a remarkably disciplined man with a bright smile.

Susan Owens described to the court her first “blind date” with Glenn 47 years prior and how she and Glenn had celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary just two days before the collision.

Kelly Davalos, Glenn and Susan’s daughter, described specific cherished memories with her father and went on to describe in stark concrete terms the anguish of losing him and the life-changing injuries suffered by her mother, Susan.

She described poignantly, “I remember lowering the American flag that evening — the way you had raised it Every. Single. Day. — because you weren’t there to do it.”

Alejandro Davalos, Glenn and Susan’s son-inlaw, provided insight on Glenn: “Mr. Owens, as I called him, was not just a figure in my life; he was a guiding light, a pillar of strength, and

a source of inspiration … He was more than a father-in law to me; he was a mentor, a role model, and a friend … His legacy will continue to live in our hearts, and his influence will continue to guide me as I strive to live a life that honors his memory.”

The case was investigated by the San Luis Obispo Area California Highway Patrol with the assistance of Sr. Investigators Matt Aanerud and Herminio Rodriguez of the District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Eric Dobroth and Deputy District Attorney Kristin Barnard.

PASO ROBLES

Left turn lane at Airport Road and Highway 46 intersection permanently closed Motorists traveling through the Airport Road and Highway 46 intersection are now experiencing a significant change in traffic patterns as the left turn lane from Airport Road to Eastbound 46 was permanently closed starting on Tuesday, May 7.

This infrastructure improvement initiative aims to enhance safety and efficiency at the intersection. Road construction activities will occur overnight, with specific hours to be determined. During construction, drivers should anticipate delays and exercise caution, as flaggers will be onsite to assist with traffic management.

With the closure of the left turn lane, motorists are advised to plan alternate routes when traveling from Airport Road to 46 East. Recommended alternate routes include Dry Creek to Jardine or Union to Golden Hill. Those heading to the Central Valley can also take Airport Road to Estrella Road to the Highway 46 East onramp near Whitley Gardens.

The construction project is expected to last approximately one week.

Background for removing the left turn lane:

• The closure of the left out at Airport Road is a condition of approval for three projects near the airport.

• Daou Winery, Treana Winery, and Stravinsky Development Group (the applicants) have all approved projects for wine storage and shipping (two also produce wine).

• The traffic studies for the projects identified semi-truck left-turning movements as a significant safety issue.

• All three increase semi-truck traffic on Airport Road and increase safety concerns with semi-trucks making left turns onto SR46/Airport Road. The environmental document identified the closure of the left turns as the most appropriate mitigation.

• The city studied a signal at this intersection, and there are issues with turning movement hazards, sight distance, and high speeds which do not meet Caltrans standards for signal installation.

Caltrans will therefore not allow a signal at this intersection.

• Caltrans requested that the left out onto 46 East as part of the project traffic mitigations, be closed to eliminate the safety concerns with left-turning vehicles. Caltrans requested the mitigation to enable Airport Road/SR46 intersection to work more effectively and to address safety issues with left turns.

• The applicants have approval from Caltrans to install an island and rightturn channelization.

This is the first step in the larger project to install an overpass at Union Road. The overpass will require the closure of the left outs at Union Road and Airport Road. This project is currently undergoing design and environmental review.

The project will:  Increase traffic safety by eliminating the potential for broad-side accidents at Airport Road. The left-turn restriction will eliminate slow-moving vehicles from turning across SR46.

• Eliminate conflicts between vehicles turning left out of Airport towards Fresno and vehicles turning left onto Airport from SR46.

Decrease the afternoon traffic queue and driver delay for vehicles turning right onto SR46 as the left-turning vehicles will not longer block the right-turning vehicles.

• The eastbound turning movement alternatives available to the motoring public include:

a. The Jardine Road Intersection for left turns onto SR46 East.

b. U-turn at Golden Hill Road Signal

c. Union Road to Golden Hill Road to the right turn at SR46 East.

Motorists should use caution when driving during construction and always use appropriate caution while driving.

NEWS BRIEFS

Waste Management to provide residential Spring Clean Up for unincorporated SLO County residents

Waste Management (WM) will allow customers in unincorporated San Luis Obispo County to dispose of additional waste on their scheduled service day between Monday, May 6, and Friday, May 10.

Each single-family residence may dispose of up to 12 32-gallon bags or cans, not exceeding 40 lbs each. Bags/ cans must be placed curbside by 6 a.m. on service day. Larger bulky items or bags exceeding 40 lbs need to be scheduled for removal with the local office before clean-up day for an additional fee.

Items that will not be accepted are large bulky items or bags exceeding 40lbs (unless scheduled in advance), hazardous waste, electronic waste, and pressure-treated lumber.

Grazing goats welcomed back to Salinas River to prevent wildfires

On Thursday, May 2, the City of Paso Robles welcomed the return of goats and sheep to begin grazing the primary firebreaks within the Salinas River. Grazing is an approved method as part of The City of Paso Robles Vegetation Management Program for reducing the risk of wildfire.

The city has chosen grazing to maintain firebreaks because of its effectiveness and low environmental impact. City fire officials have seen a significant reduction in new fire starts and acres burned since implementing grazing within the Salinas River in 2021. Each year, there has been a noticeable increase in the effectiveness of grazing over that of the previous year, 2023 continued that trend, showing the best result to date.

Once again, the Salinas River saw significant water flow, requiring swift water rescue operations on multiple occasions. Like the previous winter, the much-needed rain also brought with it increased growth of light, flashy fuels, such as grasses, mustard plants, and thistle. Once cured by the summer heat, these plants become receptive fuel beds for fire ignitions and increase fire spread if left untreated.

With help from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council, the city will once again treat the annual growth and ensure the established firebreaks within the Salinas River.

The city is focusing on treating the most critical areas for fire protection first, then expanding out where possible. Grazing activities will begin along North River Road, north of Highway 46 East, progress south, and is estimated to be complete on or prior to June 10.

Portions of the walking path between 13th Street and Niblick will close periodically as grazing progresses through those areas. Members of the public are encouraged to visit the area but be aware of the electric fencing used to contain the animals and are asked to not touch it. Grazing will be administered by The Goat Girls LLC and paid for with grant funds provided by The San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council.

City of Paso Robles holding open house for Beechwood Community Park on May 15

The City of Paso Robles is hosting an open house to gather input on concept plans for a community park with youth sports facilities to be built within the Beechwood Specific Plan residential master plan area. The open house will happen on Wednesday, May 15, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Virginia Peterson Elementary School multipurpose room located at 2501 Beechwood Drive in Paso Robles.

Led by Rick Engineering, this meeting will give community members and neighborhood residents an opportunity to provide feedback on concept plans for a community park to be located near the corner of Beechwood Drive and Silver Oak Drive in the future Beechwood neighborhood. Attendees of the open house will be able to review

concept plans and options for the park and provide input as to which amenities they would most like to see included in the final plan.

The Beechwood Community Park will be an 8-acre publicly owned and accessible open space featuring passive and active recreation facilities designed to serve both neighborhood and community needs. The current design concept for the park features ball fields and multi-use athletic fields that will provide space for a variety of youth sports activities. The concept also includes picnic areas, gazebos, a playground, and parking along the park’s perimeter. While the concept may be modified, according to the Beechwood Specific Plan adopted by the Paso Robles City Council in October of 2020, the ultimate design must support active and passive recreation needs for the community.

The Beechwood Specific Plan project, located in the southeast area of the city, includes the construction of 911 residential units, including 150 multi-family residential units; 40,000 square feet of neighborhood commercial/mixeduse development; over 20 acres of open space that include smaller public green spaces and conserved open space; and a 2.9-mile multi-use pathway network. The builder for the Beechwood project is Harrod Built Construction, with Rick Engineering attached as the civil engineers.

Community members originally reviewed ideas for recreation amenities for the Beechwood Specific Plan during a meeting at Virginia Peterson Elementary School in April of 2018.

Templeton Elementary registration for the 2024-25 school year open

New student enrollment (TK-2 grade) for the 2024-25 school year has begun. Residents are asked to email the following three items required to pre-register their new student(s) to jfielder@templetonusd.org. They are proof of residence (current utility bill or escrow documents with your name and physical  address on it), their child’s birth certificate, and their child’s immunization records (even if not current for school entry).

**California Senate Bill 277 states that exemptions for religious beliefs or other personal beliefs will no longer be accepted.

Please be advised that kindergarten class placement is based on many factors. A.m. or p.m. class preference will be considered but cannot be guaranteed.

Letters confirming a.m. or p.m. placement will be mailed in late June to all students whose online registration is complete, and a copy of a current immunization record that meets all of the requirements for school entry has been submitted.

The Kindergarten Readiness Act changed the age for entrance into kindergarten in California. Children must be five years of age for kindergarten by Sept. 1, 2024, for the 2024-2025 school year.

Transitional kindergarten is the first year of a two-year kindergarten program for children whose  kindergarten entrance is changed as a result of this law. Children will be enrolled in transitional kindergarten if their fifth birthday is between Sept. 2 and June 2 for the 2024-25 school year.

**All transitional kindergarten students must meet the same requirements as kindergarten students, including proof of residency, birth certificate, and immunizations current for school entry.

Interdistrict transfer applications are currently being accepted. You must first be released from your district of residence before contacting the Templeton District Office at 960 Old County Road. For more information, please contact Jessica Fielder at jfielder@ templetonusd.org or 805-434-5820.

2024

ATASCADERO

Services announced the Fire Hazard Reduction Burn Season closed Monday, May 6, for Atascadero residents.

A reminder to residents that the burn day status, whether it is a permissive burn day or not, changes daily and is determined by the California Air Resources Board and North County weather conditions. Burning is never allowed within five days of measurable rain.

Permits are required and can be obtained online by visiting the city’s website at atascadero.org or by using the Public Fire Safety App. To register for a permit, a resident’s name, street address, and text messaging phone number are required. Those who do not have Internet Access can request a permit at (805) 461-5070 Ext. 8 or visit City Hall at 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero.

For more information, go to atascadero.org.

Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services strongly encourages residents to utilize alternative forms of disposal, such as the Waste Alternatives’ Green Waste recycling container or the Chicago Grade Landfill.  Burning should be used as a last resort.

Copies of Atascadero’s Burn Regulations are available on our website at atascadero.org/fire. Citations will be issued for violations of the burning regulations. If residents would like further information they can contact Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services at (805) 461-5070.

Atascadero Police investigating fatal incident on Del Rio overpass

At approximately 11:37 a.m. on Wednesday, May 1, the Atascadero Police Department and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) were alerted to a distressing event on the Del Rio overpass involving reports of a female individual jumping onto northbound Highway 101.

Officers from the Atascadero Police Department (APD), California Highway Patrol, as well as deputies from the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department, and personnel from the City of Atascadero Fire Department responded to the scene.

According to a press release from APD, upon arrival, authorities discovered a female adult deceased in the northbound lanes of Highway 101, indicating an apparent suicide.

APD said in their statement, “Our hearts go out to the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time.”

In the interest of a thorough investigation, northbound Highway 101 was temporarily closed for approximately one and a half hours. The identity of the deceased is being withheld at this time, pending notification of next of kin.

The Atascadero Police Department is actively investigating this tragic incident and urges anyone with pertinent information to come forward. If you have any details that could assist in their investigation, please contact the Atascadero Police Department at (805) 461-5051.

APD said, “We extend our deepest sympathies to all those affected by this unfortunate event.”

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Prescribed burning starts at Montaña de Oro State Park

Prescribed burning of brush piles and broadcast burning will take place at Montana de Oro State Park from Tuesday, May 7 through Thursday, June 6.

Actual burn days and locations will be determined by weather and permit conditions. Ignitions may start as early as 7 a.m. with fire activity curtailed by approximately 5 p.m.

Burn sites include approximately 50 brush piles and the duff layer in the vicinity of the Environmental Camps near Hazard Canyon, and 400 brush piles between Horse Camp and Hazard Canyon along Pecho Valley Road.

The burns will take place to reduce fuel

loads and fire hazards as well as enhanc e the health of the native plant communities, and aid in the control of non-native, weedy species.

California State Parks, in cooperation with CAL FIRE and the Air Pollution Control District, will conduct the controlled burns. For more information, please call San Luis Obispo Coast District Superintendent Dan Falat at (805) 927-2065.

SLO Food Bank champions free money for food during CalFresh Awareness Month

In honor of CalFresh Awareness Month in May, the SLO Food Bank announces a multifaceted campaign to raise awareness about and encourage applications to CalFresh, the California benefits program that provides money for food to people experiencing food insecurity. The campaign will dispel common misconceptions about receiving benefits and encourage applications to CalFresh through educational outreach and partnerships with local media.

The CalFresh Program, federally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), is a nutrition assistance program that provides eligible individuals and families with monthly financial assistance to purchase food at grocery stores and some farmers’ markets. The SLO Food Bank’s CalFresh Outreach program is committed to ensuring that all eligible individuals are informed about and have access to the critical benefits of CalFresh through education, marketing, and programming.

In San Luis Obispo County, the SLO Food Bank, the CalFresh Alliance, the SLO County Departments of Public Health and Social Services, and the University of California Cooperative Extension, are all invested in increasing CalFresh enrollment rates. CalFresh currently aids over 25,000 San Luis Obispo County residents, contributing to both the well-being of individuals and families and a substantial $335 million in economic activity throughout our region.

For more information on CalFresh, visit calfreshslo.org or call (805) 238-4664.

Woods Humane Society to host four free microchip clinics in May In honor of National Chip Your Pet Month, Woods Humane Society announces four free microchip clinics to help members of the public protect their pets. The free clinics will be held on Thursday, May 9, and Thursday, May 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Woods San Luis Obispo location and on Friday, May 10, and Friday, May 24, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Woods North County location.

Woods CEO Emily L’Heureux explains that a microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted just under the skin. Each chip contains a unique code that can be easily scanned by a veterinarian or an animal shelter employee to look up the pet owner’s contact information in an online database.

The American Humane Association estimates that only 15 percent of lost dogs and 2 percent of lost cats in shelters without ID tags or microchips are reunited with their owners. Microchips normally cost $20 at Woods Humane Society, but the fee has been waived for participants in the May microchip clinics thanks in part to the support of microchip company 24PetWatch.

Local pet owners can make an appointment to get their pets microchipped for free on Thursday, May 9 and 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Woods’ San Luis Obispo location, and on Friday, May 10 and 24, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Woods’ Atascadero location.

For more information, visit woodshumane.org/adoptions/microchip/ or call (805) 543-9316.

Woods Humane Society is located at 875 Oklahoma Ave., in San Luis Obispo, and at 2300 Ramona Road, in Atascadero.

Betty was born to Walter and Laura Myer in Oxnard, California.

She attended Santa Paula and Oxnard High and graduated from Oxnard High in 1945. She

Evelyn Louise Bernasconi-Roth, 89, of Templeton, California, entered into eternal rest on

With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Glen Lee Schuck

played softball and the saxophone in the school’s marching band. After graduating, she worked at a local Five & Dime store, where she met her future husband, Albert Marple.

She was an avid softball player and an overall great athlete. She was invited to try out for the newly formed All-American Woman’s Professional Baseball League depicted in the movie “A League of Their Own.”  In 1947, she married Albert, and they moved to Herlong, Ca.  where she worked as a financial clerk for the Sierra Army Depot. In 1953, they moved back to Oxnard, where the couple raised their three boys.

April 24, 2024, after a long life filled with love, happiness, and fulfillment.

Evelyn was born on November 3, 1934, to Clem and Eva Bernasconi in Salinas, California. After Evelyn graduated from King City High School in 1953, she went on to study at Highland School of Nursing. Evelyn earned her registered nurse’s degree in 1956 after completing her nursing internship at Highland Hospital Emergency Room in Oakland, CA. Evelyn had a long history of service as a registered nurse until she retired from the California Youth Authority

on April 2, 2024. Glen, also known as Penny, was a remarkable man whose kindness, resilience, and selflessness touched the lives of all who knew him. He was a shining example of living a life of purpose and meaning while bringing laughter to all.

Glen was born on February 2, 1939, in Gardena, California, and spent his formative years working on his family’s dairy ranch. In 1962, he was drafted into the army and served his country dutifully. The trauma he experienced during his service left him

She volunteered as an assistant librarian at Kamala Elementary and later worked for the Oxnard School District as an office clerk.  Her free time was spent backpacking and camping with her family. She hiked the John Muir Trail in the Sierras and stood atop Mt. Whitney. She enjoyed every aspect of baseball, whether it be keeping score at little league games or visiting all major league baseball stadiums around the country.

Betty and Albert were members of the Escapee RV Club.  They enjoyed many trips with the group. Betty and Albert were among the pioneers

in Paso Robles in 1997.

Evelyn met her future husband, Fred Roth, in High School. However, she would first pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a registered nurse before they finally married in January 1964 in Reno, NV. In December of that same year, Evelyn and Fred welcomed their son, Bryan, adding to the brood of Fred’s two sons and daughter from a previous marriage, whom Evelyn also loved as her own. Evelyn was remarkably intelligent, with a passionate soul and a beaming personality. Her continuous pursuit of educa-

with deep emotional scars that he carried with him for the rest of his life.

Despite his challenges, Glen refused to be defeated by his experiences. After his service, he became an owner-operator truck driver, a profession he loved and excelled at. Eventually, he started his own successful trucking business, which was a testament to his hard work, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In his later years, Glen found peace and solace in tending to his property in

who built, from the ground up, the beautiful Escapee RV Park in Coarsegold, CA. She loved Dixieland Jazz music and enjoyed dancing and singing along. Square Dancing was also a passion, and the couple danced all over the United States. Betty enjoyed reading Zane Grey Westerns and watching Westerns on TV.

Betty and Al were married for over 60 years, and upon his passing, she moved from the Oxnard/Port Hueneme area to Atascadero in 2012 to be closer to her family. She is survived by her three sons: Larry Marple, wife Maureen of Tahoe City, Dan Marple, wife Susan of Paso

tion allowed for an abundance of wisdom and life advice to her friends and family. Evelyn’s family will cherish the memories of her stories that she has shared of her times caring for patients in the Highland Hospital Emergency Room or King City Clinic, as well as daily life on the ranch with Freddy and the kids. Please take some time to add your memory and/or photo of Evelyn on the webpage: https://www.dignitymemorial. com/obituaries/paso-robles-ca/ evelyn-roth-11785963

Evelyn was predeceased by her late husband, Fred Roth,

Templeton and spending time with his beloved grandchildren. He was a devoted and loving grandfather who cherished every moment with them.

Glen leaves a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family, community, and country. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who were blessed to have known him. Although he is no longer with us, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace, reunited

Robles, and Randy Marple and Carla McMillian of San Luis Obispo. She had eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

Betty always had a smile and a hug for everyone she met. She kept her sense of humor and smile until the very end. She will be truly missed by everyone who knew her.

A celebration of her life will be held on Sunday, May 19th, at Atascadero Lake Park in Atascadero from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm. Contributions can be made in her name to the Central Coast Home Health and Hospice Organization.

and stepdaughter, Renee Roth. She is survived by her sons Bryan Roth, Bill Roth, and Matt Roth, her sister Arlene Dedini, and many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Services were held at the San Miguel Mission on Thursday, May 9, at 11:30 am, with a small reception to follow. The family requests that guests please wear something bright, pastel, or floral to represent Evelyn’s colorful personality and style. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wilshire Hospice Services of San Luis Obispo.

with his beloved mother and surrounded by the eternal love and comfort of the heavens above.

The commemoration of Glen’s journey will be announced at a later date.

JOHN A. SILVA, DVM, 74, of Paso Robles passed away on April 20, 2024.

Services are in the care of Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary, Santa Maria, CA

ELIZABETH “BETTY” MARPLE, 96, of Atascadero passed away on April 25, 2024.

Services are in the care of Chapel of the Roses

MARCIA ANN SOMMERMEYER, 91, of Grover Beach passed away on April 30th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

MARIA LUISA FLORES, 95, of Oceano passed away on April 27th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

BARBARA ANNE SHECKHERD, 86, of Arroyo Grande passed away on April 26th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

VINCENT “VAL” DELANEY, 95, of Arroyo Grande passed away on April 27th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

MELISSA PALMER age 48 a resident of San Luis Obispo passed away on 04/17/2024

In the care of Blue Sky Cremation and Burial Service

NANCY BUCHANAN age 102 a resident of San Luis Obispo passed away on 04/26/2024

WARRANT/MISDEMEANOR, WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 241396 16:52 — Artemio Garciaespinobarros, of San Miguel was on view arrest on the corner of 33rd and Spring Streets for WILLFULLY RESISTS,DELAYS,OBSTRUCTS…[148(A)(1)PC], DISORDERLY CONDUCT/PUBLIC INTOXICATION [647(F)PC], CASE NO. 241398

MAY 1, 2024

03:50 — Guillermo Chavezcuellar, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 3100 Block of Spring St for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/PUBLIC INTOXICATION [647(F)PC], Case no. 241401

04:21 — Ayaub Talibi, of San Francisco was on view arrest on the 100 Block of Niblick Rd for UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION [11550(A)HS], Case no. 241402

09:32 — Rebecca Ann Hurl, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 100 Block of Niblick Rd for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 241405

WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION [11550(A)HS], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A)H&S], Case no. 241391

20:32 — Michael David Huhtala, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1100 Block of Spring

St for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/DRUNK IN PUBLIC [647(F)PC], Case no. 241394

APRIL 30, 2024

08:10 — Alexander Alcala Alvarado, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 24th St and Riverside Ave for PROBATION VIOLATION [1203.2(A)PC], DRIVING WITH A LICENSE SUSPENDED FOR A DUI [14601.2(A) VC], Case no. 241395

12:17 — Devin Edward James Menane, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the corner of Black Oak Dr and 24th St for OUTSIDE

10:34 — Kimberly Nicole Oneal, of San Miguel was on view arrest on the 1100 Block of Spring St for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/PUBLIC INTOXICATION [647(F)PC], Case no. 241406

12:12 — William Longfellow, of Paso Robles for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 241408

19:14 — Elijah Daniel Kulinski, of Paso Robles was summoned/cited for SHOPLIFTING UNDER $950 [459.5(A)PC], Case no. 241410

19:53 — Vincent James Dinapoli, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 2000 Block of River Rd for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S],

POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED

SUBSTANCE [11377(A)H&S], Case no. 241411

20:54 — Rosalio Zamora Jr., of Paso Robles for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08

PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 241412

MAY 1, 2024

09:37 — Alberic Roland Nault Jr., of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 3200 Block of Spring St for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/COHABITANT [273.5(A) PC], ABANDONMENT AND NEGLECT OF CHILDREN [273A(A)PC], BURGLARY [459PC], Case no. 241415 09:12 — Edward Glenn Hash II, of Atascadero was on view crest on the 500 Block of Spring St for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], Case no. 241414

10:55 - Michael Eugene Harris, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the corner of Black Oaks Dr and 24th St for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 241416

14:11 — Elmer Rosendo Quiterio Jr., of Paso Robles for WARRANTLESS ARREST [849(B)

PC], Case no. 241419

14:09 — Kacey Lynn Duque, of Paso Robles for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], Case no. 241419

23:38 — Elina Quinn Branco, of Paso Robles

was on view arrest on the 300 Block of 14th St for VANDALISM OVER $400 [594(B)(1) PC], ESCAPE/ATTEMPTED ESCAPE WHILE CONFINED [4532(B)(1)PC], Case no. 241427

00:00 — Jacob Luke McIlwainraymond, of Paso Robles was summoned/cited on the corner of Niblick and S. River Road for DRIVING WITH A LICENSE SUSPENDED FOR A DUI [14601.2(A)VC], Case no. 241428

MAY 3, 2024

17:15 — Cheyenne Viva Stanley, of Paso Robles

was on view arrest on the corner of Creston and Niblick for SHOPLIFTING UNDER $950

[459.5(A)PC], FAILURE TO APPEAR IN COURT FOR TRAFFIC VIOLATION [40508(A)VC], CASE NO. 241434

09:20 — Anthony Dominguezesquivel, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 2200 Block of Theatre Dr for WILLFULLY RESISTS,DELAYS,OBSTRUCTS…[148(A)(1)PC], BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 241429

21:26 — Jorge Luis Santanamartinez, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 1st and Oak Streets for DRIVING WITH A LICENSE SUSPENDED FOR A DUI [14601.2(A)VC], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A)H&S], Case no. 241437

11:13 — Jorge Vargasmoreno, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on 18th St Alley Way for VANDALISM [594(A)(1)PC], DISORDERLY CONDUCT/PUBLIC INTOXICATION [647(F)PC], Case no 241431

MAY 4, 2024

00:45 — Jennifer Ashley Delucas, of Atascadero was taken into custody on the 800 Block of 6th St for TR, Case no. 241439

12:27 — Edgar Stanley Canales, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the corner of 12th St and Riverside Ave for OUTSIDE WARRANT/ MISDEMEANOR, WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 241444 14:04 — Dustin David Herring, of Bakersfield was on view arrest on the 800 Block of Spring St for POSSES, OR USE TEAR GAS FOR ANY PURPOSE OTHER THAN SELF-DEFENSE [22810(A)PC], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A)H&S], POSSESSION OF BURGLARY TOOLS [466PC], Case no. 241445

MAY 5, 2024

23:58 — Jorge Rosalesesteban, was on view arrest on the 1300 Block of Creston Rd for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 241450

09:43 — Christian Garcia, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 24th St and Black Oak Dr for POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 241452 ATASCADERO POLICE DEPARTMENT

APRIL 28, 2024

03:03 — Markell Joseph Adams, of Atascadero was arrested on the 5500 Block of Traffic Way for OUTSIDE WARRANT-FELONY, Case no. 240689

20:42 — Cesar Antonio Cerda Jr., of Atascadero was arrested on the 9400 Block of El Camino

Real for OUTSIDE WARRANT- MISDEMEANOR, Case

MAY

14:42 — Nadegia Cerda, of San Luis Obispo was on view arrest on the 800 Block of Spring St for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A) H&S], POSSESSION OF BURGLARY TOOLS [466PC], Case no. 241445 21:32 — Jesse Reay Magorian, of Templeton was on view arrest on the corner of HWY 46 and Golden Hill Rd for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 241449

Free speech is a cherished notion that has stood at the gates of liberty for nearly 250 years and made us the shining city on the hill. However, we run the risk of foregoing our commitment to it as a fractured society simply appears to reject the time-tested method for conflict resolution: namely, the ability to air our differences in a civil, meaningful dialogue that seeks to rely upon reason and compromise not based upon partisan gains or losses.

We are a society that has accomplished social advancement through our ability to reach consensus. Our governmental system represents a solid commitment to agreement through words not warfare. President Joe Biden has made very clear that affirming the right to  peaceful protest is ultimately preferable to chaos. Our institutions of higher learning are currently the battleground for momentous debate.

As one who has spent the past 70 years watching the Civil Rights Movement change the trajectory of how we deal with segregation and racism, fighting against our involvement in Vietnam, witnessing a president being disgraced and removed from office, living through an era that saw two Kennedys and Dr. King assassinated, and looking upon with horror students gunned down on a college campus, I am today witnessing another generation trying to cope with the atrocities in Gaza.

We have all watched with horror the events of Oct. 7 and the subsequent events triggered by displacement that has cost the lives of over 34,000 mostly women and children in Gaza. Both actions are reprehensible and have no place in a civil society. Efforts

OPINION

Good News • Real News • Your Hometown News

From the Right and the Left: Seeking a civil path in Palestine protest

to stem this catastrophe by seeking negotiation through a ceasefire accompanied by discussion that seeks peace not persecution must prevail. There has to be a concerted effort to live in a world where peace respects differing ideologies. Antisemitism has no place in an academic or humane society. Hatred and it’s accompanying violence must be avoided. President Biden has offered the following: “this blatant Antisemitism is reprehensible and dangerous and it has absolutely no place on college campuses, or anywhere in our country.”

There is little data to suggest whether outside agitators are playing a critical role in advancing protests on either or both sides of the equation. Hopefully there will be efforts to identify exactly who is behind the efforts to bring to the world’s attention the unrest that is simmering on college campuses. We must make meaningful changes through debate and negotiation and if indeed there is outside intervention there is no room at the bargaining table.

In a recent article published in Vox by Ellen Ioanes and Nicole Narea, they identify what exactly is behind the protests. At Columbia, the protesters belong to CUAD (Columbia University Apartheid Divest), a coalition of student organizations working towards achieving a liberated Palestine and the end of Israeli apartheid by urging Columbia to divest all economic and academic stakes in Israel.

“Their vision is a free Palestine… The coalition’s demands for divestment are of a piece with BDS (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions) movement started by Palestinian civil society groups in 2005,” the authors write. “BDS cites as its inspiration the anti-apartheid activists of the 1980s who targeted South Africa’s apartheid government with boycotts.”

It seems that a core issue surrounding the activities that are currently being voiced on campuses across not only the United States but in London, Paris, and other European cities is the degree to which free speech is tolerated and encouraged in our institutions of higher learning, especially with regard

he current spate of campus takeovers by pro-Palestinian, anti-Israeli and often anti-Semitic protesters turns out to be neither an accident nor, for the most part, spontaneous.

This first became clear when demonstrators yelling “We Are Hamas” and “Gas the Jews” appeared on university campuses early on Oct. 8, the morning after the terrorist group’s surprise attack killed at least 1,200 Israeli Jews and kidnapped another 240, while also raping and mutilating an unknown number of others and burning hundreds of homes. Those demonstrations were clearly pre-planned, coming a full week before Israel began its war on

to pressure on divestiture and disclosure of their investments in companies and organizations linked to Israel and its war on Gaza.

A recent news article by Al Jazeera suggests “the protesters at Columbia University, who began building encampments on campus on April 17, are calling for Columbia to divest from corporations that they believe profit from Israel’s war on Gaza,” while the New York University (NYU) Alumni for Palestine website calls on NYU to “terminate all vendor contracts with companies playing active roles in the military occupation in Palestine and ongoing genocide in Gaza, namely Cisco, Lockheed Martin, Caterpillar, and General Electric”.

Students at different U.S. universities are calling for greater transparency about their institutions’ investments. A student who is part of the encampments at Tufts University outside Boston told Al Jazeera that one of the “biggest demands of the students” is for the university to disclose its investments. The only outstanding issue that remains is to qualify and quantify the extent to which the issue is being driven by outside sources, which is an issue that needs extensive oversight.

There is little doubt that this is a potentially dicey issue that will greatly test the resolve of higher education institutions to sustain free speech in light of a highly politicized program aimed at divestiture. Protecting the prerogative of universities to maximize investments while under pressure to also protect free speech is likely to create rough going for school administrators as they wrestle with an active student body. If this is not enough, additional efforts to protect against what appears to be an inevitable slide into the antisemite arena will only further test school administrators’ efforts in a highly political cauldron. Stop the violence!

Lance Simmens is an independent columnist for Atascadero News / Paso Robles Press, he alongside Don Schmitz write a bi-weekly column on national topics from the perspective of their political leanings. You can forward any comments you have to editor@13starsmedia.com.

The protests at over 33 college campuses all over the country are mislabeled as “Pro Palestine” or “Anti Genocide.” None of us can peer in the hearts of all the protesters, and likely many are deeply sincere in those beliefs, but we can listen to what they are chanting, we can read their banners and literature, which is often an ugly, anti-American, anti-Semitic picture.

Their own words often aren’t pro-peace, they are pro-war and support terrorism against Israel and the U.S. Banners calling for “Intifada” are displayed. The Second Intifada from 2000 to 2005 in Israel included 130 suicide bombings at restaurants and on buses, designed to maximize civilian casualties. At George Washington University protesters chanted, “Smash the Zionist settler state” and “There is only one solution, intifada revolution”! Of course, the favorite is “From the River to the Sea, Palestine will be free”, which means the complete destruction of all of Israel. Signs were held up next to pro-Israel demonstrators reading “Al-Qassam’s next targets.” Al-Qassam is the armed branch of the Islamic movement. Not subtle. It is naked political manipulation to put a palatable face on this despotic movement by the usual suspects on the radical left.

“Squad” member Ilhan Omar denounced the arrests of “peaceful protesters” at Columbia University who “were only speaking out against genocide.” Nationally 2,100 have been arrested, but most are simply released and face no real consequences. Many of the protesters aren’t students. Thirty-two of the 112 arrested

in Columbia aren’t affiliated with the university, and last week in 11 of 12 instances where statistics are available, more outsiders were arrested than students.

Fortunately, mainstream Democrats and Republicans are denouncing their hatred, vandalism, and violence.

Democrat New York City mayor Eric Adams lamented “outside agitators” for escalating the protests. Democrat California Assemblyman Rick Zbur wrote the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights to investigate civil rights violations of Jewish students at UCLA. California Republican leaders have demanded the firing of UCLA and Cal Poly Humboldt leadership for failing to protect Jewish students. Senator Marco Rubio (R) is calling for students who are not American citizens to be sent back to their countries if they are participating in these widespread demonstrations.

President Biden struck the right tone in a short speech stating; “vandalism, violence, hate speech and other chaos has no part in a peaceful protest. Dissent is essential for democracy, but dissent must never lead to disorder.”

Appropriately, no protesters are being arrested for exercising their free speech, no matter how reprehensible. They are being arrested for creating illegal camps, intimidating other students and not allowing them to get to class, defacing and breaking into buildings, which they barricade. Legitimate peaceful demonstrations are occurring across the country on and off campuses on both sides of the issue, with no interference from law enforcement. However, should a demonstrator be expelled from a university for their illegal actions, Seyed Mahmoud Aghamiri, the dean of Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, said his school would “accept students who have been expelled for protesting against the actions of the Zionists. We have considered scholarship for these students and we fully cover the cost of education, dormitory and accommodation.” Telling. Hamas, along

Qatari money and the pro-Palestinian

Gaza, from which the Hamas forces had come.

A stunned Israel had not yet taken revenge, but protesters behaved as if the Jewish nation had already bombed Gaza to smithereens.

The pre-planning goes back to widespread campus “clubs” called Students for Justice in Palestine, long financed in part by the oil-rich Arab emirate Qatar and in part by private donors. Qatar’s access to major college campuses was helped by more than $11 billion in contributions to American universities since 1988.

As of 2017, California campuses including Stanford University, UCLA, UC Berkeley and USC were among the top 10 recipients of Qatari money, according to one federal report. Some universities, including New York state’s Cornell University and Northwestern University outside Chicago, eventually established branch campuses in the desert Qatari city of Doha. One big irony was Northwestern setting up a $600 million branch of its noted journalism school in Qatar, where

there is no press freedom.

Another irony saw Qatar, which has reportedly contributed at least $3 billion to Hamas, set itself up as the main “neutral” arbitrator seeking a cease fire after Israel eventually did launch its response to Oct. 7.

Meanwhile, federal reports between 2015 and 2020 concluded that universities with major funding from Arab countries including Qatar and Saudi Arabia experienced 300 percent more anti-Semitic incidents than those that did not get such funding. Institutions receiving Qatari cash during the same period had 250 percent more anti-Semitic episodes than those which got none.

And the New York-based Lawfare Project, which examined Qatar’s involvement in American higher education through the Qatar Foundation International, expressed concerns over biased presentation of content in classes related to the Middle East. The group reported that Qatari money spurred positively skewed teaching about Islam while sidelining balanced discussions of other religions like Juda -

with Islamic Jihad and Hezbollah, are proxy armies trained, armed and funded by Iran to attack Israel and the U.S.  Have you noticed that the encampments all have the same tents, are well organized and supplied? According to the New York Post the encampments at Harvard, Yale, UC Berkeley, Ohio State, and Emory in Georgia were organized by branches of Students for Justice in Palestine, which are funded by the radical leftist Soros family. They are not spontaneous. A united America is far too strong to defeat from without, so our enemies from Russia to China and Iran seek to fracture us internally, and separate us from our allies, by sowing discord from within. Our leftwing universities have been fertile ground for their efforts.

Refreshingly, Americans are starting to see through this, recognizing Hamas as a brutal terrorist organization seeking a worldwide caliphate imposing Sharia law by force, starting with Israel. After observing with disgust demonstrators replacing Old Glory with the Palestinian flag at UCLA, we cheered when fratboys at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill surrounded their flagpole to protect our flag from screaming Palestinian groups throwing water bottles at them. Eventually they were overwhelmed, and the Palestinian flag replaced the Stars And Stripes, whereupon Chancellor Lee Roberts personally walked into the crowd and put our flag back up. Sadly, reflective of our national confusion, the flagpole ultimately was left empty with no flag, right here in our land. Our cherished God given First Amendment rights are integral to this amazing country, but respect our laws and America while exercising it. On this Republicans and Democrats, conservatives and liberals, agree.

Don Schmitz is an independent columnist for Atascadero News / Paso Robles Press, he alongside Lance Simmens write a bi-weekly column on national topics from the perspective of their political leanings. You can forward any comments you have to editor@13starsmedia.com.

ism and Christianity.

Meanwhile, federal reports indicated that virtually all universities on the take from Qatar violated laws requiring them to disclose foreign donations, concealing unknown amounts of funding from oil rich countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

For those who have wondered why many faculty members at California campuses like UC Berkeley, Stanford, USC, UCLA and UC Santa Barbara participate enthusiastically in the ongoing protests, where an unknown but significant percentage of participants are not actual students, the Qatari and other Arab contributions might provide a clue, as they help fund hundreds of teaching positions.

Other reports confirm that between the 2001 Twin Towers attack and 2021, Qatar contributed $4.7 billion to American universities, with California campuses getting their proportionate share.

The National Association of Scholars concluded most of the recipients did not report all they received,

including $100 million taken by Texas A&M University. Could all this offer some explanation for why university presidents did little about the hate spewed at the SJP-organized protests until those demonstrations morphed into tent cities taking over central areas on the campuses of Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCLA and USC, to name only four of the California universities now involved? All are among major recipients of Qatari money. The funding also helped create one of the many recent scandals at USC, when a prince from that country landed on its academic dean’s list several years ago despite almost never attending classes. The prince’s spokespeople labeled much of the local reportage on this as “outright bigoted.”

But many other reports indicate it was Qatari money and not local newspapers that have apparently led to the bigotry and anti-Semitism now plaguing many universities.

Thomas Elias is an independent opinion columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email him at tdelias@aol.com.

EVENTS

MAY – JUNE Calendar of Events

MAY 11

PASO ROBLES OLIVE & LAVENDER FESTIVAL

CITY PARK, DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES

(805) 238-4103

Join us on Saturday, May 11, at City Park for the Paso Robles Olive & Lavender Festival. From 10 am to 5 pm, savor olive oil and olive tastings, explore art and crafts, and indulge in wine, beer, and spirits tastings. Admission is free for all. Visit pasoroblesdowntown.org for details.

MAY 15

EXPO AT THE EXPO

ALEX MADONNA EXPO CENTER

SAN LUIS OBISPO

4–7 pm

The EXPO at the Expo is the Central Coast’s largest business trade show, featuring 100+ local exhibitors and drawing a crowd of 2,000 attendees annually. It’s not just about

exposure; it’s a chance to network with local businesses, find essential services, and offer support. Contact Kaila at kaila@slochamber.org or call (805) 786-2774 for inquiries.

MAY 12

COOKIE ADVENTURE CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO ATASCADERO

Make Mother’s Day special at Charles Paddock Zoo from 11 am to 2 pm. Explore the zoo while savoring delicious cookies from local bakers. Cookie Adventure included with regular admission. For information, call (805) 461-5080 or visit charlespaddockzoo.org. Celebrate with family at Atascadero Charles Paddock Zoo.

MAY 25, 26, 27

MORRO BAY ART IN THE PARK

The 68th annual Morro Bay Art in the Park showcases 125 independent artists and craft workers in a picturesque outdoor setting at Morro Bay Park, San Luis Obispo County. Event dates: May 25-27, 10 am-5 pm (May 27: 10 am-4 pm). Enjoy food, beverages, and creativity at morrobayartinthepark.com.

MAY 31 - JUNE 2

37TH ANNUAL CLASSIC CAR

SHOW

Immerse in Pismo Beach’s grand classic car show, “The Classic.” Hundreds of cars, live music, food, vendors, and beachfront lodging. Attracting car enthusiasts worldwide, sponsored by major companies, and supporting charities. Held in June, open to all car makes/ models. Explore downtown and wineries. Unforgettable experience at theclassicatpismobeach.com.

JUNE TBD

11TH ANNUAL MAC AND CHEESE FEST Date to be Determined themacandcheesefest.com

JUNE 21 - SEPTEMBER 6

SAN LUIS OBISPO CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA

Enjoy live music every Friday evening from June 21 to September 6 at San Luis Obispo’s Mission Plaza. Concerts in the Plaza, presented by Sunset Honda and hosted by Downtown SLO, is the Central Coast’s top free concert series. Email events@DowntownSLO.com or visit DowntownSLO.com for details.

JUNE 21

2024 KIWANIS & MAYORS’ WINEMAKER DINNER PAVILION ON THE LAKE 9315 PISMO AVE, ATASCADERO

The upcoming 14th Annual Atascadero Kiwanis & Mayors’ Winemaker Dinner on June 21 is dedicated to raising support for ECHO (El Camino Homeless Organization). Visit atascaderokiwanis.org for more information.

JUNE 22

WINE FESTIVAL 27TH ANNIVERSARY

STAY TUNED FOR MORE DETAILS

Join the 27th Anniversary of Atascadero WineFest at Atascadero Lake Park from 4 pm to 8 pm. Over 100 wines from 50+ wineries, breweries, artisans, and artists by the lake. Enjoy unlimited tastings, live music, and a unique “roar-and-pour” experience with zoo animals. Proceeds support Charles Paddock Zoo. Details at atascaderolakesidewinefestival.com.

Nashville Nights to benefit Honor Flight Central Coast

California Coast Beer Co and Six Strings for Freedom are coming together to support local nonprofits

NORTH COUNTY — Cal

Coast Beer Co in Paso Robles is set to become the ultimate destination for music enthusiasts with the launch of Nashville Nights, an event featuring the freshest talents from Nashville. This initiative is a collaboration between California Coast Beer Co and Six Strings for Freedom, a nonprofit organization supporting local charities. Proceeds from every Nashville Nights show will directly benefit local charities. On May 9, Honor Flight

Central Coast has been chosen as the beneficiary of the concert proceeds. Honor Flight is an organization committed to honoring veterans by

allowing them to visit Washington, D.C., memorials.

The May 9 concert will feature the talented Travis Denning, a rising star in the country music scene. Denning’s resume includes headlining tours and performances alongside notable artists like Cole Swindell, Dierks Bentley, and Alan Jackson, and songwriting credits for acclaimed musicians such as Morgan Wallen and Jason Aldean. With over 760 million streams globally, Denning’s music has captivated audiences worldwide, earning him recognition as one of CRS New Faces, an Opry NextStage recipient, and a CMA KixStart Artist.

Adding local flair to the evening’s lineup is Carson Wallace, a Central California native who has ventured to Nashville to pursue his musical dreams. Wallace’s latest release, “Too Long,” showcases his talent and passion for country music. Nashville Nights featuring Travis Denning and Carson Wallace will occur on May 9 at 8 p.m. at California Coast Beer Co in Paso Robles. Tickets can be purchased online at eventbrite. com/e/nashville-nights-with-travis-denning-special-guest-carson -wallace-tickets-858961325447?aff=erelpanelorg . For more information about Honor Flight Central Coast, visit honorflightccc.org

Festival Mozaic unveils diverse lineup for San Luis Obispo Summer Music Festival, scheduled

Music director Scott Yoo presents vibrant mix of genres, from baroque to jazz

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY —

The Festival Mozaic has announced the schedule for its 2024 San Luis Obispo Summer Music Festival, scheduled from July 18-27. Twenty-one events over 10 days — from free recitals to a climactic orchestral concert — encompass performances by music director and violinist Scott Yoo, as well as marquee soloists and artists from the nation’s finest orchestras.

Unlike some performing arts series, Festival Mozaic is not confined to a single genre, venue, or even the indoors. The natural beauty and architectural splendor of San Luis Obispo County shine throughout the lineup, as music lovers experience the best in Baroque works, chamber pieces, world premieres, jazz, and Americana among/in missions and vineyards.

“It is with great excitement and joy that I present to you Festival Mozaic’s 2024 San Luis Obispo Summer Music Festival,” Yoo says. “As we gather once again to celebrate the beauty and power of music, we embark on a journey of discovery, inspiration, and connection.”

This season, Yoo appears in his familiar guises as violinist, conductor, and host, adding a new role: composer. The opening

from July 18-27

night chamber concert (July 19) includes not one but two world premieres: Yoo’s “Piano Quartet, op. 1,” and Canadian piano virtuoso Stewart Goodyear’s “Octet.” The program concludes with the expansive “Piano Quintet” by Sibelius.

One of Festival Mozaic’s signature events, Baroque in the Vines, takes place the following evening, featuring works by Telemann and J.S. Bach at the hilltop Serra Chapel. The picturesque, historically styled building is just over 30 years old, but its beauty and sweeping surroundings are timeless.

The historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa was founded in 1772, the same year that Mozart wrote his sprightly “Divertimento

in D Major, K. 131.” It will be heard at the mission July 24 on a program including Ravel’s “Introduction and Allegro” for harp and chamber ensemble.

Festival Mozaic presents a wide range of music in forms ranging from free midday mini-concerts to a family concert with dancers (“Peter and the Wolf,” July 22) to exploratory lecture-recitals called Notable Insights (July 18 and 25), in which Yoo, host of the PBS program “Now Hear This,” guides festivalgoers through what makes masterworks tick. During this year’s Notable Dinner (July 22), he will discuss Felix Mendelssohn’s youthful “Sextet” at Cass Winery in Paso Robles.

The See Canyon Fruit Ranch hosts not one, but two jazz groups July 21, the musically omnivorous “Quarteto Nuevo” and San Luis Obispo’s own Ron McCarley Jazz Quartet opens, while local singer-songwriter Melody Klemin opens for Americana artists Tim Bluhm and The Coffis Brothers appearing at the Dana Adobe Cultural Center in Nipomo on July 25. The festival is screening two films: “Chevalier,” based on the life of Black violinist and composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de SaintGeorge (July 22); and “Earl Kim,” about one of Yoo’s musical mentors. Kim’s “Where Grief Slumbers” for soprano and chamber ensemble is a highlight of the fourth chamber concert (July 26), including Tchaikovsky’s passionate “Souvenir de Florence” for string sextet. When Yoo auditioned for the music directorship of Festival Mozaic in 2004, he conducted Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. His July 27 performance of the work with the Festival Orchestra to close this summer season creates a symbolic bridge to the 2025 festival, which will mark the 20th anniversary of his appointment. This concert will also feature Mozart’s “Magic Flute Overture” and Wagner’s lush “Wesendonck Lieder” with German soprano Sarah Traubel. Single tickets are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit festivalmozaic.org, call (877) 881-8899, or stop by the festival office at 265 South St., Suite G San Luis Obispo, open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Lumina Nights Gala fundraising event declared a success

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Lumina Alliance announced that the Lumina Nights Gala, featuring Dancing with Our Stars, was a success. This inaugural event raised more than $300,000 to support survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence. The event took place at Thousand Hills Ranch in Pismo Beach on April 12 and 13 and was attended by a total of 375 guests.

The Presenting Sponsor was BHE Renewables, who has sponsored Lumina Nights for the past three years. The funds raised at this event will help provide services for survivors in San Luis Obispo County and will have a substantial impact on the lives of survivors and their families.

At the event, the Dancing with Our Stars competition raised almost $82,000, with each local Star Dancer dancing for a specific Lumina Alliance program. The Grand Champion was Cara Crye Wright, president and CEO of Farm Supply Company, who raised $21,938 to support Prevention and Education programs. Jim

Dantona, CEO of the SLO Chamber of Commerce, came in second place, raising $18,647 in support of the Advocacy program. The two Fan Favorite winners were Jeff and Joan Buckingham and Jim Dantona, who dazzled attendees with their fabulous performances.

Lumina Alliance also presented its annual Shining Light Awards to San Luis Obispo County community members who have shown

a commitment to supporting survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence in SLO County.

The award recipients were:

• Ally Award:  Chris Lambert, producer and host of the “Your Own Backyard” podcast Supporter Award:  Kimberley Victor, organizer of Fashions for A Purpose Hero Award:  Kara Samaniego, former

Lumina Alliance board member and leader of Cal Poly’s Safer program Legacy Award:  Jane Pomeroy, former chief communications officer of Lumina Alliance

“We are thrilled that this new event for Lumina Alliance was such an overwhelming success. The important work we do at Lumina Alliance cannot be done without the support of our community, and we are so grateful for the outpouring of generosity. We also owe a great deal of thanks to the sponsors, vendors, dancers, choreographers, and donors who helped to make this event such a success,” said Jennifer Adams, Lumina Alliance CEO.

About Lumina Alliance

Lumina Alliance is a nonprofit

501(c)(3) organization created by the merging of RISE and Stand Strong in July 2021. Their mission is to empower those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through innovative advocacy, healing, and prevention programs. Services include 24/7 crisis and information line, case management, accompaniment and advocacy, emergency shelters, transitional housing, individual and group therapy, and robust prevention education. For more information, please visit LuminaAlliance.org.

California Mid-State Fair announces lineup for Mission Square Stage

All shows are free with paid admission to fair and start at 7 p.m. every night

PASO ROBLES — The California Mid-State Fair announced the following performers for the Mission Square Stage, presented by The Tire Store. All shows are free with your paid admission to the Fair and start at 7 p.m. every night.

July 17: The Moonstone Band — The Moonstone Band is comprised of local seasoned musicians who play music rooted in classic rock and roll. From Fleetwood Mac to Pink Floyd, Steve Winwood, Santana, Sheryl Crow, and more, they are sure to entertain with their eclectic mix of music.

July 18: Monte Mills & the Lucky Horseshoe Band —Monte Mills and the Lucky Horseshoe Band are an iconic band of the California Central Coast, celebrating 48 years of enthusiastic, tireless entertainment. Revisit your youthful memories and make new unforgettable moments that will last a lifetime.

July 19:  IMVA — Drawing from their diverse backgrounds and musical influences, IMVA delivers captivating R&B and soul sounds that leave audiences mesmerized. Their outstanding vocals and dynamic instrumental arrangements have earned them a reputation for creating unforgettable musical experiences.

July 20: Sweet T’s One-Man Caravan — Fresh off his residency with Irish rockers U2, Terry Lawless has toured all his adult life with rock and roll royalty. His captivating solo act is a blend of keyboards, vocals, saxophone, flute, and accordion with a huge collection of pop, rock and soul dance favorites. His wide vocal range couples

Super Summer SignUp Party coming on Saturday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to noon at Centennial Park

ROBLES — Paso Robles

Recreation Services will host the Super Summer Sign-Up Party on Saturday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to noon at Centennial Park (600 Nickerson Drive). This free community event will provide early bird in-person registration for summer swimming lessons as well as registration for all summer camps and classes for children and teens.

Families will receive one free public swim pool pass for use at the city’s pools this summer for every camp or class registration processed at the event

with absolute mastery of his instruments to provide a one-of-akind experience.

July 21: RIFF TIDE — A classic dance band bringing surf, rock, funk, and soul much more to every gig! With locally renowned musicians Steven J. Eddy on bass, Mikie Antonette on drums, Debi Red on vocals, and legendary guitar man, Steve Conrad.

July 22: John Pemberton — Renowned country music artist John Pemberton has been captivating audiences since the age of 5, with notable accomplishments including being named CCR Radio’s Male Vocalist of the Year in 2014. His latest releases are currently available on popular streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music.

July 23: Bad Obsession — They have been rocking the Central Coast for almost a decade. With a great mix of classic rock, country, and dance hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and beyond.

July 24: WhoseHouseIsThis? — A four-piece indie rock band from Lompoc that have been playing together since early high school. They write, record, and release their music themselves, and love to cover classic rock music and contemporary indie rock music.

July 25: Cloudship — A Central California-based rock duo fusing alt-rock, soul, psychedelic, blues, and progressive music.

July 26:  Unfinished Business — Specializing in the best and most popular music of all time: 1960s rock, pop, and soul by artists such as The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Rolling Stones, Creedence Clearwater Revival, various Motown, and Memphis soul artists, and more. The band consists of Ed Miller on lead guitar and vocals, Stan Harrison on keyboards, Mike Dias on bass and vocals, and Bill Wolf on drums and vocals.

July 27: Neighborhood Katz — Musical nerds and lifelong professionals in the music industry. They’re passionate and ener-

(a $5 value/each). Online registration for summer swim lessons will begin on Monday, May 13, at prcity.com/ recreationonline.

Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the event to enjoy a variety of free activities and giveaways provided

by the city’s recreation instructors and local vendors including: Hands-on science exploration presented by Science Dipity’s Tim Baker

• Music, movement, and mindfulness activities with Vanessa Orr of YaYa

the Beast” with three performances on Mother’s Day Weekend: Saturday, May 11, at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday (Mother’s Day) at 2 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, on the campus of Cal Poly. This event is intended for audiences of all demographics, ages, and especially families with children.

This performance marks the first “grand production” of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” (which should not be confused with the opera of the same

getic with a wide range of styles from timeless classic rock, Motown, R&B, soul, pop, funk, and country.

July 28: Critical Mass — Features a diverse pallet of music that moves seamlessly through genres of rock, pop, country, and soul from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and on into the 2000s. The vocal strength of the band is rich with multiple layers of melodic harmonies, backed up with the sounds of the keyboards, trombone, and saxophone. The 2024 California Mid-State Fair runs July 17 through July 28 and this year’s theme is “Wide Open Spaces!”

Yoga (9 to 11 a.m.)

• Meet author Vanessa Salas and purchase a signed copy of her children’s picture book “Calm McYogi’s Farm” (9 to 11 a.m.)

Paper crafts with Amanda Streamland of Central Coast Craft Parties

Make a Mother’s Day card with Art Park’s Mindy Dierks

• Shoot a hoop and kick a soccer goal with the coaches from Youth Evolution Activities

• Shorin-Ryu Karate demonstrations

Sneak peek for “Zookeeper Training Camp” and “Spray Paint Art Camp” with West Coast Creative Academy’s Kristin Scott Brick Building with Lego Camp activity table from 9-10:30 a.m. with instructor Stormy Capalare

• Games, activities, prizes and summer reading information from Paso

title by Phillip Glass) in addition to the first opera company on the West Coast to produce a Disney musical at a grand scale.

Robles City Library

• Meet members of the Paso Robles

Emergency Services team and explore one of the city’s emergency vehicles

Free balloon creations from your favorite mermaid

Complimentary treats including Paradise Shaved Ice and fresh popcorn

The city’s aquatics staff will be available during the event to answer questions about swim lessons and assist parents in selecting the perfect lessons for their child. Information about the summer swim lesson and aquatics program schedule can be viewed at prcity.com/aquatics. To view and register for all summer classes and camps for children and teens please visit prcity.com/ recreationonline.

An all-star cast is led by Hillary Maiberger as Belle from the national and international Broadway tours, and Grammy Award winner John Laird as Cogsworth. Additional cast from across the US include Grant Garry (Beast), Eric McConnell (Gaston), Aaron Ellis (LeFou), Mandi Barrus (Mrs. Potts), Greg Gorrindo (Lumiere), Zanna Wyant (Babette), Eva Alhade (Chip), and Jim Brescia (Mosier D’Arque). The production features expansive sets, vivid costumes, magical effects, and a cast of over 100. OperaSLO’s production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is stage-directed by Zach Johnson, choreographed by Drew Silvaggio, with the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra conducted by Brian Asher Alhade. Tickets can be purchased at pacslo.org or by phone at (805) 756-4849 For more information on OperaSLO, visit operaslo.org

Must! Charities launches Leadership Alliance pilot project

Initiative aims to provide in-depth professional and personal development to local nonprofit leaders

NORTH COUNTY — Must! Charities, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities and fostering positive change, is proud to announce the launch of the Must! Charities Leadership Alliance. This innovative initiative aims to provide in-depth

professional and personal development to local nonprofit leaders, thereby enhancing their leadership skills and fostering collaboration within the community.

The Leadership Alliance, guided by the motto “Empowering leaders. Building community,” is poised to deliver a transformative program aimed at supporting local nonprofit executives. Through a blend of monthly group sessions and one-on-one coaching, participants will have the opportunity to build relationships, address challenges, refine ideas, and develop strategies for organizational success.

“At Must! Charities, we understand the vital role that nonprofit organizations play in shaping our community’s future,” said Becky Gray, executive director at Must! Charities. “Through

CONTACT INFO

P.O. Box 3120, Atascadero, CA 93423 (805)712-6356 atascaderogreyhound foundation.org

the Leadership Alliance, we are committed to investing in the leaders who drive these organizations forward, fostering collaboration, and ultimately, amplifying their impact on our region.”

The need for such a program is evident in the statistics. With nearly 2,000 nonprofit organizations in San Luis Obispo County alone, employing over 9,000 people and contributing significantly to the local economy, the demand for skilled and effective leadership is more critical than ever. Many nonprofit leaders face challenges such as staff turnover, burnout, and a lack of resources, hindering their ability to effectively fulfill their organizations’ missions.

“In its pilot year, the Leadership Alliance will lay the foundation for a transformative oppor-

LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

tunity for nonprofit leaders,” Gray added. “Our work with this initial group will help us determine future programming with the goal of adding more leadership groups in 2025.”

To find out more, visit mustcharities.org

About: The Atascadero Greyhound Foundation has been serving the Atascadero community for more than 20 years, gradually adding more events that serve its mission. We have grown, and continue to give because of the generous donors, sponsors and participants of our events. Our events are a benefit to the community in healthy activity — either athletically, musically, educationally, or in the fight against addiction. Donations: Our support comes from generous donors and sponsors. To make a difference, visit: lighthouseatascadero.org

ALF Food Pantry

OUR MISSION: ALF Food Pantry is dedicated to providing nutritious groceries to the food-insecure residents of the communities we serve. ALF Food Pantry (formerly known as Atascadero Loaves and Fishes) is celebrating 40 years of service to our community, providing groceries to families and individuals. The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce honored ALF as the 2024 Community Organization of the Year. With an all-volunteer workforce, we distributed nearly 600,000 pounds of food in 2023, the equivalent of 360,000 meals. We provide quality fresh and shelf-stable ingredients to food-insecure people in Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Creston, and California Valley. Clients have increased by 20% each year since 2020 and food costs are dramatically higher.

Atascadero, CA 93442 (805)461-1504 contact@alffoodpantry.org alffoodpantry.org Monday - Friday 1 pm - 3 pm

Donations: We need your help to allow us to continue our vital work. Donate today using our QR code or mail a check to ALF Food Pantry, 5411 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422.

United Way of San Luis Obispo County

EDUCATION. INCOME. COMMUNITY.

CONTACT INFO (805) 541-1234 unitedwayslo.org

CONTACT INFO

Offices in Atascadero, Paso Robles & SLO treeoflifepsc.com (805) 543-6000

CONTACT INFO

1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3870 prcity.com

CONTACT INFO

Operation Surf 80 San Francisco St. Avila Beach, CA (805) 544-7873 info@operationsurf.org operationsurf.org

CONTACT INFO

6875 Union Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3751 redwingshorse sanctuary.org

United Way of San Luis Obispo County’s programs deliver the education and resources that can help families succeed, in the present and for the next generation. Our work is centered on three impact areas that give people the best start for a successful life: Early Childhood Education, Family Financial Stability and Community Strengthening. Please join us! Together we can do our part to make a stronger community in SLO County that benefits us all.

DONATE: Invest in lasting change through a charitable donation at unitedwayslo.org/donate

VOLUNTEER: Find a volunteer opportunity that fits you at unitedwayslo.org/volunteer

TREE OF LIFE Pregnancy Care Center

WOMEN. HEALTH. LIFE

Tree of Life has been helping women and families in our community for over 39 years. All services are FREE and confidential. Women facing pregnancy decisions can find compassion, hope, positive options, and practical help from our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Our goal is to provide resources to assist a woman in choosing life for her baby and then to parent or place for adoption. We also offer compassionate help for women struggling with the mental and emotional effects of a previous abortion. Donations: We’re grateful that all of our support comes from generous individuals here in our community.

Friends of the Paso Robles Library

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Support the Library through a Friends of the Library membership, starting as low as $10/year. The Friends of the Library appreciates donations, which are either added to the Library’s collection or used to generate considerable funds toward the purchase of new books, library materials, programs, services, etc. Support the Library in a 100% volunteer-run retail environment. We are seeking volunteers to assist with Gift Shop sales, book donation sorting, and to provide book sale support. Due to limited storage space and staff, we are only able to accept two boxes or two bags of materials per household per day. Cash donations always welcome!

BOARD MEETINGS: Call (805) 237-3870 for information

Operation Surf

MISSION

Our mission is to channel the healing powers of the ocean to restore hope, renew purpose, and revitalize community. Operation Surf’s curriculum-based programs aim to inspire injured military and veterans to seek wellness in all aspects of their lives while providing the necessary resources, tools, and peer-to-peer support to continue this mindset indefinitely. By staying true to our core values of care, inclusion, commitment, integrity, and communication, we change participants’ lives – one wave

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

For information about making donations, adoptions, etc, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.com. For upcoming events, visit facebook.com/pg/redwingshorses/events

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Redwings is always looking for volunteers to help us provide the highest standard of care for our horses and burros. You do not need to have any prior horse experience to volunteer at Redwings. If you would like to work with our horses, the first step is to take a Volunteer Training Class. This class covers sanctuary rules, basic safe horsemanship skills, and an introduction to some of the horses that you will be working with. After completion of the class you are welcome to come volunteer and help with the horses any time during our volunteer hours. Volunteer hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 8am to 3:30pm, and we are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Note: We do not allow volunteers to ride the horses at Redwings. There are other ways to get involved and volunteer at Redwings too. We have opportunities to help in our rose and memorial garden, volunteering in the office, helping with events and fundraising, and more. Please submit the form below to schedule a volunteer training or contact our office: info@redwingshorsesanctuary.org or (805) 237-3751.

Atascadero Elks Lodge

CONTACT INFO 1516 El Camino Real,  Atascadero, Ca 93422 805-466-3557 www.elks2733.org

Elks have contributed over $1,000,000 to local community-based programs, non-profits, youth groups, local sports teams, programs for handicapped and needy children, patriotic programs, veterans’ programs and many, many community activities. Our mission as Elks is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize our belief in God; to promote the welfare of our community; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and to cultivate good fellowship.

We have a full calendar of events and activities for our members.

To learn more or to join us please contact us at (805)466-3557, visit the Lodge at 1516 El Camino Real, follow-us on Facebook or visit our website at: elks2733.org.

PERSPECTIVE

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WORSHIP DIRECTORY

ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL

8205 Curbaril Ave. (corner of Curbaril & Atascadero Ave.): Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. Ted Mort, Pastor. (805) 466-0175. atascaderogospelchapel.org

Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living A New Thought Spiritual Community. Living the Consciously Awakened Life. Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue Sunday 10:00am at the Pavilion 9315 Pismo Way, Atascadero (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org

St. William’s Catholic Church 6410 Santa Lucia Road, Atascadero, CA (805) 466-0849 www. stwilliams.org Weekday Masses : 10:30 AM Saturday Vigil Mass: 4:30 PM Sunday Masses: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM Spanish

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH

9925 Morro Road, Atascadero; "The Church on the Hill"; An independent church committed to the teaching of God's Word.; Praise and Prayer–10 a.m.; Morning Worship–11 a.m.; Evening Worship–6 p.m.; Wednesday Prayer–6:30 p.m.; Nursery care and children's classes provided.; Pastor Jorge Guerrero; (805) 461-9197.

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH

535 Creston Road., Paso Robles ; (805) 238-3549 ; Dr. Gary M. Barker, Pastor; Goal of church: To teach Believers to love God and people.; Sundays: 9 a.m. Sunday School; 10 a.m. Fellowship; 10:30 a.m. Service; 6 p.m. Eve Service; Wednesdays: 7 p.m. prayer meeting.

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA

A place of hope! Join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 A.M. Services are also streamed on our YouTube channel, Hope Lutheran Church Atascadero. We offer Sunday School for all ages after worship. Learn more at ourhopelutheran.net. 8005 San Gabriel Road, Atascadero. 805.461.0430. office@ourhopelutheran.org.

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER-LCMS

4500 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 466-9350; Morning Bible class at 9 a.m. Sunday; Coffee and Sunday Worship with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. Sunday; Thursday morning Bible class 10 a.m. followed by refreshments and fellowship; Developmentally disabled Bible class 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings; redeemeratascadero.org; redeemeratascadero@gmail.com; Pastor Wayne Riddering.

PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC

We honor ancient scriptures, responding to God’s contemporary call to be just and kind.; Join us for Worship Sunday, 10 a.m.; Church School Sunday, 10:15 a.m.; Coffee Fellowship 11 a.m.; Men’s Bible Study, Wednesday, 8 a.m.; Women’s Bible Study, Friday, 10 a.m.; Youth Group; 1301 Oak St., Paso Robles; (805) 238-3321.

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

940 Creston Road, Paso Robles; has Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m; For more information, call the church at (805) 238-3702. Ext. 206.

ATASCADERO FOURSQUARE CHURCH–FATHER’S HOUSE

2100 Ramona Road. Sunday service at 10am. Will & Lori Barrow, Pastors; (805) 466-3191; fathershouseafc.com

ABIDE CALVARY ATASCADERO

4500 El Camino Ave (Downstairs, Rear Parking Lot) // info@ abideatascadero.org. Sunday Service at 9am, Children’s Ministry provided for ages 2yrs–6th grade. Pastors Chris Vanoli & Ben Eisenman // Love God, Love Others // Abiding closely with Jesus and teaching others to do the same.

THE REVIVAL CENTER

A division of Alpha Beth Ministries; 3850 Ramada Drive (corner of Ramada and Cow Meadow), Paso Robles; 805-434-5170; Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz; a charismatic non-denominational fellowship; Reaching People, Building Homes; Sundays 10am, Wednesday 7pm; alphabeth@tcsn.net, www.alphabeth.org; Instagram @the_ revival_center

COMMUNITY CHURCH OF ATASCADERO, UCC 5850 Rosario Ave. Service 10 a.m. (in person and on Zoom) Pastor Heather Branton (805) 466-9108 atascaderoucc.org

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH

820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 1 p.m.-5 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times; Daily Mass- 8:30 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass 5 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 1 p.m. & 6 p.m. Father Rodolfo Contreras.

Beer, potato salad, and olive oil

The Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association will present the 2024 Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival this Saturday, May 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the Paso Robles City Park. There will be arts, crafts, jewelry, olive and lavender demonstrations, and olive oil tasting. Admission is free.

Also on this Saturday be sure to attend the Mother’s Day Spring Market at the Atascadero Printery, 6351 Olmeda Avenue in Atascadero from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.There will be the return of the lasagna drive-up dinners so be sure to get your order in by the 9th. And Quester’s will once again be selling their cut flower bouquets in cute vases,

You can tell a lot about people by what’s in their pockets. You might find a horseshoe nail in a farrier’s pocket, a pipe that doesn’t smell like tobacco in a doper’s, a duck call in a hunter’s vest, throwing rocks in a juvenile delinquent’s and an assortment of buckles, snaps and latigo in the apron pocket of a saddlemaker. The back-pocket-wallet of a Hell’s Angel will be hooked with a chain, but it’s the plethora of unmarked thousand dollar bills in the pockets of a Congressman that ought to be more securely tied down. Easy come, easy go.

When I was flying all over the country, my favorite way to pass the time was to sit next to the X-ray machine where TSA employees asked flyers to empty their pockets. In smalltown airports like Redding and Redmond, I took a seat on the other side of a glass wall and observed. It was like looking through people’s trash, only legal.

TBe included in the Atascadero News & Paso Robles Press Worship Directory for an entire year at $175

a perfect gift for “mom.” More gifts will be available for purchase from other vendors. To order a lasagna dinner, visit atascaderoprintery.org. Dinners for four include meat or vegetarian lasagna, Brian’s Bread, and salad for $45.

The fabulous and fun summer concert series provided by the Atascadero Community Band kicks off on Tuesday, June 11, at 7 p.m. Take your lawn chairs and snacks and enjoy 10 weeks of free band music every Tuesday night from 7 to 8 p.m.

As a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization of area musicians, the Atascadero Community Band is dedicated to enriching the lives of the local community. Their mission is to spread joy through music and I would say “mission accomplished” every time they play.

The recipe this week is dedicated to the beer, potato salad and olive oil lovers in our area. I’m sure you’re going to like this one.

Warm Potato Salad with Beer Dressing

Ingredients for Potato Salad:

2 1/2 pounds red potatoes

1/2 cup finely chopped mild red onion

• 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley

• 2 tablespoons chopped chives

Ingredients for Beer Dressing:

6 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup finely chopped onions

• 3/4 cup lager

• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions for Potato Salad:

Cook potatoes in boiling salted water about 20-25 minutes. Remove and drain. When able to handle potatoes, slice unpeeled, into 1/4 inch rounds. While still warm, gently mix with onions, parsley, and beer

What’s in your pockets?

It would make a great TV show. Host Samuel L. Jackson would ask contestants, “What’s in your pockets?” And then a celebrity panel would guess what they did for a living.

Ranchers were always easy to identify by the alfalfa leaves and stems that fell out of their pockets onto the conveyor belt. In the front pocket of their longsleeved shirt, you’d find a file of auction market cards chronicling their livestock purchases dating back 17 years. There’d also be a stub pencil, tally book, reading glasses in a soft case, scraps of paper, toothpick, a fouryear-old speeding ticket, Maalox or Tums, a blue scour bolus, and nary a sign of coin or cash. All their liquid assets were tied up in cows. Surprisingly I rarely saw a rancher pull out a comb, probably because most ranchers, if they had any experience at all, had lost most of their hair.

It was easy to tell the ranchers from the cowboys because of what was NOT in the cowboy’s pockets. There’d be no keys because you don’t need a key to start a horse, they rarely owned a home and cowboys usually don’t need a key to

access their gold, cash, or will in their safe deposit box because they don’t have any of those things. The only thing they owned that would set off the alarms would be a can of Copenhagen, a pair of wire cutters on their belt and a trophy buckle they won at a ranch rodeo for cow mugging. You’d also find a thick stack of lottery tickets which is the only way a cowboy is gonna get rich and buy his own spread.

I was always amazed at what people no longer carried. As a teenager, I always had at least two necessities in the pockets of my jeans: a pocket watch with my name engraved on the back and a threebladed Case knife, both of which were rights of passage when I was young. When the day came you bought your first knife you became a man. Now days, if you flash either of those things in an airport you’ll be body slammed to the ground by security cops and arrested for being a terrorist. They’d think your knife was a weapon and your pocket watch was some sort of timing device, which it really was. Fewer and fewer people carry or wear watches these days because

Being the light

he journey toward our most authentic self begins by exploring the depths of our inner world. This journey can be challenging at times, as we may encounter our own fears, doubts, and past traumas. However, through keen observation, boundless curiosity, and the courage to delve into self-discovery, we reveal the inherent magnificence that has always resided within us. It’s a journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to learn and grow. Remember, self-discovery is a process, and it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself along the way.

Within you lies a radiant gemstone, already shining bright; this gemstone is your highest self. It may be covered with the metaphorical dirt of false beliefs, misunderstandings of Truth, and lies others have told us or we have been telling ourselves. I remember a time when I believed I couldn’t achieve my dreams, but through self-discovery, I realized that was just a false belief. I was able to sweep the dirt off, excavate that radiant gem, polish it, and keep shining it brightly outwardly and inwardly. This journey of self-discovery is not just a concept, it’s a personal experience that I’ve lived and continue to live every day.

Novelist Edith Wharton said, “There are two ways of spreading light: To be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”

Being the candle involves more than just illuminating your own path. It’s about

dressing. Do not over-mix or potatoes may break up. Taste for salt and pepper. garnish with chopped chives. Serve warm or at room temperature. Directions for Beer Dressing: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until just soft, about 5 minutes. Add lager, vinegar, and sugar and boil for 5 minutes. Put into a food processor with mustard. With motor running, slowly pour in remaining 4 tablespoons olive oil. Taste for salt and pepper. Makes about 1 cup, enough for 2 1/2 pounds of potatoes. Note: Be sure to dress potatoes while still warm so they can absorb the dressing. Try dressing over cold cooked vegetables such as cauliflower. Diced fried bacon or smoked sausage would also be a good addition.

Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com

they get the time, and everything else, from their smartphones. If you observe a modern young person, you’ll see they have more pockets than ever, and their backpacks runneth over. In many respects, they are like turtles in that they carry everything they own with them.  Besides watches and knives, another product category that must have taken a beating with the rise of smart phones is Cross pens. They used to be handed out by corporations to good customers or employees marking 30 years of service. Many a graduate was honored to receive a Cross-matching gold-filled pen and pencil set. Not anymore, though, as cellphones, iPads, and laptops have rendered pens, pencils, and notepads redundant pieces of ancient technology. Although I’d like to see the technology buffs try to cut a steak at a bull sale barbecue with their smartphone or castrate a bull calf with an iPad.

Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@ leepittsbooks.com.

directly acting to create positive change or bring light into the world. Being the candle means initiating positive change. You lead by example, championing causes, spreading light, and shaping the world through kindness, innovation, and advocacy. You take personal responsibility for your impact and strive to be the change you wish to see in the world. Your light has the power to ignite others, to inspire them to take action, and to create a ripple effect of positive change.

Being a mirror that reflects light is not just about seeing the good in others. It’s about amplifying it, making it shine even brighter. As a mirror you reflect the positive qualities in others. Just as a mirror reflects light, you can amplify the light of others by sharing their achievements, supporting them, and embodying their positive traits. By doing so, you contribute to making the world a better place. As a mirror that reflects light, you amplify the positivity around you and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can create a world that shines with the collective light of our highest selves. Whether you are being the candle, or the mirror doesn’t matter. One isn’t better than the other. What matters is that you are dancing in the light and being the light.   Now, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Imagine the radiant gemstone within you that is your highest self. Do you need to sweep some dirt off to uncover it? What can you do to make it sparkle again? And so it is.

Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue is an independent columnist for the Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at revelizabeth@awakeningways.org.

PASO ROBLES TEMPLETON ATASCADERO