Atascadero News • March 30, 2023

AWARDS

Local Nonprofit and Restaurateur Recognized as Outstanding Community Leaders

Awards bring together Atascadero’s best and brightest to celebrate community spirit and service

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS AND

DEVAUL

CAMILLE

This week we continue to celebrate community leaders who received annual awards from the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. Last week we recognized Mike Zappas in being named Citizen of the Year, Larry Wysong with

the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Kyla Skinner as the Woman of Influence.

Now we recognize and celebrate, the Community Organization of the Year award was presented to a nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact on the community, and the Business of the Year award recognized a local business that

Frank Clyburn, Dave Mulvey, Gail Davidson, Janice Graham, and Debbie Rothman.

has demonstrated outstanding performance, growth, and community involvement.

This year’s award recipients, who represent a diverse range of individuals and organizations, have all made extraordinary contributions to improve the quality of life in Atascadero, making it a better place to live, work, and play. We are honored to

partner with the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce to announce this year’s winners and celebrate their outstanding achievements.

Community Organization of the Year

LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero

LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero has been named Commu-

nity Organization of the Year by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. LIGHTHOUSE is a locally established grassroots organization unique to the area that started in 2011. It offers the community valuable drug education, prevention, and intervention services.

“I think it [the award] is a reminder to us of our

motto; it’s kind of an unofficial thing, but it’s ‘We Not Me.’ LIGHTHOUSE is the ‘we’ of Atascadero,” LIGHTHOUSE Executive Director Donn Clickard shared. LIGHTHOUSE was born out of a community need in 2011 when four of Atascadero’s young adults passed away from their drug

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Eight members of the Atascadero Pickleball Club honored with a commendation by Atascadero Fire Chief Casey Bryson

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO—The

Atascadero City Council met for their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, March 28, at 6 p.m. The hybrid meeting was held in the City Council Chambers.

At the last meeting on March 16, the council Ratified the Existence of a Local Emergency due to the recent storms and adopted the Resolution AB 361 Requirements for Virtual Meetings that will remain in place until mid-April.

Councilmember Heather Newsom was not in attendance.

The Agenda and the Consent Calander passed unanimously.

Eight members of the Atascadero Pickleball Club were honored with a commendation by Atascadero Fire and Chief Casey Bryson for helping to save the life of one of their own, David Pascolla, on the pickleball courts. Those members were: Darla Hunt, Donna Martin, Barbara Clyburn,

“Tonight, we’re going to be making a commendation for eight members of our community who participated in saving the life of one of our community members,” said Atascadero Fire Cheif Casey Bryson.

Look for the full story in next week’s paper and online at atascaderonews.com.

Community Development Director Phil Dunsmore gave a presentation on the Public Hearing to Appeal Vesting Tentative Tract Map for 10850 El Camino Real. The track map has been approved by the Planning Commission recently and came before the council for final approval.

“In this case, the project is already separate; it’s already moving forward. What we’re talking about is changing an existing project from rental to ownership,” Dunsmore said of the tract map changes coming before the council. “So the facts in this case, the map doesn’t alter the physical development of this site, doesn’t change what they’re allowed to do, doesn’t change what they’re going to do. The current map request will determine simply if they’re going to be sold individually or be rental units.”

Paula Ramsum was the appellant against the project, her legal council, John Belsher, addressed the City Council. Ramsum owns property downhill from 10850 El Camino Real, and she and her neighbors have experienced heavy flooding due to runoff issues at 10850.

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By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — Lovers of craft beer and good times headed out to the Sunken Gardens on Saturday, March 25, from noon to 4 p.m. for the 5th Annual Central Coast Craft Beer Fest (CCCBF).

“It was awesome. It was the best Central Coast Craft Beer Festival for the Brewers Guild to date,” stated Owner of En Fuego Events and Event Director Andres Nuno.

This year festivities kicked off for the Brewers participating in the Beer Fest with the first-ever Annual Central Coast Craft Beer Fest Disc Golf Tournament. Twenty brewers joined in the game at Heilmann Park at noon on Friday, March 24.

“That brought some other breweries in a little early so they could enjoy

Atascadero

that,” stated Nuno.

The fun for the Beer Fest brewers continued that night at Wild Fields Brewhouse, where over 110 guests were in attendance.

“Jacque and Ryan Fields were great. They do a wonderful job of turning their home into our home for the weekend and making everyone feel like it’s just another day at one of their breweries. It

allocated to repair public areas damaged by recent storms

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — During the Tuesday, March 21, meeting,

the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors were introduced to a new ordinance that would rescind local campaign finance contribution limits.

In November 2020, the Board adopted Ordinance No. 3429, which set the campaign contribution limit to $25,000 per person. However, at the

was really fun,” added Nuno.

He went on to say this was a record-breaking year for ticket sales, with over 2,000 tickets being sold.

“We sold nearly 1,000 VIP tickets, which is bizarre. That’s not normal,” Nuno continued.

Last year the CCCBF sold 800 VIP tickets, but some of those were carried over from the 2020 fest, which was held virtually. With every -

Director of Membership & Special

one working the event, there were between 2,300 and 2,500 people at the Beer Fest in total.

“It felt that way. It felt like there were a lot more bodies in there walking around. It’s such a big field, it doesn’t seem like, ‘oh my god, this is too many people,’ but you just noticeably felt it buzzing a little bit more around the event. Again this is the largest dollar amount

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Supervisors Consider Adjusting Campaign Contribution Limits

Jan. 24 meeting, the board directed staff to instead default to the state’s campaign contribution regulations. If the new ordinance were to pass, it would limit the campaign limit for the period of Jan. 1, 2023, through Dec. 31, 2024, to $5,500 per person.

ordinance, Supervisor Jimmy Paulding expressed his support during consent agenda comments. The official hearing for the ordinance is set for next week, Tuesday, April 4. The Kiwanis Club of Atascadero was allocated $5,000 from Districts One, Two, and Five Community FESTIVAL

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atascaderonews.com

twitter.com/

The fifth annual event was the Fest’s highest selling year to date

Projects

Karina Valezquez enjoy the sunshine at the Sunken Gardens for the Fifth Annual Beer Fest. Photo by Rick Evans

LIGHTHOUSE Chairperson Lori Bagby (left) and Executive Director Donn Clickard head up the anti-drug organization. Photo by Rick Evans

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CALIFORNIA

— On Friday, March 24, Gov. Gavin Newsom met farmers in Yolo County to announce his move to ease drought restrictions. Newsom rolled back some drought emergency provisions that are no longer needed due to current water conditions, while maintaining other measures that support regions and communities still facing water supply challenges, and that continue building up long-term water resilience. Amid climate-driven weather whiplash, the state has taken action to boost water supplies through groundwater recharge, stormwater capture, reservoir storage, and more.

The action comes as the state announced increased water deliveries to 29 public water agencies that serve 27 million Californians, now expecting to deliver 75 percent of requested water supplies — up from 35 percent announced in February, and the highest since 2017.

While recent storms have helped ease drought impacts, regions and communities across the state continue to experience water supply shortages, especially communities that rely on groundwater supplies that have been severely depleted in recent years. Today’s order is responsive to current

Winifred Pifer Wins New $65,000 Engagement Lab

Assistant principal submitted to Get Your Teach On to win the lab

PASO ROBLES — Winifred Pifer Elementary School won a new engagement lab valued at $65,000 from Get Your Teach On (GYTO) to increase student engagement. Family, staff, and community members were invited to the labs reveal on Thursday, March 23.

Out of more than 1,900 nominations, Winifred Pifer Elementary School in Paso Robles was selected to win GYTO’s Engagement Lab makeover.

Research supports that when students are engaged, motivated, and immersed in an experience, their ability to retain information increases significantly. GYTO’s renowned team of Engagement-Makers is transforming a traditional learning space into Winifred Pifer’s very own Engagement Lab, which will bring lessons to life in an interactive environment with endless possibilities. This complete transformation includes 30-plus interactive scenes and experiences to redefine any lesson at the click of a button.

While there are countless deserving schools in the United States, Winifred Pifer was selected after GYTO received a nomination submitted by the school’s assistant principal, Jennifer Moore.

She described how teachers “go the extra mile to create joyful and meaningful learning opportunities for students.”

Moore also expressed how teachers at Winifred Pifer inspire the next generation, regardless of their background, with a high percentage of students either homeless or in foster care.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring an Engagement Lab to the students and teachers at Winifred Pifer,” said Wade King, Get Your Teach On’s COO. King grew up homeless and was a ward of the state in South Carolina.

“I personally know the importance of a welcoming and engaging school experience,” King said. “It 100 percent made a difference in where I am today.”

conditions while preserving smart water measures: Ends the voluntary 15 percent water conservation target, while continuing to encourage that Californians make conservation a way of life;

• Ends the requirement that local water agencies implement level 2 of their drought contingency plans; Maintains the ban on wasteful water uses, such as watering ornamental grass on commercial properties;

Preserves all current emergency orders focused on groundwater supply, where the effects of the

Industries

Students

PASO ROBLES — Thirty-three Paso Robles Career Technical Education (CTE) High School students traveled to three local industry partners. The theme for the day was Manufacturing and Construction.

The students traveled to learn about the industry partners, tour their facilities, and learn about their businesses. Ron Alves of PRW Steel Supply

multi-year drought continue to be devastating; Maintains orders focused on specific watersheds that have not benefited as much from recent rains, including the Klamath River and Colorado River basins, which both remain in drought; Retains a state of emergency for all 58 counties to allow for drought response and recovery efforts to continue.

When announcing the restriction change, Newsom said, “We’re all in this together, and this state has taken extraordinary actions to get us to

this point. The weather whiplash we’ve experienced in the past few months makes it crystal clear that Californians and our water system have to adapt to increasingly extreme swings between drought and flood. As we welcome this relief from the drought, we must remain focused on continuing our all-ofthe-above approach to future-proofing California’s water supply.”

According to the state’s fact sheet, since Newsom announced the 15 percent voluntary conservation goal, Californians conserved 600,000 acre-feet of water — representing 1.2 million households’ yearly usage.

Last Friday, Newsom visited the Dunnigan Groundwater Recharge Project in Yolo County, where he highlighted the state’s work to accelerate and increase groundwater recharge to make the most of winter storms. California is working to expand groundwater recharge by at least 500,000 acre-feet in potential capacity as part of its water supply strategy.

Leveraging the state’s long-term water supply strategy and more than $8.6 billion committed by Newsom and the Legislature in the last two budget cycles to build water resilience, California is taking aggressive action to prepare for hotter and drier conditions driven by climate change that could reduce the state’s water supply by up to 10 percent by 2040. In the 2023-24 state budget, Newsom is proposing an additional $202 million for flood protection and $125 million for drought-related actions.

hosted a tour of the workshop, where students walked the sales floor, metal warehouse, and fabrication areas. This allowed students to see multiple levels of metal and welding, showing the variety of ways PRW Steel Supply supports the Paso Robles community. Wes Hoit of River Oaks from Estrella Associates and Dennis and Jim Moresco of Midland Pacific Building Homes hosted the second tour. Students toured homes in the different stages of development, from groundwork/surveying, framing, electrical, plumbing, insulation, drywall, flooring, and cabinetry to preparing the closing of an escrow.

HOSPITAL BOARD

Governing Board for Twin Cities Community Hospital Announced

Government affairs coordinator for the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance now serves as chair

TEMPLETON — Tenet Health Central Coast has announced its recently confirmed Governing Board members at Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center and Twin Cities Community Hospital. Board membership is voluntary, and those who serve have oversight of the medical staffs, the quality of professional services, and general business affairs of the hospitals.

At Twin Cities, Patricia Wilmore, the government affairs coordinator for the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, now serves as chair of the 15-member body that consists of corporate representatives, staff physicians and community members. Oma Knox, an Emergency Department physician, is the new vice chair.

Other Twin Cities Board members include:

Terrie Banish, deputy city manager, Atascadero

• Jeff Briltz, Templeton community services manager

• Dusty Colyer-Worth, executive director, GALA

Michael DiBiase, M.D., internal medicine

Andrew Dixon, M.D., anesthesiologist

Maria Elena Garcia, pharmacy technician

Steve Martin, mayor, City of Paso Robles

• Ann Miller, R.N., educator

• Michelle Ribas, M.D., chief of the medical staff at Twin Cities

• Joe Robinson, M.D., emergency medicine

• Michael Silvas, M.D., family medicine

STAFF REPORT STAFF REPORT Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the Dunnigan Groundwater Recharge Project in Yolo County on March 24, where he highlighted the state’s work to accelerate and increase groundwater recharge to make the most of winter storms. Contributed Photo GOVERNMENT

• Mareeni Stanislaus, M.D., who was recently named Physician of the Year by Central Coast Medical Association

Joe Robinson, M.D., emergency medicine

Twin Cities’ outgoing members are:

Debra Albert, the outgoing chair of the Board of Governors at Twin Cities, and whom has a marketing and communications firm based in Paso Robles. She is also a past chair of the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Mr. Wayne Caruthers, president of Management Recruiters of Templeton.

Irene Spinello, MD, who guided (and still guides) the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as an intensivist at Twin Cities.

• William Sima, MD, orthopedic surgeon

• Douglas Heumann, Esq.

• Robert Masterson, former chief of police, City of Atascadero

At Sierra Vista, Jill Stearns, Ph.D., President of Cuesta College, serves as the Chair of the 16-member Board, and Ron Reilly, President and CEO, Garing, Taylor & Associates, Inc., is the Vice Chair.

Other Sierra Vista Board members include:

• Brad Knox, M.D., Chief of Medical Staff

Jill Bolster-White, Executive Director, Transitions Mental Health Association

Jacob (Jake) Rothman, Portfolio Manager, Rothman Investment Management

• Eric Salinger, M.D., General Surgeon, Associated Surgeons of San Luis Obispo

• Curby Jenkins, D.O., Anesthesiologist, Coastal

Anesthesiology Medical Associates of San Luis Obispo

• Ross Michel, M.D., Pulmonologist

• Aydin Nazmi, Ph.D., Professor, Food Science & Nutrition, California Polytechnic – San Luis Obispo

Cynthia Valenzuela, Attorney

Mandana (Mandy) Toole, MD, Emergency Medicine, Central Coast Emergency Physicians

• Christopher (Chris) Johnson, MD, Urologist, Urology Associates

• Christopher (Chris) Heylman, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering, California Polytechnic University –San Luis Obispo

Cindy Holt, MD, Pediatric Hospitalist, Pediatrix Medical Group of California

• Otto Schueckler, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon, Central Coast Orthopedic Medical Group

Ron Yukelson, Healthcare Executive, Wilshire Connected Care

Sierra Vista’s outgoing Board members are:

Keith Humphrey, PhD., the outgoing Chair of the Board of Governors at Sierra Vista and the Vice President for Student Affairs and is the chair of the Student Affairs Advisory Council at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Candy Markwith, former CEO of Sierra Vista from 2005-2013. Her tenure, among other many achievements, was marked by Sierra Vista becoming the County’s designated Trauma Center.

Eddie Hayashi, MD, General Surgery Specialist

March 2023: A Month Marked by Multiple Bank Failures

By DOUG STEWART Guest Columnist

The month of March has seen four of the largest bank failures on record, including a global Swiss bank. To many people, their confidence in the U.S. banking system has been shaken.

This is not a new issue as troubled banks and difficult economic times have often gone hand in hand. Ask anyone who remembers the holiday movie classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” This is the story about depositors all wanting to take their money out of their local bank at the same time. This was the typical “run on the bank.”

Keep in mind that, unlike the movie, today most bank customers’ money is safe as there is federal insurance of $250,000 on deposits at all banks and credit unions. Your own bank may even assist you to have an even higher amount

that is covered by insurance. State law requires banks that hold government deposits to backstop/guarantee those deposits with U.S. bonds valued greater than the amount on deposit. The city treasurer has recently verified this in place and the city’s funds are protected.

But what just happened?

Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) in California and Signature Bank in New York have been taken over by their bank regulators and two other regional banks in the US and a major bank in Germany are often mentioned as being “troubled.”

In the case of SVB, the story takes a twist probably never seen before. SVB did not have the typical bad loans that cause bank failure. Instead of loans, SVB was holding a huge portfolio of what is probably the safest and lowest-risk debt security in the world, U.S. government and related bonds and notes. They did not go bad; they just lost part of their value for accounting purposes. For SVB, this was a loss mostly on paper. The run on the bank was not typical either. Instead of standing in front of the locked door

wanting cash as in the movie, the money flowed out digitally via cell phones and laptops. What no doubt made this even more disappointing from the bank’s point of view was that these exiting deposits were from many of their best clients with the largest but uninsured deposits. The day before the bank closed, $42 billion was withdrawn, nearly a quarter of the bank’s deposits. This was preceded by ever-increasing withdrawals in the days beforehand. On Friday March 10, when SVB was closed by the regulators, they were out of cash.

How quickly the loss of depositor confidence took place is evidenced by only a week earlier Goldman Sachs being confident they could support a proposed new stock offering for SVB. In a matter of days, SVB went bankrupt.

We may never really know the match that lit the fuse for the run on the bank, but it was likely the concern that SVB had taken major paper losses (not cash losses) on these government bonds. As interest rates rose starting in 2022, the market value of the 2021 and earlier bonds dropped consid-

erably. The two-year Treasury note in 2021 paid 0.25 percent. At the time SVB failed, this same note paid nearly 5 percent. The difference in value, only on paper, had a theoretically significant impact on the reported bank shareholder equity. When the major depositors decided the bank had the potential to become a failed bank due to these potential paper losses they hit the fund transfer button on their computers. Then social media spread the concerns to clients, partners, investors, and fund managers to do the same. The run was on.

What went wrong will be the subject of many autopsies and pundits, but here is my quick take. In 2021 when the federal government stimulated the economy with major stimulus programs, the high-tech world was suddenly awash in cash. This money flowed into SVB and quickly nearly doubled the size of the bank to over $200 billion. Loan demand could not keep up with the inflow, so the SVB deployed the money to the safest place they could, U.S. government bonds and agencies. Historically, the U.S. banking system has used “stress

testing” models for changes in interest rates to help prevent risk management failures such as what just happened at SVB. The typical benchmark in the models was rate movements up or down by 2 percent annually for one year and then two years. No one ever envisioned a nearly 5 percent movement of rates by our government in just one year. The war on inflation does cause casualties.

The Federal Reserve and the U.S. Treasury are now faced with what to do to protect banks and depositors both in the U.S. and even globally. From these March bank failures comes the question of how to maintain the depositors’ confidence in the over 4,200 community and regional banks that are not designated as too big to fail (B of A, Wells, Citi, and Chase). The banks other than these big four are truly the backbone of the nation’s banking system providing local consumers, businesses, farmers, and industry the banking system they need for our economy to operate. To meet this critical need, the full guarantee of all deposits by the FDIC, at least in the short run, is highly

likely. Higher CD and savings rates for depositors are likely, too, as banks seek to hold onto the deposits they already have.

While the depositors are protected in this expansion of bank deposit insurance the concern will quickly move to those who need financing to run their business each day, plant crops, finance business expansion, or manage their consumer needs. Borrowed money will continue to cost more with the Prime Lending Rate already at 8 percent today which is far above the 3.5 percent it was just 12 months ago. Problem loans will likely increase at banks as the higher cost of borrowing negatively affects borrowers of all types and their cash flows. Financing will also become harder to obtain as banks will tighten lending standards to keep more cash reserves and deal with the increase in problem loans.

The American economy will make it through all this. History shows we always do, but expect at least a bumpy road ahead.

Doug Stewart is the CEO of an LA-based Asset Management Company, and a Board Member of a National Bank.

News Briefs: North San Luis Obispo County

PASO ROBLES

Positions Open on Several City Advisory Committees

The Paso Robles Community Services Department has several available positions for the Library Board of Trustees, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, the Youth Commission, and the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee.

These Boards and Advisory Bodies have been established by the City Council to aid in the gathering of public input, with members serving one to three-year terms that begin on July 1 of each year. Applications for the advisory bodies are due to the City on Monday, May 1, by 5 p.m., with interviews scheduled to happen on Wednesday, May 10.

Applications are available on the City’s website at prcity.com/257/ Boards-Commissions.

“The City’s Board and Advisory Body positions provide an important opportunity for the residents of Paso Robles to offer their input and make a difference in our community,” said Angelica Fortin, Director of Community Services for the City of Paso Robles. “We encourage interested individuals to apply to be part of these valuable committees.”

The City Library Board of Trustees advises on matters concerning the library, assists in the development of library policies, makes recommendations regarding library programs and services, and provides valuable feedback relating to community library needs. The board meets in person on the second Thursday of the month at 9 a.m. There are two available positions on this board.

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee provides information regarding recreational areas such as parks and playgrounds, provides interpretation of community recreation programs, and makes policy suggestions for consideration. This committee meets in person on the second Monday of the month at 4 p.m. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee has two open positions.

The Youth Commission is a

youth-led organization that seeks to provide opportunities and representation for youth through collaboration with local government to enrich the lives of youth in the Paso Robles community. The commission meets in person on the first Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. There are three positions available on the Youth Commission.

The Senior Citizen Advisory Committee makes recommendations regarding issues of interest to senior citizens. The advisory committee meets in person on the second Monday of the month at 1:30 p.m. The Senior Citizen Advisory Committee has three open positions.

For additional information regarding the City Library Board of Trustees, contact Community Services Director Angelica Fortin at (805) 237-3870 or afortin@prcity. com.

For additional information regarding the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, the Youth Commission, or the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee, contact Recreation Services Manager, Lynda Plescia at (805) 237-3987 or lplescia@prcity.com.

Paso Robles Receives Road Safety Grant

The City of Paso Robles was recently awarded a $250,000 grant from the Highway Safety Improvement Program to improve bicycle safety at three intersections in town.

The improvements are identified in the City’s Local Roadway Safety Plan that was adopted in 2020. The Local Roadway Safety Plan identifies roads and intersections that have experienced increased collisions and accidents for all road users. The Local Roadway Safety Plans were approved after considerable input from residents through stakeholder meetings, public events, community workshops, online surveys, and two public hearings.

The Highway Safety Improvement Program is a core federal-aid program to States for the purpose of achieving a significant reduction in fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads.

The three intersections addressed by this grant have a high rate of bicycle/vehicle collisions. The planned improvements include greenpainted bicycle lanes, signage, and associated improvements. The three intersections that will be improved are 13th Street at Riverside Avenue, 16th Street at Riverside Avenue, and Niblick Road at Melody Drive.

The project will kick off design in 2023, and be constructed in late 2023 or early 2024. More information on the Local Roadway Safety Plan can be found at prcity. com/986/Road-Safety-Plan.

Mother and Her Three Children Rescued from Low Water Crossing in San Miguel

deputies, the driver had gone around road closed signs and attempted to cross through moving water when her vehicle was swept off the road and into the river.

Deputies, along with members of Cal Fire and San Miguel Fire, responded. When deputies arrived, two civilians were attempting to get the children to shore through the waist-deep raging river. A deputy entered the water and helped all of the children to safety, and then re-entered to assist the driver in getting to shore.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to urge the community to follow the law and abide by road closures.

ATASCADERO

PG&E Vegetation Work Schedule throughout the City

Vegetation management work around PG&E facilities will begin this week in the City of Atascadero. Davey Tree has been contracted by PG&E to trim over 400 trees in the City right-of-way over the next month. This work will assist in preventing power outages and risks of wildfires.

All trees are located in the City right-of-way, and door hanger notices were provided to adjacent properties prior to this work.

Woods Humane Society Hosts’ Spring Shelter Break’ Promotion

As many prepare for spring break vacations, Woods Humane Society is preparing for a flood of spring kittens and puppies in need of shelter by hosting a Spring Shelter Break adoption promotion from March 18 through April 2.

All adoption fees are reduced to $50 (plus license fees for dogs and puppies) to encourage adoptions and help make space for the hundreds of animals it expects to take in over the coming months.

In anticipation of the annual rise in baby animals that stretches the shelter’s capacity to the max, L’Heureux hopes the Spring Shelter Break adoption promotion will help clear space and find loving homes for the animals currently available for adoption.

The Spring Shelter Break promotion runs now through April 2. All animals have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, licensed, and treated for parasites. Adoptions also include a voluntary 30 days of pet insurance and a free wellness exam at a local vet clinic.

Woods Humane Society is located at 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo, and at 2300 Ramona Rd., Atascadero, and is open to the public daily from 12 to 5 p.m., with adoption hours from 12 to 4 p.m. For more information about Woods, visit WoodsHumane.org or call (805) 543-9316.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Applications Now Open for San Luis Obispo County Grand Jury

Written applications are due by April 14, and are then screened for eligibility, followed by an orientation, and an interview with members of the San Luis Obispo County Chapter of the California Grand Jurors’ Association. Finalists will be interviewed a second time by a Superior Court judge. A random drawing during the selection and swearing-in ceremony will determine the 19 grand jurors and 11 alternates for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

A new grand jury is empaneled each year. Grand jurors volunteer to work as an independent body under the guidance of the Superior Court. Investigations may be initiated in response to formal complaints, newspaper articles, or recommendation from a previous grand jury. Investigating and reporting on the operations of local government is known as the “watchdog” function of a civil grand jury. Each civil grand jury determines which officers, departments, and agencies it will investigate during its term of office.

Applications may be found at Jury Services, Superior Court, 1050 Monterey Street, Room 224, San Luis Obispo, or by calling (805) 706-3611 or online.

Download the grand jury application at slo.courts.ca.gov

NORTH COUNTY NEWS

A mother and her three children were rescued on Thursday after their vehicle became stuck at the Estrella River low-water crossing on North River Road in San Miguel.

San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s deputies arrived to the scene on the evening of March 23. According to

California’s Silicon Valley Bank one of four worldwide to suffer huge failures

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our mother, Sharon Lee Williamson Wilson of Paso Robles, CA, formerly of South Pasadena and San Marino, CA. She passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 16, 2023, surrounded by her three chil-

dren and their spouses. Sharon was born in Los Angeles, CA, on November 13, 1939, to Frank and Merabeth (Orr) Williamson. She was raised in South Pasadena, CA, where she attended South Pasadena schools, graduating from South Pasadena-San Marino High School in 1957. She then attended the University of Southern California, graduating in 1961 with a Bachelor’s Degree in English and her teaching credential.

Shortly after starting her elementary teaching career in Arcadia, CA, she met and married the love of her life, Ronald Wilson. They eventually settled in San Marino, CA, where they raised their three children.

Sharon was an involved

It is with great sorrow that the family of John Edmond Shanahan, known to some as Jack, announce his passing from this life at the age of 89 on February 21, 2023. He died peacefully at home in Carson City, surrounded by his family.

Born in La Habra Heights, California, on November 16, 1933, John retired as a Sergeant from active mili -

mother and volunteered her time in her children’s classrooms and with many organizations, The Assistance League of Pasadena being one. She also spent many years teaching preschool at St. Edmund’s Nursery School in San Marino.

In 1993, Sharon and Ron retired to a 30-acre wine grape vineyard in Templeton, CA, where they spent time growing and selling wine grapes and being involved in local organizations. They were happily married for 41 years until Ron’s death in 2004.

Soon after Ron’s passing, Sharon moved to Traditions in Paso Robles, CA, where she lived until her death. Sharon was full of life and humor and loved being involved in many commu-

tary service in the United States Air Force. He earned a degree in Graphic Arts at the University of California, Los Angeles. It was there that he met his wife of 41 years, Jacqueline N. LeDuc. Jackie and John were married in 1958 and raised four children in Manhattan Beach, CA.

John began a successful career at the Los Angeles Times in 1968 and retired as Creative Graphics Manager

ROADS

nity clubs and projects. She was an active member of The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), her community’s Helping Hands group, P.E.O., and her Newcomer groups. She loved a great card game (especially Bridge), was an avid football fan (Go Trojans!), and loved to travel and cook. She was always up for socializing! Her friends have told us that she was the life of every party. She greatly loved her children and grandchildren but especially loved talking about them to others.

She is deeply mourned and missed by her loving friends and family. She is survived by her three children, Kimberly Wilson (Myrna) of Morro Bay, CA, Ronalee Andersen (Sean) of Morro Bay, CA, and Frank

in 1992. Following retirement, John and Jackie moved to Atascadero, California. It was there that after Jackie’s death, John met and married his wife of 20 years, Lynette Pond.

John was predeceased by his son, John Joseph, in 1985 and his wife, Jackie, in 1999. He is survived by his wife, Lynette, and his daughters and sons-in-law, Denise and Jay Wessell, Laura and Mark

Wilson of Henderson, NV. She is also survived by two grandchildren, Bryn Andersen of Long Beach, CA, and 2nd Lt. Beckett Andersen of Dayton, OH.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 15, from 1 to 3 PM at the Traditions Community Center, 680 The Esplanade, Paso Robles, CA. In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to donate in memory of Sharon to the P.E.O. Educational Loan Fund, a revolving loan fund established in 1907 to lend money to qualified women students to assist them in securing a higher education. Please give credit to the chapter HL/Paso Robles, CA. (https:// donations.peointernational.org/ peo-donation-elf).

Schafle, and daughter, Jane Shanahan, 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

John’s life was celebrated by close family with a funeral mass at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Carson City, NV. He was laid to rest with military honors and a Catholic burial officiated by Monsignor John Barry at Riverside National Cemetery in California on March 17, 2023.

Paso Robles City Addresses Street Pothole Questions

the road is weakened. As cars and trucks drive over the weak spots, they crack and bits of the pavement chip away.

A few common questions were answered about how the City of Paso Robles handles potholes.

between hot mix and cold mix for pothole repair?

which staff uses effectively on larger potholes.

DEATHS

WALLACE “WALLY” LEWIS, 95, of Grover Beach, passed away March 19, 2023.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

TERRY SCARBROUGH, 74, of Arroyo Grande, passed away March 17, 2023.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

RAYMOND JOHN GERBI, 85, of Arroyo Grande passed away on March 20t 2023.

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

ISABEL ROUSH, 98, of San Luis Obispo, passed away March 16, 2023.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

DAVID ROSS, 56, of Arroyo Grande, passed away March 18, 2023.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

FRANKLIN HILTON, 83, of Arroyo Grande, passed away March 22, 2023.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

DAVID MAAS, 64, of Grover Beach, passed away March 22, 2023.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

PASO ROBLES — Due to the heavy rains that have been pounding the Central Coast since January, Paso Robles is experiencing a higher-thanusual number of potholes in its roadways.

According to the city, it’s not the constant pressure of car tires that wears the road down and causes potholes, but water that is actually causing the damage. They explain, once water gets under pavement, it expands and contracts as it freezes and thaws, pushing against the roadbed and pavement. Once it thaws, there is space left where ice was, so

Q: How does the city respond to potholes?

A: Staff responds to potholes as they are reported via the MyPaso Request Tracker, emails, dispatch, and/or phone calls. Repair is prioritized depending on the location, safety concerns, and available material. Major arterial roadways such as Creston Road and Niblick Road are typically a top priority due to frequent use.

When not responding to emergencies, staff operate a hot mix patch truck on a grid moving through the city, systematically filling in potholes.

Q: What is the difference

Robles was on view arrest on the 2100 block of Riverside Ave for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 230906

A: The hot mix method entails first removing rock, dirt, and debris in and around the pothole, applying an emulsion to help the hot mix adhere to the hole, then filling and sealing the hole with hot mix asphalt. This aggregate mix is heated and maintains the heat while in the patch truck. This method prevents water from being able to penetrate around the patch again, stopping the pothole from reforming (unless flooded by water or another pothole forms next to the patch). This method is considered a more permanent patch and typically has a longer life than cold mix.

Below are other items to note:

CalPortland supplies hot mix asphalt to the city. Currently, they are only producing 1/2-inch hot mix aggregate,

230915

MARCH 24, 2023

13:48 — Kelley Hernandez, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the 200 block of Oak Hill Rd for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC],

Case no. 230918

The smaller potholes require 3/8-inch aggregate, which is currently not being produced by the city’s supplier.

The city has one patch truck that can do 2-3 tons of mix daily. Staff continues to pick up 2-3 tons of hot mix every day (regardless of aggregate size) to fill in as many potholes as possible.

It is currently unclear when staff will be able to get 3/8-inch hot mix aggregate.

The cold mix method is when asphalt is simply shoveled into the pothole and smoothed over with a hand tool. This aggregate mix does not require heating. Cold mix asphalt is not a permanent solution and can break up easily depending on a combination of heavy traffic and weather.

Below are other items to note:

MARCH 25, 2023

01:30 — Christian Manriquezromero, of California was arrested for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B) VC], Case no. 230926

The city purchases pallets of cold mix for pothole repair and is available at all times. Especially when hot mix is not available. Cold mix does not last very long, and it breaks up easily, especially in major roadways.

This is typically a last resort and an interim quick fix.

Staff continues to fill potholes during dry conditions. Filling potholes during a rain storm is an emergency measure and not a common practice.

Drivers are urged to be vigilant, practice safety, and be patient as city staff works through the rainy season and continue to fill potholes.

Please report potholes at prcity.com/MyPaso, via the MyPaso App, by email to PWadmins@prcity.com or by phone at (805) 237-3861. All reports will be triaged and responded to as soon as possible.

BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 230937 00:31 — Rabian Martinezflores, of San Miguel was on view arrest on the 3100 block of Park St for PUBLIC INTOXINATION [647(F)PC], Case no. 230938

JEFFREY “JEFF” STRAUSBURG, 63, of Nipomo, passed away March 21, 2023.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 230901

20:44 — Robert Curtis, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on HWY 46 East and Golden Hill Rd for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS [23152(F)VC], Case no. 230904 MARCH 23, 2023

13:38 — Maribel Errejonsanchez, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of Stoney Creek Rd and Alamo Creek Terrace for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/DRUNK IN PUBLIC [647(F)PC], Case no. 230909

17:47 — Victabio Gervaciochavez, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of Oak St and 28th St for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC]. DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)

15:45 — Luis Hernandezgomez, of Paso Robles was sumoned/ cited on the corner of 13th and Spring St for DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE [12500(A)

VC], NO PROOF OF INSURANCE [16028(A)VC], Case no. 230920

19:39 — James Thomas, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1300 block of 24th St for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 230921

21:43 — Angel Taloyo, of Paso

Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 20th St and Vine St for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)

DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 230922

02:29 — Kevin Lopezlimon, of San Simeon was arrested for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A) VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 230927

12:25 — Raymond Cornejo, was on view arrest on the 800 bock of Pine St for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/DRUNK IN PUBLIC [647(F)PC], Case no. 230930 08:01 — Felipe Gaytan, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of Riverside Ave and 26th St for OUTSIDE WARRANT/F, Case no. 230929

MARCH 26, 2023

00:05 — Steven Reynolds, of Salinas was arrested for

01:26 — Dana Smith, of San Miguel was arrested for PUBLIC INTOXINATION [647(F)PC], BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 230939

01:09 — Kerri Frederick, of Paso Robles was arrested for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 230940 04:41 — Sonic Olmos Luna, of Fresno was arrested for BATTERY [242PC], Case no. 230941

11:08 — Roberto Hernandezolivares, of Paso Robles was summoned/cited on the 1200 block of Spring St for DRIVING WHILE SUSPENDED FOR DUI [14601.2(A)VC], POSSESS

NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], Case no. 230942

15:31 — Scott Sanford, of San Luis Obispo was on view arrest on the 900 block of Park St for PRISONERS ON PAROLE MUST CONTINUE TO BE UNDER THE OFFICIAL SUPERVISION OF THE STATE [3056PC], TRESPASS [602.8(A)PC], Case no. 230944

14:48 — Anissa Gutierrez, of Paso Robles was arrested for BENCH

SHARON WILLIAMSON WILSON 1939-2023

JOHN EDMOND SHANAHAN 1933-2023

From the Left

No doubt most Americans being bombarded with the intricacies of our legal system and the long list of delay tactics being employed by the former president are frustrated over a never-ending circle of false alarms about how to proceed, assuming there is sufficient evidence to warrant prosecution. Complicating and exasperating the unprecedented number of both criminal and civil investigations facing Donald Trump has been a world coping with the COVID-19 pandemic, a Russian war of aggression in Ukraine that has united democratic nations and seemingly consolidated authoritarian nations where the potential for nuclear attacks have been carelessly tossed about and serious inflationary jolts to the world economic order affecting all nations. Alas, great uncertainty has millions upon millions of citizens impatient, scared, and leery of the immediate future.

It is long past time to either put up or shut up. While not an attorney, I do believe that impatience is growing by the minute and there either is/ are a case or cases to be made where the evidence is sufficient enough to prosecute or there is not. I believe that the key ingredient in this sorry chapter in our nation’s history and what is so far missing is an overarching commitment to accountability. More specifically, our system must regain the confidence of our citizens that if you are found guilty of a crime you should be adequately punished, no more no less.

Regardless where one stands on the political/ideological spectrum there should be overwhelming support for

FROM THE LEFT AND THE RIGHT

a proposition that has existed for over 1,000 years (the Magna Carta dates back to 1215) namely: no person is above the law. To wit, a recent Reuters/Ipsos Survey concluded “Nine in ten Americans (88%) agree that Donald Trump is not above the law, including 94% of Democrats, 89% of Republicans and 79% of independents. Eighty-five percent of Americans say if Donald Trump broke the law, he should stand trial, including 94% of Democrats, 79% of independents, and 80% of Republicans.”

Furthermore, “Nine in ten Americans, including an even number of Democrats (88%) and Republicans (86%) say that violent acts are not acceptable to achieve their idea of a better society … and eighty-six percent of Americans believe it is not acceptable for a member of their party to threaten/intimidate others to achieve a political goal.” Thus, using threats that blatantly suggest “death and destruction” if he is indicted is a losing proposition.

According to the Library of Congress (LOC), “Chapter 61 of King John’s Magna Carta stipulates that twenty-five barons should be selected to ensure that the king upholds all of the provisions of the charter. When the king is in violation, the barons have the authority to seize the king’s properties by military force — “or distain” him — until he complies.”  Hence, the checks and balances stipulated in the Magna Carta reinforce the supremacy of the law over the will of the king. Hence, no one is above the law, not even a king.

According to the LOC, the framers of the Constitution addressed the issue by including “the checks and balances that operated between the three branches of government were a means to prevent any single branch of the government from governing capriciously … Magna Carta remains to the present day an especially potent symbol for those seeking to lift the pow-

ers of the executive branch of government.”

Another disgraced former president, Richard Nixon, told British journalist David Frost in a televised interview in 1977 that if the president says it “that means that it is not illegal.” He was wrong then, and Trump is wrong now, just as anyone who believes they are above the law is grossly misinformed.

What I find so disturbing about the current investigations is the extent to which individuals with material means have the ability to twist and turn the prosecutorial process so as to run out the clock whether it be via statute of limitations or never-ending litigious maneuvers which constitute delay through frivolity or so-called judge shopping, a process of filing several lawsuits that assert the same claim done with the intent of having one of the lawsuits assigned to a favorable judge. Much the same can be said when the Fifth Amendment is used to thwart the legal process. It reeks of guilt.

Let us all agree that everyone is entitled to due process and the judicial system serves as the final arbiter to resolve accountability when sufficient evidence is presented to a jury of one’s peers and a verdict is rendered. The U.S. Constitution serves as a living embodiment of democratic principles that is constantly being refined and defined. The checks and balances serve as protections against overreach by either individuals or institutions and while sometimes maddeningly seen as impediments to speedy resolve are intended to ensure that accountability and fairness are built into a functioning system of justice for all, and that includes former presidents.

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.

John Adams stated “to the end it may be a government of laws and not of men.” The founders were strongly influenced by the ancient philosopher Aristotle, who understood that powerful leaders would with emotional bias ultimately abuse their authority — often with the best of intentions — stating; “Passion influences those who are in power … Law is reason without desire”. This is the bedrockcornerstone of our republic.

In 1957 Governor Faubus withdrew the Arkansas National Guard he’d promised would protect nine black children from the segregationist mob as they entered Central High School following the Supreme Court ruling in Brown v. Board of Education, so President Eisenhower deployed the 101st Airborne to do so. In addressing the nation while decrying the failure in Little Rock, he lauded the majority of Southern communities for abiding by the law, saying “they demonstrated to the world that we are a nation in which laws, not men, are supreme.”

“Equal Justice Under the Law” is etched in the marble above the doors to the Supreme Court, yet with stunning rapidity this principle is eroding in America. Government’s power to pass laws is vested in Congress, which for example has created laws dealing with immigration. Yet here in California, state and local leaders passionately defy enforcement of those laws. Local law enforcement is prohibited from cooperating with ICE by state statute. In 2018 Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf issued a public warning

that ICE was going to make arrests in the city. The arrests happened, with half being convicted criminals (beyond immigration laws), but others were aided by the mayor and escaped. Federal law specifies shielding an illegal immigrant can result in imprisonment for five years as a felon, yet she wasn’t prosecuted, and Gavin Newson issued a statement praising her. Tell me, without coloring the topic with your beliefs, how was she different than segregationist Gov. George Wallace blocking the door at the University of Alabama in 1963? Both were breaking the law pursuing their beliefs.

Last September, the Justice Department DOJ arrested a pro-life activist for impeding access to an abortion clinic as he defended his young son when attacked by a pro-choice activist. The jury unanimously acquitted him in January. Yet the same DOJ turned a blind eye and failed to enforce federal law against pro-choice protesters outside the homes of Supreme Court justices, intending to influence their decision, a federal crime.

Hunter Biden has been under federal investigation since 2018, and the FBI has had his laptop since 2020, replete with videos of him using drugs. It was dismissed as Russian disinformation before the election, but as revealed in the “Twitter Files” released by Elon Musk, FBI lawyer Jim Baker falsely promoted the Russian disinformation lie. Sadly, and predictably, a recent Rasmussen poll found 64 percent believe the FBI has become “politically weaponized, starting from the top in Washington.” Hunter has admitted his crack cocaine addiction, a felony. He purchased a firearm in 2018 stating on the form “No” to using any controlled substance, committing another felony. Federal agents are still “investigating.” Most other Americans would already be serving time.

The people of California have repeatedly voted for the death penalty. It is a state law, yet Gov. Newsom simply refuses to fol-

low through with executing heinous murderers. L.A. County District Attorney George Gascon similarly refuses to seek the death penalty, nor will he apply gang enhancements for sentencing, which is the law in Penal code 186.22 adding three years to life in state prison. He also directed the district attorneys to dismiss misdemeanors including trespassing, making criminal threats, and resisting arrest. Both took an oath of office to uphold our laws, yet both are picking and choosing which laws they prefer to enforce.

It’s a national trend: Boston

DA Rachael Rollins listed 15 laws passed by the legislature she wouldn’t enforce, including breaking and entering, threats, and receiving stolen property. Similar policies have been adopted by Baltimore’s DA Marilyn Mosby, and Chicago’s DA Kim Foxx. Fairfax, Virginia, Commonwealth Attorney Steve Descanso refuses to implement the state death penalty, even in the 2008 conviction of Mark Lawlor, who after smoking cocaine beat 28-year-old Genevieve Orange 47 times with a claw hammer, then raped her as she lay on the floor choking to death in her own blood. Descanso crowed about his decision, because his personal passions led him to believe it was the right thing. Never mind the law.

American radicals promote defunding the police, emptying our prisons of properly convicted criminals, and worst of all ignoring laws that they don’t agree with. Political patronage and anarchy is the result. They assert our legal system is inherently unjust to rationalize contorting and ignoring our laws, while lifting the blindfold off Lady Justice, putting their finger on her scale, and dulling her sword of enforcement and respect.

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.

It’s Spring — Turning our Thoughts toward Homegrown Tomatoes

missing the boat if you don’t have your own little tomato patch.

With spring in the air, it’s time to turn our thoughts from politics and education to the basic joy of growing your own tomatoes. Yes, North County is perfectly suited for your own luscious backyard vine-ripened tomatoes. If you live in North County and have a spot of full sun in your yard, you’re really

Tomatoes love our hot summer days. Here’s how you can get started with the least amount of cost and effort. Get yourself a stock tank at Farm Supply or online, drill several holes in the bottom, and fill with a mix of half soil and half mulch/ potting mix. Another option if you want wood but don’t want to dig postholes, consider using ‘Oldcastle’ cornerstones from Home Depot and 2 x 6 boards. Gopher wire on the bottom is a must.

The big question, is how many tomatoes do you really need? I find that three tomato plants fill up my 12 ft. bed and are enough for a family of four. My top picks for sandwich and salad are Celebrity, Better Boy, Champion and Early Girl. If you

like cherry tomatoes, the area favorite is Sun Gold, according to local Bay Laurel Nursery. Purchasing at Bay Laurel and Miners guarantees you get high quality plants carefully selected for our climate area.

Optimum planting date is April 15, after frost danger is passed. Place your sturdy tomato cages on the little seedlings right at planting time. They grow so fast, and it’s a real struggle to try to fit them on later. Have some fun by planting parsley, basil, and lemon thyme near the edge of the bed between your tomatoes. Those herbs appreciate the bit of shade that the tomatoes provide during the hot summer months. Throw in a few bright yellow and orange marigolds around the edges for insect control. What about watering? Hose

watering deeply every few days is a healthy option, as it gets you in contact with the outdoors and your growing garden. Drip irrigation installed up through bottom of trough or raised bed is added cost, but more convenient if you already have a drip system.

If you have room and want to delight yourself, get two more stock tanks for a wildflower bed and a Zinnia bed. For the wildflowers, choose six or more packets of hummingbird, butterfly and wildflower seeds and plant liberally in entire bed. For bird protection, cover the seeds with chicken wire until plants peek out of the soil. These enchanting beds will surprise you as they get tall, whimsical and colorful.

To create a display of brilliant late summer color, consider a full bed

of tall Zinnias. Any blooming plant is highlighted and showcased by a large homogenous planting. Zinnias love North County and will bloom for several months, plus they make great picked flowers for the home. Gardening is always a learning process. As you get to know your backyard habitat better, you’ll discover what works in your garden and what doesn’t. By starting out small, you will discover the joy of vibrant blooms and the rewards of those vine-ripened tomatoes, especially when you slice and salt them, add the fresh basil and soft mozzarella cheese to create your homegrown Caprese Salad. Yum!

Connie Pillsbury may not reflect the view, opinion and/or ethics of the Atascadero News and Paso Robles. To send a response to the column email us at editor@13starsmedia.com

No one is above the law, but how selective is enforcement?

LANCE SIMMENS OPINION COLUMNIST

CHAMBER AWARDS

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use. The tragedy of their passing made it evident that something needed to be done. LIGHTHOUSE started as a single program featuring counseling for people struggling with substance and drug abuse at Del Rio Continuation High School. Now it has close to 10 programs and countless ways they interact with the community.

“Now so much of what we do, not all of it, is the prevention and the healthy activities and the good mentors and people in the kid’s lives,” said LIGHTHOUSE Chairperson Lori Bagby, who lost her son to drug use.

The organization also helps spread drug awareness and aids the community in prevention, intervention, and education about drugs and drug use

CITY COUNCIL

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“Whatever you decide tonight, I would please ask you to at least postpone this, at the very minimum, until we get this issue resolved,” stated Ramsum.

City Attorney Karl Berger reinforced the fact that the

BEER FEST

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through Reality Tour, which they team up with once a year. They also reach out to the community with fun events to keep the youth of Atascadero busy with healthy activities.

Clickard added that constructive use of leisure time and productive things to do leave less time for our youth to have time to participate in drug use, which is why they also started LIGHTHOUSE Coffee Company, which is run completely by local students, as well as many other programs.

“It isn’t about any one of us; it’s about all of us; it’s about a whole town,” stated Clickard.

North County Restaurant Group Named Atascadero Business of the Year

The North County Restaurant

Tentative Track Map being approved or not does not have any hold over whether or not the project keeps moving forward.

“I’ve heard the testimony tonight. All of those issues are separate and apart from the findings that you would need to make in order to deny this map. Again, as you’ve

of sales we’ve ever done, which is incredible coming off of 2020,” Nuno said.

This year they also had more vendors participating than in years past. And the break in the rain provided the perfect weather.

“It was just a really good day. It was smooth from load-in through the event. It seemed like everyone had a really good time, and I know a lot of people afterward spent some time downtown walking around or eating or visiting another place to have a drink or two,” stated Nuno.

There were 59 alcohol vendors at CCCBF. Next year’s goal is to bring in over 60 independently owned and Brewer’s Guild-accepted breweries.

In addition to local vendors and craft breweries, wineries, ciders, and kombuchas, this year’s entertainment was also really special. The lineup included two bands, Dad Religion and Moondawgs, as well as vinyl DJ sets put together by Atascadero’s very

SUPERVISORS

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Projects Funds. The funds will be used for the foundation’s Mother’s Day Picnic, being held on May 14, and its Kiwanis Mayors’ Winemakers Dinner, being held on June 23.

In the consent agenda, the supervisors approved a resolution that allows the director of groundwater sustainability to file an application and grant agreement with the California Department of Conservation. The resolution includes the ability to execute funding agreements with any local project sponsors for funding under the Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program Round 2 Grant Program to support the development and imple-

Group has been honored as the 2022 Business of the Year by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce.

What started as a senior project and dream between friends has now turned into a full-fledged business with restaurants spreading from Paso Robles to Atascadero.

“I’m honored, there are so many great businesses in our little town, and I’m just happy to be a part of it. It does feel really good to be recognized,” said Eric Peterson, the owner of the North County Restaurant Group, on being recognized by the chamber.

Growing up in Atascadero, Peterson got his start in the restaurant business at an early age, washing dishes and bussing tables at his grandmother Bonnie Peterson’s restaurants — Country Touch Cafe, Touch of Paso Cafe, and

pointed out, Madam Mayor, the only issue with this map is whether or not this project moves forward as a rental project or it moves forward as an owner-occupied project. That is basically the entirety of the question presented to the City Council tonight,” stated Berger. The motion passed unanimously.

own Traffic Records.

“This year, both bands, The Moondawgs and Dad Religion, both had members from Breweries that are part of the Guild and were up there actually pouring beer,” Nuno added. “So that was just a really cool tie-in for the entertainment that we probably can’t duplicate ever again.”

Hop On Tours helped the Beer Fest out with shuttles from partnering hotels and rides to and from Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo.

“We always love coming to Atascadero and doing this event. We appreciate the support from the local community and the city itself,” Nuno said. “The city is a big part of us being able to do this in the capacity that we do. Terrie Banish is awesome and really helpful, and her whole team is. They’re all wonderful. We appreciate the support, and we love coming back.”

The Central Coast Craft Beer Fest will return for its sixth year on Saturday, March 23, 2024.

“We’ll be back again, and just thank you for everybody for coming out and having a great time, and we’re looking forward to seeing everybody again next year,” concluded Nuno.

mentation of a Multibenefit Irrigated Land Repurposing (MILR) Program for the Paso Robles Groundwater Subbasin.

One grant the county is looking to apply for is a Solicitation Notice and Application (Grant Solicitation) for the Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program (Program) administered by the Department Division of Land Resource Protection’s Conservation Unit. The grant offers $40 million available in its second round of applications for groundwater sustainability projects that reduce groundwater use, repurpose irrigated agricultural land, and provide wildlife habitat.

Projects eligible are those that benefit at least one

community health, economic well-being, habitat, flood, renewable energy, or climate, with benefits lasting at least 10 years.

Some members of the public spoke against consent items 20 and 24, which approved the federal grant American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Public Health Spend Plan for the Public Health Department to continue the work of addressing the COVID-19 pandemic along with increasing the budget for the General Fund COVID-19 Designation to Fund Center.

Supervisors approved the $1,651,897 spending plan for the Public Health Department to continue addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.

The spend plan includes

Touch of Mexico.

“My grandma had a big influence [on me] working for her, and then actually running AJ Spurs is where I really learned,” Peterson says of his start in the industry.

AJ Spurs was where the 18-yearold Peterson met his friend and future business partner Trevor LaSalle. While working at AJ Spurs, Peterson attended Cuesta College and then Cal Poly. All the while, he and LaSalle plotted to open their first restaurant.

Guest House Grill finally came into the scene in 2018. At the time, Peterson says there wasn’t much in Atascadero restaurant-wise and the opportunity seemed to be just right for him and Trevor. Peterson’s aunt was ready to move on from her Mexican restaurant she had open in the Guest House space, leaving Peterson

The Barrel Creek Project was continued from the March 14 meeting due to a power outage and people giving public comments, not being able to speak, or not seeing the entire presentation. Dunsmore gave a brief overview of the project before Public Comment was opened to anyone wishing to speak.

and LaSalle just needing to take over the space and purchase her leftover equipment.

Peterson is now a proud owner of seven restaurants across North County and is proud to be able to give back to the community that gave him his start.

“It’s been a really great feeling to give back to the community when we can. When you first start out, especially in the restaurant business, it is a real struggle with little to no profits. It took a long time to get the company to a state where we could afford to start doing our part to help the community. It was a long, difficult road and still a struggle at times, but it’s all worth it now.”

Be sure to read the articles in the April issue of Atascadero News Magazine.

Twenty residents spoke on the project. Most of them had concerns due to traffic, lighting, and noise, just to name a few. There were also community members who spoke out in favor of the mixed-use project.

The city team made proposed language amendments due to council and community feedback, including lighting on

signs, dimmers on signage and light posts, step-backs on the buildings, and rental on the properties needing to have owners on-site at all times, as well as others.

The Barrel Creek Project passed unanimously.

The next Atascadero City Council meeting will be held on Tues., April 11, at 6 p.m.

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correspondent christianna marks christianna@atascaderonews.com

over 10 temporary and limited-term positions along with various services and supplies. The entire spending plan can be found here agenda. slocounty.ca.gov/iip/sanluisobispo/file/getfile/150403

The General Fund COVID19 was adjusted to redirect $2,521,000 to fund community parks, regional parks, and golf courses damaged by recent storms. Staff laid out the storm damage here that will be repaired with the reallocated funds:

Lake Lopez Recreational Area suffered significant damages to the maintenance area, playground, campgrounds, roads, Sewer Treatment Center and Marina, which require extensive repairs to reopen the Marina

and campground, reestablish access to the Camp French Event Center, and group camping.

Santa Margarita Lake experienced high lake levels beyond capacity, causing electrical damage to a transformer controller, the water well, the Marina building, and throughout the campground; damage to the roads, docks, and trails; and contaminated the fuel tank, which require extensive repairs to open the Marina and campground.

El Chorro Regional Park and Coastal Dunes RV Park experienced damage to trails and significant debris cleanup.

Several Coastal Accessways in Cambria and Cayucos were damaged by high surf along the coastline. Damage to the

handrails, platform boards, and landings caused several accessways to close until repairs can be made.

Community Parks throughout the county suffered flooding, high surf, high creek levels, mudslides, and collapsed embankments. There is a need to replace playground safety surface areas, repair or replace fences, rebuild damaged trails, debris cleanup, and clearing of downed trees.

Dairy Creek Golf Course experienced collapsed lake embankments, damage to the aeration system and flooding to bunkers and the Top Tracer building.

The next San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 4, at 9 a.m.

Over 2,000 guests tasted beer and listened to live music at the fifth annual Central Coast Craft Beer Fest held in the Sunken Gardens. Photo By Rick Evans

Rotary Crab Feed Sells Out a Week in Advance

The Rotary Club raised around $13,000 in proceeds

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — The Rotary Club of Atascadero’s Annual Crab Feed was back again this year. The event, full of yummy seafood and good times for all, took place on the evening of Saturday, March 18, at the Pavilion on the Lake. The Crab Feed sold out before the event took place for $75 a ticket.

“[It sold out] six or seven days early, which is quite a bit earlier than last year,” stated Public Relations for the Rotary Club and President-Elect Nominee Seth Peek.

Peek added that the Rotary’s volunteer group for the event was so well-staffed that the day went super smoothly. Part of that staff included the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce’s Josh Cross, who ran the kitchen with his wife. In addition, the Rotary Interact (Rotatact) Club from Atascadero High School (AHS) also played a large part in the night.

“I think around nine high

schoolers were there,” Peek said. “They do all the serving and bussing for the evening.”

The over 250 local residents who attended the Crab Feed started showing up before the event kicked off at 5:30 p.m. by providing guests with beer from Wild Fields Brewhouse and wine from Ancient Peaks Winery. Of course, the star of the show was the crab, which was locally sourced from the area.

“Everybody was really stoked for the wine, the beer, the food, the good time, the auction, which went off with a bang,” added Peek. “We get our crab from Giovanni’s (Fish Market & Galley) in Morro Bay.”

Peek went on to say that the Rotary Club raised around $13,000 in proceeds from the auction, which will go into Atascadero’s Rotary Foundation. The Foundation supports high school scholarships and local community service projects. The Rotaract Club also raised just over $2,000 in tips, which goes towards their club at the AHS.

“There’s people that come to this that aren’t in Rotary, they don’t have somebody in Rotary, but their family or their company has been buying that table for years,” Peek said.

On top of great fish, great drinks, and great company, The Crab Feed also holds a

table decorating contest. This year the deCou family won the contest with their springthemed table. As a bonus everyone sitting at the table wore a colorful floral or Hawaiian shirt to match the theme.

“Some tables they go all out. They decorate their table and have a prize for the best decorated table. So we had a winner there,” added Peek.

Next year Peek will be taking over running the Crab Feed from Don Idler, who’s been running it for the last 10 years.

To find out more about the Rotary Club of Atascadero, follow them on their Facebook Page: facebook.com/rotaryatascadero.

CONCERTS

Stellar Band to Play at Downtown’s First Friday in April

Downtown retail stores will launch the #atowndownto passport on Friday, April 7

ATASCADERO — The City of Atascadero is gearing up for another First Friday on April 7 in Downtown from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Entertainment for this First Friday will feature the Stellar Band.

In addition, the Downtown retail stores will launch the #atowndowntownpassport. All you need to do is get

six stamps from any of the 35 participating businesses and you will be entered to win a shopping spree. The Streets of Vintage Artisan Market will also be joining along with a variety of food vendors.

Stellar Band is a multi-talented group of musicians who have been rocking festivals, local venues & private parties for over 15 years. The band will keep you dancing and singing to incredible renditions of classic rock hits and Fleetwood Mac covers that span the decades. Its music appeals to multigenerational audiences, which is why Stellar remains a Central Coast favorite. In addition to the music, there will be a handful of

food trucks: Bear City Social, Paradise Shaved Ice, Mary’s Cuisine, and Zen Dog. Mark your calendar for the variety of upcoming First Friday events planned:

April 7: Stellar Band at Historic City Hall/Kicking off #Atowndowntownpassport Retail Crawl

• May 5: Cinco de Mayo — Sip & Shop paired with tamale food booths and trucks. Also featured are complimentary tours of Historic City Hall and potential fireworks (if safe to do so.)

June 2: Downtown Pub Crawl

July 7: Sōleffect Band at Historic City Hall

• Aug. 4: Downtown Stage with

Soundhouse

• Sept. 1: Concert in Downtown at The Plaza with DeJaVu Band

Oct. 6: Fall Sip & Shop plus complimentary tours of Historic City Hall

Nov. 1: Concert in Downtown at The Plaza with Erin and the Earthquakes

• Dec. 1: Light up the Downtown plus Holiday Sip & Shop.

The new #atowndowntownpassport will be featured each month starting with the April First Friday. Each First Friday will offer a different passport. Get six stamps from 35 participating locations, no purchase is required. All completed passports will be entered into a drawing to win a Downtown

shopping spree. Be the first to turn in the passport to any participating Downtown retailer that First Friday evening and you will receive a free gift item (while supplies last).

The city thanks the event’s presenting sponsors: Barley & Boar Brewhouse (open soon), Cielo Ristorante & Rooftop Bar, and Street Side Ale House. First Friday events are free to attend and will kick off between 5:30 and 6 p.m. When there is a concert, the public is encouraged to bring a low-back chair.

For more information on the First Fridays promotion or other events and activities, go to VisitAtascadero.com/ events.

PASO ROBLES — Vendor spaces are now available for the Recycled Treasures portion of the 15th Annual Vintage Rendevous coming this April.

Vendor spaces are available for an opportunity to indulge in a park full of recycled treasures in downtown Paso Robles and at the same time, enjoy the vintage sidecars, antique motorcycles, and vehicles along with electric cars.

Collectors, dealers, crafters, and garden enthusiasts are invited to participate in the Recycled Treasures portion of our Vintage Sidecar, Recycled Treasures, Pre-1950 Motorcycles/Vehicles & Electric Cars event on Saturday, April 22, in the down-

town City Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spaces are approximately 15 feet by 15 feet and cost $60 each. Admission is free to the public.

Applications are available from the Paso Robles Main Street office, 835 12t St. Suite D, in the alley or from the website pasoroblesdowntown.org. Deadline for applications is at 4 p.m. on Monday, April 17. Call (805) 238-4103 for more information or visit PasoRoblesDowntown.org.

The crab was locally sourced from Giovanni’s Fish Market & Galley in Morro Bay.

The Rotary Club of Atascadero’s Annual Crab Feed sells out. Photos by Rick Evans.

Ancient Peaks Winery serves wine at the Crab Feed.

The NONPROFIT

Atascadero Greyhound Foundation

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

CONTACT INFO

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

Atascadero Kiwanis Highlight March Celebrations

Included in the club’s events were a dinner, Scouts giving thanks, and a chili cook-off

By BLAKE ASHLEY FRINO-GERL

ATASCADERO — The

Atascadero Kiwanis March Newsletter highlighted many events that they recently celebrated. Included in the celebrations were a dinner, Scouts giving thanks, and a chili cookoff.

The Kiwanis hosted the Sweethearts’ Dinner Showcase, where they provided their hall and cooked the tri-tip dinner in Tony Villa’s RV carport. Kiwanians prepping the food included Rikki Anderson, Tony Villa, Greg Wilson, Dan Cook and Martha Martin, as well as Lon Allan and Anna-Louise Emrich. The annual dinner is provided by the Atascadero Greyhound Choir Boosters to benefit all the Atascadero High School choirs.

Many messages of thanks were given to the Kiwanis from two scouting groups recently. The thankful messages are a result of the Atascadero Kiwanis serving as a long-time sponsor of both the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts.

As a sponsor of Troop 51, which is the oldest troop in the community, the Kiwanis was

presented with a new American flag by Jim Wilkins to be flown on the club’s exterior flagpole.

The Cub Scouts gave a special thank you to Albert Almodova and Doug Meyer, who served as pit crew workers for the Pinewood Derby. One of their helpful responsibilities was to ensure that the cars were in compliance with weight restrictions. They also assisted with wheel reattachments and other needs that may be necessary during the competition.

This year, “Everyone agrees this was one of the best Chili Cook-offs the club has ever held,” as noted in the Kiwanis newsletter. Leading the event was Kiwanian Angela Ramsey, with some help from the Key Club. The winner, who has previously won, was Jack Scott. He donated the $50 prize money back to Key Club. President Dan Chinn donated the $300 he won in the raffle back to Key Club.

Amidst such special events, the Kiwanis tended to some spring cleaning and maintenance. Carol Sanderson and Kathy McCarey organized the office along with Cyndi Workman, while Paul Porter worked to secure the door holding the electronics. Mike Schneider brought electrical power to the storage shed. Other members sealed cracks in exterior walls and cleaned gutters on the building.

For information on the Atascadero Kiwanis, visit atascaderokiwanis.org

CONTACT INFO

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

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: atascaderogreyhoundfoundation.org/donate.html

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. upport 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 info

Cancer Support Community – California Central Coast

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES

CONTACT INFO

1051 Las Tablas Rd.

Templeton, CA 93465

(805) 238-4411

Monday - Thursday 9 am – 4 pm

Fridays by Appointment cscslo.org

All of our direct services are provided free of charge. Your donations make this possible. You can trust that you are making a difference for local families. We know you have many options when it comes to putting your charitable gifts to work! Our funds go towards the invaluable programs and services that help so many in our community facing cancer. Our online donations are processed securely through authorize.net. Your donations are 100% tax-deductible.

For more information or to discover how you can help, visit cscslo.org/DonationOptions

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

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

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

CONTACT INFO

6875 Union Road

Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3751 redwingshorse sanctuary.org INTERESTED

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.

Less than $10 per week in

The Paso Robles Press and The Atascadero News

Call (805) 237-6060 or (805) 466-2585

Kiwanians prepping the food included (from left) Rikki Anderson, Tony Villa, Greg Wilson, Dan Cook and Martha Martin. Not pictured are Lon Allan and Anna-Louise Emrich. Contributed Photo

COMMUNITY

SLO Symphony Names New Executive Director

Rachel Cementina assumes her new role on Monday, April 3

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — The San Luis Obispo Symphony Board of Directors has named Rachel Cementina the new executive director of SLO Symphony. Cementina’s background in local nonprofit management and fundraising, combined with a deep passion for promoting community-based arts programs, will help to further advance the mission of the organization that celebrated its 60th anniversary last year.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rachel as our new executive director,” said Jim Walker, SLO Symphony Board of Directors president. “She will bring experience, enthusiasm, great communication skills, and a fresh air to our organization. We feel very lucky to have found her and look forward to a successful and invigorating future with her at the helm.”

When Cementina assumes the role April 3, she will manage all day-to-day operations for the County’s preeminent regional orchestra, known for innovative performances, Youth Symphony/educational programs, and the annual POPS By The Sea program. Cementina will also lead fundraising programs, as well as marketing and community engagement initiatives. Cementina’s background has included six years as the community engagement director for the United Way of SLO County, and most recently she served as the director of membership, marketing, and philanthropy for the San Luis Obispo YMCA.

“I am honored to join such a passionate group of musicians, staff and volunteers at the SLO Symphony,” Cementina said. “I look forward to serving the community and promoting arts and music education on the Central Coast.”

Cementina will oversee the remainder of the 2022-23 season, which includes the fifth and

final classics concert of the season, Tchaikovsky and Testimony.

This concert will take place on Saturday, May 6, at the Performing Arts Center SLO. The symphony will be partnering with the Diversity Coalition of San Luis Obispo to bring the audience the West Coast premiere of William Banfield’s Testimony of Tone, Tune, and Time. With seven short movements, the narration is based upon the speeches of historical African American orator and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. It is scored for two narrators, solo saxophone, piano, harp, percussion, and strings. The group will also be performing Tchaikovsky’s Symphony Number 4.

“I am delighted to welcome Rachel as the next executive director of the San Luis Obispo Symphony Orchestra. She has a proven track record of commitment to and engagement with the SLO community and I am very excited to begin this new chapter together,” said Music Director and Conductor Andrew Sewell.

Founded in 1954, The San Luis Obispo Symphony ignites a passion for music in the Central Coast community, creating connection and joy. By investing in promising local youth with the drive and determination to study orchestral music, SLO Symphony is building the next generation of musicians and music patrons. Through accessible performances and outreach opportunities, SLO Symphony enriches the region with cultural vitality and improved quality of life.

EVENT

Public Invited to Shop Local at Jr. CEO Business Day on April 1

Thirty elementary and junior high students will sell their creations

ATASCADERO — The

30 students of the inaugural Jr. CEO program, coordinated by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, will sell their products on Jr. CEO Business Day on Saturday, April 1. The event will occur next to La Plaza in downtown Atascadero from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community is invited to attend and support the small businesses.

Each Jr. CEO created a business name as well as designed a product for sale. Attendees can shop from the following Jr. CEO businesses:

3D Print Bros

805 Bros. Hats & Tees

Alien Shortcakes and

Lemonade Ava’s Pupsicle

Pop-Up

• Bella’s Bakes 805

• Birdie Bungalows

Custom Keys

Good Photos

Groovy + Threads

Hairtology

• Hoffman Spice Co.

• Little Lemons

• Logan’s Origami Butterflies

Lucky Lemons

• Mia’s macramé

Perler Hangers n’

Bookmarks Piper’s Galactic

Bakery Recycling is Fun

Samuel’s Lemonade Stand

Twisted Lemons

• Yummy Gummies

Chamber President/CEO

Josh Cross led each virtual workshop.

“It’s been a highlight of my year to teach these young entrepreneurs the basics of business,” he said. “They’ve worked

EASTER

hard, and you are going to be impressed with their ingenuity. Your presence at Jr. CEO Business Day will contribute to the students’ understanding of running a business. They are eager to see what sells.”

The program provided a unique educational opportunity for elementary and junior high students by offering five virtual workshops focused on entrepreneurial skills. Sessions included fundamentals for setting up a business, cost models, safety and food preparation, marketing and customer service, and savings and money management.

The Junior CEO Program is sponsored by the Better Business Bureau, Coast Hills Credit Union, Central Coast Moving Company, Eckerd Connects, and the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education.

Easter Bunny Coming to Downtown this Saturday

PASO ROBLES — The Easter Bunny will be the guest of the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association on Saturday, April 1, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Just come downtown to the City Park Holiday House (Park and 12th Streets).

Bring your camera and take your picture with the Easter Bunny.

DONATION

Pacific Premier Bank Donates

$15,000 to Habitat

for Humanity

Donation supports nine houses being built in Paso Robles

PASO ROBLES — Pacific Premier Bank donated $15,000 to Habitat for Humanity SLO County to support its affordable housing program. This grant will support the creation of nine affordable homes on Vine Street in Paso Robles.

“Supporting Habitat for Humanity is yet another example of how Pacific Premier Bank lives its values,” said Brooks Wise, Regional President for Pacific Premier Bank. “Collaborating with organizations like Habitat for Humanity is a natural fit as we help strengthen the communities we serve.”

Habitat for Humanity SLO County is a nonprofit organization that brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Since 1997, they have built, repaired, and rehabilitated houses throughout San Luis Obispo County. They believe in a world where everyone has a decent place to live. By building and improving homes, they create

strong and stable communities. HFHSLOCO strives to make decent, sustainable, and affordable housing a reality for all.

“Our goal is simple: partner with local families who seek the strength, stability, and independence that homeowner -

ship provides. As we begin construction on our Vine Street Project in Paso Robles, Pacific Premier Bank is actively contributing to transforming lives in SLO County.

Habitat for Humanity SLO County is continually grateful for their ongoing dedication to afford-

WINE COUNTRY

able housing, serving the community, and creating long-lasting change,” said Nicholas Rasmussen, CEO of Habitat for Humanity SLO County. Learn more about Habitat and ways to get involved, including individual and corporate giving, at hfhsloco.org.

Back Roads Wineries of Paso Robles to hold Grand Tasting Event

Eighteen winemakers and vintners will share their current release wines paired with gourmet bites

STAFF REPORT

PASO ROBLES — The Back Roads Wineries of Paso Robles, a group of over 20 wineries located south of Highway 46 and east of Highway 101, will be holding their annual grand tasting event showcasing their wines and the diversified winemaking styles of the winemakers that produce them.

“A Taste of the Back Roads Wineries” Grand Tasting will be held at Cass Winery on Saturday, April 29, from 6 to 9 p.m. Walk around tasting will provide a unique food and wine experience as 18 winemakers and vintners share their current release wines paired with gourmet bites. Dinner and live music (Unfinished Business) in the beautiful Cass “Barrel Room” event center round out the evening.

Tickets available at shop.casswines.com/ product/2023-Taste-of-theBack-Roads

A portion of the proceeds from the Grand Tasting will be donated to the Family Care Network, a community-based organization providing clini-

cal and treatment services and support to children and youth in a family setting.

Participating wineries are Ascension Cellars, Bella Luna, Bovino Vineyards, Cass Winery, Chateau Margene, Demeter Family Cellars, Dresser Winery, Ella’s Vine -

yard, Glunz Family Winery, Hansen Vineyard & Winery, Hidden Oak Winery, Optio Vineyards, Penman Springs Vineyard, Rasmussen Vineyards & Winery, Rava Wines, RF Fine Wines, Steinbeck Vineyards, and Still Waters Vineyards.

RACHEL CEMENTINA

(From left) Mike Chen, 1st VP/Senior Relationship Manager; Sadie Strain, Business Banker; Brooks Wise, Executive VP/Regional President; Nicholas Rasmussen, Habitat for Humanity SLO County CEO; Sarah Santana, VP/Senior Relationship Manager; Matt Allen, SVP/Director of Commercial Banking; and Dawn Smith, Habitat for Humanity SLO County Director of Development pose with the check noting the $15,000 donation to Habitat for Humanity.

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312 dyana ct, Paso Robles, ca 93446 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ David Williams rogers

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 02/28/2023 TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: 09/23/2022

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 02/28/2028

PUB: 03/09. 03/16, 03/23, 03/30/2023

LEGAL CM 105

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No 20230252

THE FOLLOWING PER-

SON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: DESIGN SOLUTIONS, 3357 RIO LADO, ATASCADERO, ca 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL, MARK ANTHONY DIAZ, 3357 RIO LADO, ATASCADERO, ca 93422 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ MARK DIAZ

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 01/31/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: 01/01/2017

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ fabrizio giorgi, owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 02/23/2023 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 02/17/2023

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

CANO, County Clerk

San Luis Obispo County on 02/24/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 03/19/2019

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my

office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By ATRUJILLO, Deputy

New

600 Nickerson ave, Paso robles, ca 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL,

ELAINA CANO, County Clerk

By ATRUJILLO, Deputy New Fictitious Business

Name Statement, Expires 01/31/2028

PUB: 03/09. 03/16, 03/23, 03/30/2023

LEGAL CM 106

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230479 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: PATTYLYNN’S, 7100 NAVAJOA AVE, ATASCADERO, ca 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A GENERAL PARTNERSHIP, PATRICIA J. BORBA, 7100 NAVAJOA AVE, ATASCADERO, ca 93422, LYNN M. STROBLE, 2047 STALLION WAY, PASO ROBLES, CA 93466

If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ LYNN M. STROBLE

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230469 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: NIXON CREATIVE COMPANY, 75204 RANCHITA CANYON ROAD, SAN MIGUEL, ca 93451, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL, NICHOLAS JON CUMMINGS, 75204 RANCHITA CANYON ROAD, SAN MIGUEL, ca 93451 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization

I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ NICHOLAS JON CUMMINGS

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 02/23/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: 01/17/2023

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 02/23/2028 PUB: 03/09. 03/16, 03/23, 03/30/2023 LEGAL CM 108

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230578 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: QUICK COMFORT FOODS, 98 S MAIN ST STE C, TEMPLETON, ca 93465, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION, M E S INC, 98 S MAIN ST STE C, TEMPLETON, ca 93465 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ M E S INC., ELIAS SAMAAN, CEO This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/07/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: NOT APPLICABLE

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

AS: KAITILIN K RILEY DDS, 336 12TH ST, PASO ROBLES, ca 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION, Chet l. Jenkins d.d.s ii, inc., 410 n 44th. St #290, phoenix, az 85008 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ Chet l. Jenkins d.d.s ii, inc., Bryan long, cfo This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 02/28/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: 11/15/2022

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business

Name Statement, Expires 02/28/2028

PUB: 03/16, 03/23, 03/30, 04/06/2023

LEGAL CM 111

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230608 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: PATTYLYNN’S, 7100 NAVAJOA AVE, ATASCADERO, ca 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CON-

DUCTED BY: A CORPORATION, MARIAN EUCHARISTIC MINISTRY, 7100 NAVAJOA AVE, ATASCADERO, ca 93422

If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ MARIAN EUCHARISTIC MINISTRY, PATRICIA BORBA, PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/09/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: 03/21/2019

SON(S)

CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 02/27/2028 PUB: 03/16, 03/23, 03/30, 04/06/2023 LEGAL CM 114 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230301 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: BEAUTY BAR +, 1141 MISSION ST B,

SAN

/S/ 8425 MORRO RD, LLC., RUTH MARIE SNYDER, MANAGING MEMBER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/08/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 12/08/2022

CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By ATRUJILLO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 03/08/2028

PUB: 03/16, 03/23, 03/30, 04/06/2023 LEGAL CM 113

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230500 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: PACIFIC POOLS, 3191 BLUEGRASS PL, CRESTON, ca 93432, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL, JAMES DAVID VIDITO II, 3191 BLUEGRASS PL, CRESTON, ca 93432 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ JAMES DAVID VIDITO II This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 02/27/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 02/24/2023 CERTIFICATION: I hereby

CERTIFICATION:

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 SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY

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) 460-0762. awakeningways.org

GRACE CENTRAL COAST NORTH COUNTY CAMPUS

9325 El Bordo Avenue, Atascadero; Sunday Services at 9:30 and 11 a.m.; (805) 543-2358; gracecentralcoast.org; Helping people find and follow Jesus.

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH

238 17th St. Paso Robles; Sunday Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 10 a.m.; Our Wednesday Testimony; Meeting is the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.; Reading room-same location after services & by apportionment.

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.

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH

820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times;Daily Mass- 12:00 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Spanish; Saturday 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Spanish Vigil Mass; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 12:30PM. Father Rudolfo Contreras.

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.

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF ATASCADERO

11605 El Camino Real, Atascadero; Sunday Service Time: 10 a.m.; Nurs-ery Care Provided:; 9:45 a.m.- 12:15 p.m.; Mid-week student ministry; PreK-12th grade Sept-April, Weds, 4 p.m.; (805) 466-2566; Pastor Steve Poteete-Marshall; atascaderoumc.org.

ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

513 Palma Ave., Atascadero; Sunday services: Holy Eucharist — 9 a.m., Taize — 8 p.m.; the Rev. W. Merritt Greenwood, interim director; the Rev. James Arnold, Deacon; the Rev. Jacqueline Sebro, Deacon; office (805) 466-0379, fax (805) 466-6399; website stlukesatascadero.org; email office@stlukesatascadero.org

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

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

barbie butz COLUMNIST

Fun at the Zoo and Simple Recipes

information can be found at VisitAtascadero.com/Brew-atthe-Zoo. Mark your calendars now for this exciting event right inside the Zoo.

This weeks recipes are simply a potpourri of simple dishes ... easy to prepare, delicious to eat.

Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

The Charles Paddock Zoo offers many opportunities for children and adults to learn more about our world and the animals that inhabit it with us.

An Earth Day Celebration, “Party for the Planet,” will take place at the Zoo on April 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a variety of food, craft, and informational vendors, conservation ideas, and other activities for children.

The Zoo’s Party for the Planet will be an all-inclusive conservation event connecting how we manage our natural resources and protect animals locally and globally. It will be a day of hands-on fun with activities all day. Event information can be found at VisitAtascadero. com/events

The 9th Annual Brew at the Zoo, at the Charles Paddock Zoo, is set for Saturday, April 29, from 5:30- 8:30 p.m. ticket

Ingredients:

3 to 3 1/2 pounds mashed potatoes

8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)

• 1 cup sour cream

• 3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard

Kosher salt (optional)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions:

Combine mashed potatoes, cheese, sour cream, and mustard in a large pot over medium-low. Cook, stirring often, until potatoes are warmed through and cheese is melted, 10 to 15 minutes. Season with Kosher salt, if desired. Serve topped with melted butter.

Note: To make ahead, prepare the recipe up to 2 days in advance. Reheat on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving.

Creamed Spinach Casserole

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 yellow onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped (about 4 teaspoons)

• 2 5.2-ounce package herband-garlic soft cheese (such as Boursin)

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 12-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

• 2 ounce Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup), divided

1 cup heavy cream

16 round, buttery crackers (such as Ritz), crushed into fine crumbs

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees with rack in top third of oven.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring often until softened, about 6 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add soft cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; cook, stirring until cheese is melted, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in spinach and 1/4 cup Parmesan. Stir in cream. Transfer mixture to a 13-by-9-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle with cracker crumbs

Riding Lessons

don’t jerk back on the reins, and never, under any circumstances, grab the horn.” Or, as he called it, “reaching for the apple or squeezing the biscuit.”

lee pitts COLUMNIST

The first thing in life I remember wanting to be was a jockey and the second thing was a professional basketball player. Alas, I was too big for one and too small for the other. So I figured that being a cowboy would be a better fit.

I hate to admit this, but I’ve never had riding lessons in my life. I’ve never crossed an angry river on a horse, never rode a bronc in a rodeo and was never a member of the National Cutting Horse Association. I learned to ride sitting astride a saddle in my grandpa’s “bunkhouse,” which wasn’t really a bunkhouse at all but a shed filled with old bits, spurs, saddle blankets, and two saddles sitting on stands. My favorite thing to do as a child was to go to grandpa’s house, where I’d head straight to his bunkhouse, mount up and play cowboy. My grandpa coached me, “Keep your heels down,

My second favorite thing to do was ride the mechanical horse in front of the grocery store and I’m proud to say that neither the saddle stand or the mechanized equine ever bucked me off despite some really hairy predicaments. When I went to the county fair, I always rode the horse on the carousel, not the ostrich, tiger, elephant or swan so at that point in my career, I felt like I could ride anything that wore hair, wool or feathers. Oh, I’d been on real horses before and have photographic evidence that I rode before I could walk, but I was always in the arms of grandpa at a rodeo. It wasn’t until I was a sophomore in high school that I got on real horses and was a real cowboy. My best friend in high school lived on his grandfather’s ranch and every chance I got I went there to haul hay in exchange for riding horses. From the beginning, I was assigned Buck, a horse that never did. Buck was

the horse they always assigned to dudes, small children, infirm old-timers and me. I loved that old horse. On a gentle horse like Buck, everybody is an accomplished equestrian but simply polishing my pants on saddle leather didn’t make me any more of a cowboy than wearing spurs did. It wasn’t until I got my first job out of college as a cowboy that I had to ride rank horses. I wouldn’t say that any of the cribbers ever bucked me off, but there were a few times I had to make an unscheduled dismount to tighten my cinch.

I wouldn’t necessarily call it “getting bucked off” either when one of those renegades with lethal tendencies took off at a lightning pace that would have won the All-American in Ruidoso had he been there instead of a forest full of trees with low hanging branches, everyone of which tried to knock me out of the saddle. The whole time it was happening I kept hearing the words of my grandpa, “Don’t jerk back on the the reins and never grab the horn.” I wouldn’t say I was bucked off, it was more like I

Shine Your Light

your radiant self. We didn’t come here to hide our light under a bushel basket. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says: “Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house.”

flaws, and we become convinced that we are not good enough. I remember the first sermon I delivered when I became a minister. I was overflowing with joy about providing an inspiring message to a group of people. It was a holy and sacred experience, an honor to be trusted this way.

and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan. Bake until golden, 10 to 15 minutes.

Note: To make ahead, prepare spinach mixture up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate in the baking dish. Before baking, top with cracker crumbs and remaining Parmesan.

Everything Dinner Rolls

Ingredients:

Cooking Spray 20 frozen dinner rolls

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning

Directions:

Coat a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Thaw rolls according to package instructions in baking dish. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt butter and honey together in microwave or on stove. Brush rolls with honey, butter and sprinkle with seasoning. Bake until golden, 15 to 20 minutes.

Note: Look for the bagel seasoning in the spice aisle of the market where you shop. Stay dry, again. Cheers!

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

was scraped off.

If I ever had to ride one of those owl heads in the presence of my contemporaries, I always hoped a rattler would bite my mount so he’d die and I’d have a good excuse for walking back to headquarters.

Years later when I had my own cow herd I always rode my horse Gentleman, who must have been a son of Buck because he too, never did. But one day, Gentleman was busy trying to breed my neighbor’s Paint mare, so he lent me one of his outlaws. Everything was fine until I tried to make him cross over a rock strewn stream. When he balked I may have tapped him a little with my spurs and the next thing you know I was knocking a hole in my chest with my chin. One minute I was soaring with eagles and the next thing I swimming with fishes.

It was then I formulated Lee’s theory on how to never get bucked off ... never climb aboard in the first place.

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

In her book, “The Gifts of Imperfection,” Brené Brown offers this definition of authenticity: “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.”

To be authentic, we must drop the masks we wear that keep us safe and hidden and dare to be ourselves. Oscar Wilde observed, “Be yourself — everyone else is taken.” You have been endowed with extraordinary gifts and talents only you can deliver. You are a uniquely brilliant child of the Divine, and the world awaits

What blocks us from shining our light unto the world brilliantly? It’s this little thing that’s universal to the human experience called shame. Shame is the uncomfortable sensation we feel in the pit of our stomach when it seems we have no safe haven from the judging gaze of others. We feel small and bad about ourselves and wish we could vanish. Shame fosters fear, negative self-talk, and pressure to be perfect. It causes us to feel unworthy in many ways.

When we feel it, we become overly critical of ourselves and our actions, focusing on mistakes or

I delivered an engaging, powerful message that inspired and uplifted folks and even received a standing ovation. While delivering my message, my eyes fixed on one person in the room with their arms crossed and a frown on their face. I recall wondering if my words were making sense. Nevertheless, I persisted in delivering a powerful message. My eyes kept returning to that one person. After my talk, several individuals approached me, thanking me for such a great message and declaring that I was speaking directly to them. I was moved and inspired, but that was

short-lived. I kept going back to that one person. I began to question myself and what I was doing. Was this ministry gig for me to do, or was I just a phony, trying to be something I was not? Eventually, that person contacted me to share how inspired they were by my message. I realized that shame had prevented me from reveling in the glory of that day.

Eleanor Roosevelt observed, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” Similarly, no one can make you feel shame without your consent. Recognize it when it arises and release it back into the nothingness from whence it came. Shine your light! You are magnificent! 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

rev. elizabeth rowley hogue COLUMNIST

SCHOOL

Bearcats Boys Volleyball Inspired by Trip to See The Big Boys Play

Team takes in Division I college match in Santa Barbara, later go on to beat league rival Atascadero in five sets

By CAMILLE DEVAUL

PASO ROBLES — This March, the Paso Robles High Bearcats boys volleyball team was given an opportunity to watch an NCAA Division I game in Santa Barbara. Prior to their own match against Laguna Blanca and St. Bonaventure on Saturday, March 4, the team was invited to watch the UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) Gauchos men’s volleyball team play the UC San Diego (UCSD) Tritons.

Coach Scott Gardner hoped the collegiate matchup would inspire his players as they headed into the heart of the season. The game was the first live D-1 men’s volleyball game any of the players had attended.

“It was an amazing experience for the Bearcats,” said Gardner of the experience at UCSB. The next morning, the Bearcats faced two private schools from the CIF Southern Section.

Gardner reported the Bearcats played competitively against both Laguna Blanca and St. Bonaventure, but just did not have enough to pull out a victory against either of their opponents.

With Omar Acevedo and Miguel Muniz as the senior captains, Gardner had high expectations for those two and their team in their final season as Bearcats.

In PRHS’s pre-league matches, it was an unsettling 1-4 start.

On Thursday, Feb. 23, the Bearcats hosted the Salinas High Cowboys. The Cowboys took the match with a score of 3-1 (25-16, 25-23, 21-25, 25-21). Then on Tuesday, Feb. 28, the Bearcats traveled to Pioneer Valley, where the Panthers took the match, also by a 3-1 score (25-14, 22-25, 25-20, 25-22).

“The Bearcats played both teams and all sets were really close,” said Gardner in reference to the first two pre-league games. “Unfortunately, the Bearcats had a few too many errors at critical times of the matches. There was a sense that the Bearcats were on the verge of taking those close losses into hard-fought victories.”

Luck changed on Thursday, March 2, when the host Bearcats defeated the Immanuel Eagles (18-25, 25-18, 25-21, 26-24).

Gardner describes the game, “The Bearcats were led by Captains Omar Acevedo (Sr) and

Miguel Muniz (Sr), with great contributions from Bennett Reed (Jr) and Ezra Smeltzer (So). Additional contributions from Maxwell Berry (Jr) and his assists, and some great situational serving by Colin Daugherty (Fr).”

On Wednesday, March 7, the Bearcats went on to the Ocean League, first facing Atascadero. The team started the league season on a good foot, winning the first three games against Atascadero Greyhounds (3-2 after taking the last set 19-17), Orcutt Academy Spartans (3-0) and the Santa Maria Saints (3-0).

When referring to the Bearcat vs. Greyhound game at the start of March, Gardner made it known both teams are looking for a league championship this year. The rivals battled against each other that first game, where Gardner notes both teams were “competitive and up for the challenge in the first set, with the Hounds edging the Bearcats

25-20. The Bearcats were determined to make a few more passes and clutch plays in set two, winning 25-16.”

Continuting to describe the game, Gardner said, “The Bearcats let the set-two victory loosen their focus and gave set three to the Hounds 25-12. This put the Bearcats in a must-win frame of mind, they put together another set where they were in control of the entire set, 25-19 for the Bearcats. This pushed the match to a fifth and deciding set. Paso won the coin toss, then fell behind, but kept battling back to tie the match. The Hounds had three different match points for the victory to be theirs, but the Bearcats kept calm and kept playing great volleyball.”

In the end, the Bearcats rose up with a comeback that won the final set at 19-17.

While the first three league games were a success, the Bearcat’s next four games ended

in 3-0 losses, to Central, Madera, Bullard, and Templeton. On Thursday, March 23, the Bearcats broke their losing streak with a 3-1 win against Cabrillo (23-25, 25-18, 25-16, 25-17). And in their latest game on Tuesday, March 28, the team INSERT GAME UPDATE against Righetti who came into the game with a season record of 2-6.

The Bearcats will return to face Atascadero on Thursday, March 30, and Templeton on Thursday, April 6. As of Tuesday, the Greyhounds hold a 7-6 record against the Bearcats, who are 5-8 for the whole season.

The Bearcats’ final league game is scheduled against Righetti on Thursday, April 27. The Warriors currently hold a 2-6 record. With nine games left in the season, the Bearcats are ranked 31st in the Central Section and 15th in the Ocean League. We wish the Bearcats good luck on the rest of their season.

Week of March 30 - April 5

TEMPLETON

For full details on games, locations, etc. please visit: templetonhs.schoolloop.com/Athletics

ATASCADERO

For full details on games, locations, etc. please visit: atascaderousd.cyberschool.com/AHS/Department/32-Athletics

“Casey is an outstanding senior that has been on the Varsity Stunt team for four years. She puts so much effort and dedication into our team and practices. Casey is an incredible asset to our team and our amazing Jumps and Tumbling Captain this year..

- Coach Vanessa Espinoza

please

PASO ROBLES HIGH

Paso Robles High Bearcats boys volleyball players pose behind a UC Santa Barbara banner after watching UCSB’s men’s volleyball game against UC San Diego in Santa Barbara. Contributed Photo