Atascadero News • February 13, 2025 by 13 Stars Media

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero City Council met for its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 6 p.m. The meeting started with employee recognition for those who have been with the city for five-plus years.

“Tonight, I have the privilege of honoring the tenure of employees. As you know, this is the premiere place to work, and we have a wonderful culture and truly an employee family,” said City Manager Jim Lewis of Atascadero. “We like to recognize every five years our employees for their tenure and their incredible service to our city.”

Cody Ferris was celebrated for five years as a firefighter. Steve Stucky (police corporal) was honored for 10 years of service, along with Public Works Director Nick DeBar.

“Congratulations to you and your 10-year anniversary at the city. You made it to 10 years,” Lewis said to DeBar.

Kelly Arebalo was then honored for 25 years as the city’s administrative assistant at the Fire Department. She started her career as a public safety dispatcher in 1999. After spending 19 years in that role, she then applied for her current position.

Father and Daughter Sweetheart Dance

This year’s adorable theme was ‘Love You to the Moon and Back’

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — Atascadero’s Father and Daughter Sweetheart Dance has become a standing tradition for many a local family, and last weekend was no exception. The Friday, Feb. 7, event, which featured primarily daughters under 12 dancing the night away with their dads, sold out early. The dance on Saturday, Feb. 8, which was for the older crowd and their fathers, sold out closer to the event’s date. Both nights were filled with joy

and making more family memories.

“This is our seventh year with my oldest and three years for my little one,” said father Antonio Anaya.

“We can’t wait until the tickets come out. We buy them because we know it sells out quick. It’s always a big big day for us.”

“I really like it because it makes me feel closer to my dad,” said Antonio’s oldest daughter, Bella, about the dance as she held her little sister Bailey’s hand.

Both girls were in coordinating pink dresses that Bella said her mom had picked out for them.

“I hope it [the dance] never ends so I can bring them with my grandkids one day,” added Antonio.

This year’s theme, “Love You to the Moon and Back,” was shared with the first official Mother and

Celebrating the life of Dan ‘The Barber’ Phillips

Before his recent passing, Dan had cut hair in Atascadero for 63 years

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — The community was saddened to hear of the passing of its beloved Dan “The Barber” Phillips at the end of January. Dan and his wife Ramona moved to Atascadero 63 years ago, and a few months later, Phillips became one of Atascadero’s most well-loved barbers, which is where his moniker “Dan the Barber” so lovingly came from.

“We’ve been very happy here. We’ve been very happy. The people are wonderful and have been very kind to us. Dan has enjoyed every minute of being out in the barbershop talking with all of the wonderful people,” Ramona told Atascadero News

The barbershop, which Dan spent a large majority of his time in, is connected to the Phillips’ family home, so as Dan

headed into his 90s and continued to cut hair, his commute was short.

“It was wonderful. He didn’t have to drive. He just walked down the little few steps into the barbershop and put the open sign on. It just was very, very

wonderful,” added Ramona. Dan and Ramona were married in 1952 and spent over seven decades together in a beautiful relationship where they later raised two children, Denise (who sadly passed last year) and Daniel.

Son Dance, which took place on Friday, Jan. 31. And the new crowd of fathers and daughters enjoyed the theme just as much as the first group did.

Kelly McClendon and his daughter Ellie have been attending the dance for six years and look forward to it every year.

“It’s amazing. It’s amazing because every year it’s been growing on how many friends come with us, but we spend some time together since it’s a father/ daughter dance,” Ellie commented. “It’s amazing, I really enjoy it. It’s one of my favorite things that I like to have for my memories.”

“Same, I look forward to it every year,” added Kelly. The dance was held at the Pavillion on the

“It’s been wonderful. We just enjoyed being together for 72 years,” Ramona said of her marriage to Dan.

Keeping it old school, Dan would only charge $10 for a haircut at his shop, even though some of his clients tried to persuade him to raise his prices.

Ramona said that no matter what, Dan always decided to keep his haircut price at $10 and would be found telling his wife, “Ramona, I know times are hard.” And he said, “Ramona, we’re not rich, and maybe I should raise the price, but I just can’t.” However, many of his clients would always give him more than $10 for his services.

“Some of the people just came on a Saturday, and they would just all visit, and not everybody got a haircut. They just talked about whatever they wanted to talk about. Stories of all kinds. He told lots of stories,” added Ramona. “It was just a real wonderful place for people to come and meet and enjoy each other. Dan enjoyed his work. He loved to cut people’s hair, and he enjoyed the people. Dan was

North County Christian School to become Brookside Christian Academy this fall

ATASCADERO — It was recently announced that Atascadero’s North County Christian School (NCCS) will be changing its name starting in the 2025-26 school year to Brookside Christian Academy (BCA). Along with the name

In 2022, Ramona (left) and Dan Phillips were chosen as King and Queen of Colony Days. The two were married for 72 years before Dan’s death last month. Photo by Hayley Mattson/ATN

Daughters participate in choreography during the 20th Annual Father and Daughter Sweetheart Dance at the Pavilion on the Lake. Photo by Rick Evans/ATN

Lake and, like always, put on by the City of Atascadero, with Recreation Coordinator Ashley Zamora taking the lead on the event.

This year, Rena Riffel, who works at the Pavillion, was there to help Zamora keep the night’s festivities going.

She also commented that the Father and Daughter Sweetheart Dance reminded her of when she was a little girl growing up in

“The daughters, all the little kids are just so cute and excited. All the dads are so excited, and they’re all saying hi to each other. It’s just like a really good vibe,” said Riffel, of working on the event for the first time. “It’s giving me so much joy to see how happy the fathers with their daughters are. Showing up here. They’re all dressed up. I’m so impressed that so many of the dads dressed up like they’re going to a very formal event. In suits.”

Lewis said that Arebalo is the voice of the fire department and always provides excellent customer service. Fire Chief Casey Bryson was also celebrated for 25 years of service.

“Chief Casey Bryson has committed his entire career to the City of Atascadero, and we are a much better city because of his service,” stated Lewis. “The Chief began his career service with us as a cadet firefighter for the Atascadero High School work experience program in the early ’90s.”

In 1994, Bryson became a seasonal reserve firefighter and was promoted to a full-time firefighter in 1999. He was quickly promoted to fire engineer and then fire captain in 2004, and

he became a licensed paramedic. He was promoted to fire chief in 2017 after earning the trust of the department and the community.

“It’s been a privilege to work for the city for this long. All I can say is that you have some accomplishments to get to this level, but then once you’re here, it’s the people you have,” stated Bryson before thanking his staff.

Mayor Charles Bourbeau then thanked the employees who have been with the city for years and everyone currently serving the city.

“Everything we get done is because we have a good staff, so we really appreciate you,” he added.

Later, Deputy City Manager Lara Christensen addressed the council with a management report on an Award of a

a people person. He really liked people.”

Ramona went on to say that she’s been receiving lots of cards and flowers from the community and that some are being left in front of the barbershop. People have also been reaching out to her via the telephone. In fact, one of the notes came from First District Supervisor John Peschong. In the note, he said.

“I was so sorry to hear of Dan Phillips’ passing. He was a true pillar of Atascadero, and his barber shop was more than a business. It was a place where friendships were made and stories were shared. His presence and dedication to the community will not be forgotten. Keeping you in my prayers

change comes course changes, bringing back high school-level education, and the continuation of delivering faith-based learning to the North County.

“We are so grateful for the place NCCS has had in the community. We recognize this shift is possible largely to the trust the community has in the current school, and it is our greatest desire to steward that trust into this new season,” said NCCS Vice-Chairman and Secretary Amy Maskal.

NCCS has been a staple in private Christian-based education for almost 50 years in the community. The school has built an incredible legacy through all of its financial struggles, a drop in enrollment, and a new surge in enrolling students during the COVID19 pandemic. To get things back on track, NCCS teamed up with Concordis Education

Design-Build Entity Contract for the Public Safety Facilities Project. The council was previously shown a possible design build process in a workshop in early 2024.

The Public Safety Facilities Project has been a topic of discussion since before Measure D-20 was implemented by putting it on the ballot. It was placed on the ballot because the city needed to find funding solutions to address deficiencies in their public safety facilities, specifically Fire Station #1. Voters passed the measure and it started providing funding to move forward with the project.

“Fire Station #1 has been deficient administratively, operationally, structurally, to really meet the current and future public safety needs,” Christensen said. “There were tempo-

and wishing you comfort in the days ahead.”

Ramona said that she thought his note and all the others have been wonderful.

After hearing of his passing, Atascadero News took to social media to ask the community what they remembered most about our beloved “Dan the Barber.”

“I worked next door to him for 6 years. We had a connecting door from the barbershop to the office I was in, and I could hear his going on all day. Loved listening to all the banter & stories he shared with his and our mutual clients. Dan had a very infectious laugh,” said business neighbor Anita Ball. “Many of the world’s problems were solved in his shop. I became close to Dan and

Partners, which consults private Christian schools throughout the nation.

“NCCS/BCA has contracted with Concordis to offer support over the next 5-6 years,” stated Maskal. “They provide support for a wide range of things: some ‘back of house’ administrative functions, school board and technical document support, teacher training and curriculum support, classroom management support, and Head of School support and networking.”

Along with the upcoming name change for the 202526 school year, the school will also gain new colors and a new mascot, which is still to be determined and will become a Classical Christian Education (CCE) school.

“This is a return to the timetested roots of education that has produced the greatest minds our modern world has known,” Maskal added. “Classical Christian Education (CCE)

Atascadero and how the first dance she ever attended when she was 10 also took place at the Pavillion.

The DJ for both evenings was Manuel Medina of Medina Light Show Designs. The event was also sponsored by Cielo Ristorante, Lonely Oak Arts, Sylvester’s Burgers, Jimmy De Photography, and Boom and Grow.

The Father and Daughter Sweetheart Dance will be back for its 21st year on Feb. 6 and 7, 2026.

rary building improvements that were identified and completed in the late 1990s and 2012 with the intention that as funding became available, resources would go towards fixing or building a new fire station. This fire station was built in the early 1950s.”

Fire Station #2 was built in the 1980s, and it houses a smaller crew. However, it currently is not large enough to house the crew that operates out of it, nor is it meeting current building codes.

The Police Station was built in the 1960s and was originally a department store. All three buildings will stay on site.

“We started moving forward into the design-build procurement,” Christensen added. “Design-build procurement is a little bit different than what we’ve ever done here before. We

Ramona and will miss him dearly.”

Lorraine Hurst shared her love of Dan and his countless stories and also mentioned that Dan had cut her husband’s hair for over 40 years before his passing. Meanwhile, John Rickwald commented on how Dan would often accept an 18-pack of eggs for a haircut.

“Dan was a great man. I would stop by there [the barbershop] often just to talk along with others. Dan had a joke about if you could not pay for a haircut, you could leave one shoe. He said people walked out of the barbershop with one shoe. Now, every time I see one shoe, I think of him,” Rickwald also said.

Dan’s celebration of life will take place on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 10 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 2600 Ramona Road, which

teaches children how to think, not just what–all founded in the Word of God. In an age where social media and A.I. are unfathomable influences in how children process information, never before has discernment, trained in truth, been a more valuable character trait to develop in our children.”

Delving more into CCE, the upcoming BCA will also offer three levels of schooling on a weekly basis.

“Tuesday-Thursday will be the main academic days (‘Core’ schedule), and is the lowest level of enrollment offered to our families,” Maskal clarified. “Monday will be a ‘Core+’ day, where students will have the opportunity to work through assigned lab work over a teacher-directed, structured day. This will also be a day students can receive additional support to either reinforce or supplement instruction in the Core days. Fridays will be ‘Enrichment’ days, where extracurriculars of

typically do design bid where the city contracts with an architect team, an engineering team.

We do all of the designing with those teams. We do all the engineering. Once that’s all done, we then go out to bid for a contract, and the contractor comes in and builds it for us.”

Design-Build is a way to work with all of those groups collaboratively by the city contracting with one entity, and that entity goes out and hires the architect and the engineering teams.

The Design-Build contract was awarded to Vanir Constructions in August 2023. They went straight into helping the city uncover its space needs and developing bridging documents. In June 2024, they issued an RFQ, and an RFP was issued in August 2024. Proposals were received in November 2024. The

is where Dan attended church with Ramona.

“The military will be there because he served in Korea,” Ramona added. “If the weather permits, they’re going to do a flyover.”

“He just did want me to tell everybody thank you. How much he appreciated them coming into the barbershop. He said, ‘I especially want you to thank everybody,’” she concluded.

To learn more about Dan and Ramona and their life in Atascadero, follow the link below to the October 2022 issue of Atascadero News Magazine to read our article from when the couple were chosen as King and Queen of Colony Days: issuu.com/colonymagazine/ docs/atascadero_news_magazine_ october_2022

various sorts will be available. Students can choose to enroll in a three-, four-, or five-day program.”

By bringing in CCE teaching and learning, the new school, which will retain its current staff and board, will also feature smaller class sizes. Each class will feature 12 students to each teacher.

“One of the main shifts in CCE is how the classroom looks. There is a much higher level of involvement between the teacher and the students. Asking a teacher to engage at this level with a high-count classroom has proven to be difficult in schools that have gone before us. Twelve has been shown to be the golden number for a successful classroom experience for all,” said Maskal.

The ‘25-26 school year will also bring back the return of high school academics at BCA. High school students have not been included in the school’s curriculum since the graduating

city went into negotiations over the city’s budget with the F&H/ LDA team, which commenced in December 2024 and culminated in late January 2025. The cost breakdown after those negotiations is as follows: Fire Station No. 1 and EOC — $21,924,235

• Fire Station No. 2 — $4,927,672

• Police Headquarters — $ 4,220,411

• Total — $31,072,318

There are still building layouts that need to be finalized before the start of the project after the award is given.

In a unanimous vote, the council moved forward with awarding F&H construction to move forward with the project. The next Atascadero City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m.

class of 2020. Currently, NCCS features a preschool, elementary, and middle school, as well as its thrift store. At this time, it is unclear if the thrift store’s name will change, but as BCA will be a D.B.A. (doing business as) of NCCS, there is no legal requirement for a change.

As of Saturday, Feb. 1, registration is open for BCA for the ‘25-26 school year. Maskal stated that existing families at NCCS will have priority for re-enrollment spots but that every family, either new or existing, will be interviewed before officially registering.

“The hope we have for parents considering BCA would be this: if you are looking for a school that desires to come alongside you, to partner in raising children to truly know God and rise to meet the fullest extents of who they were created to be, shepherded in beauty and goodness and discipled in truth, then this is for you,” she added.

For new or existing parents with questions about enrollment, email info@brooksideacademy.com

“Our biggest hope for the school will be the cultural change. We hope and pray that the culture that is fostered by these changes will result in a group of young people who love one another as God has loved us,” concluded Maskal. “That, with the assurance of who they are in Christ and what things are true and beautiful, they would be ready to face a world dropping into increasing chaos. That we would be engaged with families, working together to educate and disciple their children to the fullest extent of who they were created to be.” NCCS hosted two town hall meetings on Thursday, Jan. 30, and Saturday, Feb. 8, at Atascadero Bible Church to discuss the changes. Interested parties can find the video for the Jan. 30 meeting here: youtube. com/live/zmyc4br9rcs

The dancing continued into the night at the 20th Annual Father and Daughter Sweetheart Dance. Photo by Rick Evans

Dan “The Barber” Phillips is shown in 2022, when he served as King for that year’s Colony Days. Phillips cut hair in Atascadero for over six decades before passing away at the end of January.

Photo by Hayley Mattson/ATN

PASO ROBLES

Valentine Movie Night to feature classic romance Movie lovers in Paso Robles are invited to a special Valentine Movie Night on Sunday, Feb. 16, at 7 p.m. at Park Cinemas. Hosted by the Main Street Association and Park Cinemas, the event will feature a screening of the 1959 romantic classic “For The First Time,” starring Mario Lanza as an opera singer whose life changes after falling in love with a deaf woman while on vacation in Italy. Tickets are $15 (plus a convenience fee) and include popcorn, chocolate, and a soda. This nostalgic film experience is the perfect way to celebrate love and cinema in the heart of Downtown Paso Robles.

The event is a fundraiser for the Main Street Association, and attendees are encouraged to share the experience with friends and family. For more information, call the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street office at (805) 238-4103 or purchase tickets online at parkcinemas.com

Paso Robles Joint Unified School District hosts first Black History Celebration

The Paso Robles Joint Unified School District is excited to host its first annual Black History Celebration on Sunday, Feb. 16, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Paso Robles High School Performing Arts Center, located at 801 Niblick Road.

This free community event will offer a diverse range of activities for all ages, celebrating Black history and culture.Attendees can look forward to an African mask-making workshop for children, an inspirational dance performance, an African drum circle, and a special reading by local author Jasmine Pickett from her book “The Adventures of Jaz and Lulu: Chasing the Moon.” Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing.

Additionally, the event will feature participation from the Paso Robles High School Black Student Union and the Cal Poly Black Student Union. The program will include inspirational words from Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Elmoore, Cal Poly provost and executive vice president for academic affairs.

Paso Robles City Library February classes and events

The Paso Robles City Library is offering a variety of engaging events and services throughout February 2025. From tax assistance and legal aid to book discussions and crafting, there’s something for everyone in the community.

The AARP Tax Assistance program will be available from March 1 to April 15, offering free tax preparation for individuals with non-complex returns. The library is one of nine locations in San Luis Obispo County hosting this service. Appointments can be scheduled online at ccfreetax.org or by calling (805) 931-6308. For those seeking legal guidance, California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) will be at the library on Feb. 18, providing free legal aid to low-income residents in areas like housing, employment, education, and health. No appointment is necessary.

Creative minds can join the Crafting with Adults: Handmade Doll workshop on March 5 from 6 to 7 p.m. Participants (ages 16 and over) will receive supplies and guidance to sew their own customizable doll. Registration is required from Feb. 14 to 28.

The Socrates Café, a monthly discussion group, will meet on Feb. 18 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to explore the topic: How do relationships influence us?

Registration is required. Additionally, the Book

NEWS BRIEFS

Group will discuss “The Nickel Boys” by Colson Whitehead on Feb. 19from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Families and individuals can enjoy the No One Eats Alone Day Ice Cream Social on Feb. 24 from 3 to 5 p.m., aimed at fostering friendships and ending social isolation.

The Cinema Club will screen “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” on Feb. 28 from 2 to 4:30 p.m., followed by a discussion. Registration is required.

Regular children’s story times take place throughout the week, with activities tailored to different age groups. The library will be closed on Feb. 17 for Presidents’ Day. Located at 1000 Spring St., the library is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Paso Robles Fire Department to conduct training at old Georgia Brown school site

Beginning Monday, Feb. 10, the Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services Department will utilize the old Georgia Brown School site, located at 525 36th St., for various fire department training drills.

Over the next month, residents can expect to see posted signs in the area announcing these training events. There will also be an increased presence of fire department apparatus.

The training exercises will involve hose pulling and ladder use. No live fire or destructive training will take place at this location. The Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services Department would like to thank the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District for this opportunity.

Low angle rope rescue class scheduled at Paso Robles City Fire Station 3

The North SLO County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is hosting a Low Angle Rope Rescue class on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Paso Robles City Fire Station 3 (2924 Union Road, Paso Robles).

This free training is designed to introduce Teen CERT members, parents, guardians, guests, and other CERT members to fundamental rope rescue skills. Students will learn about rescue scene organization, rope identification, knot tying, haul systems, and victim packaging.

Instructors John Spooner and Anthony Trutanich will lead the course, which will take place rain or shine. Attendees must bring their CERT gear and provide a Teen CERT Program Waiver. Snacks and beverages will be available.

To register, email northslocountycert@gmail. com with your contact information.

City Council reappoints planning commissioner and appoints new member

The Paso Robles City Council has reappointed Mark Koegler to the Planning Commission and appointed Sharon Roden as a new commissioner during a special meeting on February 5.

The City Council interviewed five applicants to fill two open positions on the Planning Commission. Koegler, who will begin his third term, was reappointed based on his strong service record and ability to represent a broad spectrum of community interests. A retired city planner and landscape architect from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Koegler moved to Paso Robles in 2018 and has since contributed valuable expertise to the commission. Roden was newly appointed to the Planning Commission, bringing fresh perspectives and a commitment to the growth and development of Paso Robles. Roden is a Cal Poly graduate and is a fifth-generation native of San Luis Obispo County. She served on the APG Board of Direc-

tors from 2015 to 2020 and also served on the Paso Robles City Council from October 2023 to December 2024. Her local experience and deep connection to the community will serve her well in her new role.

Commissioner Roden’s first Planning Commission meeting will be on March 11.

ATASCADERO

Temporary detour from Southbound El Camino Real to Traffic Way to begin Tuesday

Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 11, motorists on southbound El Camino Real will encounter a temporary detour at Traffic Way. The detour will not begin prior to 8:30 a.m. to minimize disruptions for school drop-off and commuters. Drivers will be detoured onto Traffic Way, then onto Palma Avenue, then onto West Mall where they can re-enter southbound El Camino Real. There are no closures or detours for northbound El Camino Real and Entrada Ave. will remain open.

The repairs are expected to take a day to complete and once finished, the southbound section of El Camino Real will reopen to traffic. The temporary detour is needed to allow Atascadero Mutual Water Company to repair a damaged underground water service line.

Message and directional signs will be posted to guide motorists along the temporary detour route.

Access to businesses along the closed section of El Camino will remain open and free parking is available throughout Downtown. The community is encouraged to stay informed about ongoing ECR project updates and traffic advisories by following the City on Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and X and visiting Atascadero.org/ECRProject

Community members can also sign up for construction news and alerts at Atascadero.org/ News-List

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Cody Johnson concert at 2025 Mid-State Fair sells out

The highly anticipated Cody Johnson concert at the 2025 California Mid-State Fair has officially sold out. The country star will take the stage on Saturday, July 19, in the Chumash Grandstand Arena at the Paso Robles Event Center, as part of the Michelob Ultra Concert Series. Fans are also treated to an opening performance by Randall King at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets, which went on sale Friday, Feb. 7, were quickly snapped up by eager concertgoers. Prices started at $67 and ranged up to $182, reflecting the high demand for Johnson’s live performances. Cody Johnson, hailed as “just might be the future of real country music,” has built a reputation for selling out venues nationwide. With an extensive catalog of hit albums, including “Leather Deluxe Edition,” “Leather,” “Human The Double Album,” and “Ain’t Nothin’ To It,” Johnson has amassed 42 Gold and Platinum certifications, nearly 8 billion global streams, and three No. 1 singles.

Opening act Randall King, a West Texas native known for his traditional honky-tonk sound, brought his signature style to the stage. With hits like “You In A Honky Tonk,” “Hey Cowgirl,” and “Mirror, Mirror,” King has cemented his place as a rising star in country music.

Royal Tea Party fundraiser to support L.A. fire victims

A Wish Your Heart Makes invites all princes and princesses to a Royal Tea Party Fundraiser at

the Madonna Inn on Feb. 23, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Proceeds from the event will go toward helping those affected by the Los Angeles fires.

Guests will enjoy an enchanting afternoon with their favorite princesses, featuring tea, cake, and a variety of royal activities. Attendees are encouraged to dress up and bring their favorite tea cup to fully immerse in the experience.

Tickets are $25 per person and must be purchased by February 20. To reserve your spot, visit awishyourheartmakes.com

Those without PayPal can call to book with a credit or debit card. The event will take place at the Madonna Inn, located at 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo.

Former SLO County deputy probation officer charged with grand theft, embezzlement

Fallyn Sierra Rollins, a former San Luis Obispo County deputy probation officer, has been charged with multiple felonies for allegedly embezzling over $100,000 from the San Luis Obispo County Probation Peace Officers’Association while serving as its treasurer.

According to the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office, the alleged theft occurred between February 2023 and August 2024, during which Rollins had exclusive control over the association’s checking account, debit card, and financial records. The organization, a nonprofit supporting Probation Department employees, reported the suspected theft as soon as it was discovered, prompting an investigation by the San Luis Obispo Police Department.

The criminal complaint against Rollins includes nine counts of felony grand theft by embezzlement, citing dozens of fraudulent transactions over an 18-month period.

On Feb. 4, a Superior Court judge issued an arrest warrant for Rollins with bail set at $1.18 million. However, after a court hearing, Judge Barry LaBarbara reduced bail to $100,000 with conditions including electronic monitoring, restrictions on financial work, and residency limitations to San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara Counties.

Rollins is being monitored by the Santa Barbara County Probation Department while on pretrial release. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 24, in Department 3 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court.

San Luis Obispo Public Health Department advises public to avoid ocean water

The County of San Luis Obispo Public Health Department is advising the public to avoid ocean water contact during, and at least three days following, significant rainstorms — such as the recent storm.

Rainstorm runoff is known to transport high levels of disease-causing organisms such as bacteria, viruses and protozoa from the watershed and urban areas to the ocean. Such organisms carried into the ocean can cause skin, respiratory, and intestinal problems. Young children, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable to these waterborne pathogens.

Surfers, swimmers and others are advised to avoid contact with ocean water during this period, especially in areas close to creeks, rivers, storm drains and other runoff outlets that empty into the ocean.

For more information about beach water quality, please visit the Public Health Department Beach Water Quality website at SurfSafeSLO. org, or call the Ocean Water Monitoring Program Telephone Hotline at (805) 788-3411

While PG&E is pursuing the steps to continue operating Diablo Canyon Power Plant until 2030 as directed by the state, PG&E will continue to provide opportunities for community input regarding future decommissioning plans and potential future uses of the Diablo Canyon site.

PG&E is currently in regulatory proceedings for both extended operations and decommissioning.

The Diablo Canyon Decommissioning Engagement Panel (Panel) was created to foster open and frequent dialogue between members of the local community and PG&E on topics regarding the site’s eventual decommissioning, originally planned to begin in 2025 but now slated to begin in 2030 or later. The Panel will focus on decommissioning related issues and not ongoing continued operations.

There are currently open positions on the Engagement Panel subject for appointment or reappointment consistent with the Panel's Charter. The application period runs until March 4, 2025.

Visit pge.com/engagementpanel to apply.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Daniel Phillips on January 29, 2025, at the age of 91. Daniel, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a testament to kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for

Norma D. Roots, 93, of Paso Robles, passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at her assisted Living home. She was known for her kindness, compassion, love, and loyalty to her family and friends. Norma was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, where she lived with her mother, father, and two sisters. She also had a

In Loving Memory

those around him.

Daniel was born on April 2, 1933, in Bakersfield, California. He was the youngest of six children and grew up in a close-knit family that valued hard work and integrity. He spent his early childhood growing up in the small oil town of Fellows by Taft. His father moved the family to southern California to work in the oil fields. He attended Brea High School, where he was a standout student and athlete in football and basketball. He graduated in 1951. Following his high school graduation, Daniel followed in his father’s footsteps and began working in the oil industry. Then, the Korean War happened, and Daniel was drafted in 1953. Daniel served 3 years in the Army and one

brother who grew up in Norway. In 1952, Norma and her parents moved to California, where her sister Lillian was already living. They settled in the San Fernando Valley. A couple of years later, Norma met Robert Roots at a New Year’s Eve party. After a whirlwind romance, Bob and Norma married eight months later, on August 27, 1955. They raised three children and were married for 66 years until Bob’s death in May of 2022.

Norma was working at a bank when she met Bob. She enjoyed making her own money and bought a new 1955 Chevy Bel-Air right off the showroom floor. When the kids were a little older, she started working in real estate. Norma always said that her biggest accomplishment was marrying Bob and raising her three children. She was also

Kand a half years overseas in Korea.

After the war, Daniel came home and began his family life with his wife Ramona and baby girl Denise. While working in the oil industry, he decided to go to barber school. In 1961, Daniel and his family moved to Atascadero, where he opened Dan’s Barber Shop. Daniel remained at the same location for 63 years, giving haircuts to generations of men and women.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Daniel’s greatest joy came from his family. He married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Ramona Jean, in 1953, and together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. Daniel and Ramona were blessed with two

proud to become a US citizen on June 23, 1967.

Norma was a great cook and had dozens of cookbooks. She was famous at the neighborhood potlucks for her delicious chicken dishes, lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, cheesecake, and Tex-Mex dip. Her husband Bob was a fireman and often had four days off in a row, so they would do a lot of mini-camping trips, usually at Carpinteria Beach in their little trailer. They were an adventurous couple and visited numerous national and state parks. They also did road trips across the country and to Baja, usually with the kids and the dogs in tow.

Norma loved to travel just with Bob as well. She especially loved cruising to exotic ports of call and traveled overseas to Europe and Norway. They went on a fall foliage tour back

endall Gallanger, 88, The man, the myth, the legend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, December 16, 2024.

Kendall was born May 19, 1936, in South Waconda, Washington, to Earl and Margarite Gallanger. He graduated from Friday Harbor High School in 1954.

Kendall married Harlene Ramage, and together, they had three children. They moved to Atascadero and

St for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], WILLFULLY RESISTS,DELAYS,OBSTRUCTS…[148(A)(1)PC], Case no. 250437 22:11 — Andrea Wilkerson, of Taft was taken into custody on the 2200 block of Theatre Dr for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A)H&S], Case no. 250449

FEBRUARY 05, 2025 01:42 — Silvino Chavezmartinez, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 3200 block of Park St for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/DRUNK IN PUBLIC [647(F)PC], DRIVING WHILE SUSPENDED FOR DUI [14601.2(A)VC], Case no. 250450 12:43 — Matthew Ellis, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 1000 block of Spring St for PROBATION VIOLATION:REARREST/ REVOKE [1203.2(A)], Case no. 250461 13:39 — Dalton Pickens, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of Creston Rd and Rolling Hills Rd for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS [23152(F)VC], Case no. 2540462 14:00 — Brett Duncan, of Paso Robles was on

children, Denise and Daniel, who were the light of Daniel’s life. He was a devoted father, always present at their milestones and supporting their dreams. Daniels’s love extended to his grandson Daniel, whom he adored and cherished. His warm smile and gentle nature endeared him to all who knew him.

Daniel is preceded in death by his daughter Denise and son Daniel. He leaves behind his wife of 72 years, Ramona, grandson, Daniel, and daughter-in-law, Susan.

Daniel was also an active member of his church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and community, volunteering his time and expertise to various causes. He served as Bishop in the church from 1985-1990.

east and visited her hometown in Canada.

Bob and Norma moved to SLO County in 1981, building their house on 10 acres of land in the countryside. They planted a small vineyard on their property and enjoyed making homemade wine. They joined a local winemaking club and had an active social life. Norma loved to entertain and had numerous parties and gatherings, both in Paso and when she lived in Southern California. Many of Norma’s family and extended family eventually moved to Paso Robles, so she hosted a lot of family gatherings as well. She so enjoyed having her children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren nearby.

Norma loved animals and cared for several feral cats on her property, getting them fixed and giving them a warm place

Kendall worked at Loomis Feed in San Luis Obispo and later Templeton Feed and Grain before starting his own construction company. Kendall later worked at Soledad State Prison and the Men’s Colony in San Luis Obispo.

Kendall was a member of the Atascadero Elks Lodge # 2733 and the Paso Robles Elks Lodge # 2364. Kendall loved to travel, going to Alaska, Japan, Australia, France, through the Panama Canal and on

and 24th St for UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION [11550(A)HS], Case no. 250460 23:16 — Jeffrey Molloy, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the corner of HWY 101 and 17th St for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], Case no. 250469 23:33 —

McClung, of Atascadero

arrest on the corner of HWY 101 and 17th St for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL

PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no.

250469

00:00 — Neelee Lujan, of Paso Robles was arrested on the corner of Union Rd and Golden Hill Rd for DRIVING WITHOUT PROOF OF VALID REGISTRATION [4000(A)(1)VC], Case no. 250468 21:41 — Jonathan Godina, of Selma was on view arrest on the 1700 block of Ramada Dr for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 250467 FEBRUARY 06, 2025

Daniel’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and unwavering love. He leaves behind a family that will forever be grateful for the time they had with him and friends who will cherish the memories of the moments shared. Daniel’s passing is a profound loss to all who knew him, but his memory will be a source of comfort and inspiration. As we say goodbye to a remarkable man, we also celebrate the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Charity of one’s choosing. A memorial service will be held on February 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Atascadero, where family and friends will gather to honor and celebrate Daniel’s life.

to sleep on her porch and in her barn. She also had her own dogs and cats over the years, who she loved fiercely.

Norma will be greatly missed by her children, Karen Roots, Andrew Roots, and Nancy (Scott) Wilhite, and her grandchildren, Christopher O’Keefe, Patrick O’Keefe, and John Wilhite. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Roots, her parents, Ole and Linnea, and siblings Silvia, Lillian, and Erling.

A celebration of life will be held in the future. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name to Woods Humane Society, North County Paws Cause, Meade Canine Rescue, or Pacific Wildlife Care.

numerous cruises. Kendall was preceded in death by his daughter, Terri Werner, and his fiancé Joan Price. He is survived by his daughters Kelly Gallanger (Dave Emmett), Indiana, Keri Akers, Atascadero, granddaughters Amanda Werner (Evan Russell), Sabrina Ayesh, great-grandson Finn Russell, his brother and sister (Washington) and numerous nieces and nephews. Kendall will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

11:17 — Selena Garcia, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of Melody Dr and Sylvia Cr for EVADE PEACE OFFICER WITH WANTON DISREGARD FOR SAFETY [2800.2(A)], ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON [245(A)(1)PC], Case no. 250434 05:21 — Lucas Johnson, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the

FEBRUARY

13:21

was arrested for UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION [11550(A)HS], Case no. 250489 14:54 — Darren Yanez, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 24th St and Ysabel Ave for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 250491

86, of Arroyo Grande passed away on January 27th 2025.