Paso Robles Press • December 26, 2024

34th Annual Victorian Teddy Bear Affair fills Park Ballroom

Children and families gather for tea, performances, and festive cheer at the cherished event

By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com

PASO ROBLES — Little girls and boys dressed in their Christmas best filled the Park Ballroom on Park Street for the 34th Annual Victorian

Teddy Bear Affair on Saturday, Dec. 21. The afternoon was filled with “tea” in custom tea cups, singing, dance performances and visits with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Snow King and Queen.

The event is the final chapter in

A 1944 Christmas Story: Part I

NORTH COUNTY —

Born in Oklahoma in the autumn of 1921 to Simon and Anne Hamon, John Reuben was 3 years old when the family moved to California’s Central Valley with other relatives ahead of the great Southern Plains Dust Bowl that so badly devastated farming in the Midwest during the late ’20s and early ’30s. Growing up, he went to school, excelled in sports, and worked with his parents and three sisters in the farm fields around Wasco picking cotton and potatoes.

After his high school graduation in 1939, he pursued his dream of becoming a pilot for the next two years and entered a pilot training program at Bakersfield Junior College. The program taught students

aeronautical engineering and how to fly the single-engine 65-hp Piper Cub. He earned his Airman’s Certificate no. 109408 in 1941 and continued on with his advanced training. When the United States entered World War II in December of 1941, all flight training programs were required to be moved inland a minimum of 100 miles from the coast. Hamon‘s class was

the Paso Robles “Christmas Story” dreamed up by the Paso Robles Main Street Association’s Executive Director Norma Moye over 30 years ago. Moye describes the event as one final gift to the children before Christmas comes to town.

Sisters Ruby and Tori Ormonde thoroughly enjoyed their first Teddy Bear Affair. Each child in attendance came accompanied by their own teddy or “plushie.” Ruby, age 7, told Paso Robles Press what her favorite part of the afternoon

was: “I like the singing,” and she added that Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer was her favorite song of the day — can’t go wrong with a classic like that. Her sister Tori’s (6 years old) favorite part of the affair was bringing her

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS

ATASCADERO — The local animal-loving community showed up in a big way for the animals at the Charles Paddock Zoo this holiday season. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21, the animals tore into gifts provided by the community at the 17th Annual Holiday Magic at the Zoo event.

relocated to Independence, California, on the east side of the Sierra Mountains, and later to Lone Pine, farther south on Highway 395, for secondary training, where he flew the more powerful Waco F7 and Stearman biplanes.

With flight training completed, he came to Lompoc, where his family had relocated. John Hamon worked with his father who had opened a plumbing business and learned the trade which was to later become his professional career after the war. With America at war, Hamon volunteered and was enlisted into the U. S. Army Air Corps in 1942. Because of his private pilot skills, he was commissioned as a flight officer and was called to active duty Feb. 17, 1943. Advanced multi-engine training took him to Buckley Field in Colorado and then onto a succession of other bases in the western

NORTH COUNTY — The American Legion Post 50 celebrated 100 years on Sunday, Dec. 22, at its location on Scott Street in Paso Robles. To celebrate the

century, Post 50 received several donations and gained one very special member — Santa Claus. On a sunny Sunday, American Legion members, along with friends and family, gathered at Post 50 for tamales, drinks, live music, and camaraderie. Chartered in 1919, the American Legion has evolved from a group of war veterans from The Great War into an influential nonprofit organization. In 1924, Paso

Robles became home to Post 50 on Spring Street. Its force of local veterans works with community partners to help veterans and their families navigate Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics, pension issues, and health care needs and provide opportunities for civic engagement and Americanism to local youth.

“Over the course of a couple of years, we migrated and we were

This year the meerkats, spider

“It shows the community’s support because all these gifts were bought by other people for the animals,” said Zoo Director Dr. Cynthia Stringfield. “So that is huge to know that everybody’s out there buying things for the animals and then to get to see them get the presents and be excited and use them and everything. It’s just a really fun day for everybody.”

By JOHN HAMON JR.

A special to Paso Robles Press

Having learned to fly Piper Cubs in Bakersfield, and undergoing more advanced training at other California locations, John R. Hamon Sr. eventually took part in a pivotal air operation during World War II. Contributed Photo

American Legion Post Service Officer Tim Francis, Commander Chris Rohrberg, and Leon Tackitt of the nonprofit Pleasant Valley Wine Trail are shown at the post’s 100th anniversary. Rohrberg is holding a check from Tackitt which represents his donation to the Legion’s Be the One

(Left) Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus pose with Tori (left) and Ruby Ormonde at the

plushie Uni the Unicorn to join the fun activities.

We asked the sisters what they looked forward to most this Christmas. They both had the most heartwarming answer for the press.

“You get to spend time with your family,” said Ruby.

Tori followed, echoing her sister’s sentimental response, “Spending time with my family.”

Also in attendance was the 2024 California Mid-State Fair Court: Queen Megan Pagnini, Ashlee Holt, and Logan Rutherford, who all grew

monkeys, red pandas, tiger, mongooses, lemurs, binturong, anteater, marmoset, and porcupine received gifts and the crowds were out to watch as they all opened their gifts.

“I’ve never seen them open their presents,” said Atascadero resident Debbie Roller. “I’ve just been so excited. It’s very unusual.”

up in Paso Robles. This was Holt and Rutherford’s first time attending the affair, however, Pagnini grew up coming to the Teddy Bear Affair (formerly known as the Teddy Bear Tea).

“It’s special because my mom came with me again today so we are just recreating what I did as a kid but now older and as queen,” said Pagnini.

Throughout the last year and especially during the holidays, the CMSF court has made an effort to attend as many events throughout the county as possible.

“Being able to do all the Christmas activities ... doing stuff for the community has been really special,”

Roller added that she enjoyed seeing everyone in their holiday attire and watching the kid’s excitement, which matched her own.

“It’s been great,” said Stringfield on the day. “We’ve had a really great turnout. It’s a gorgeous day and I think everybody’s having a really good time.”

The Central California Coast Garden Railroad Society was

put in a couple of different places,” said Post Commander Chris Rohrberg.

Post 50 worked with the city in what some call a contentious battle to get the legion into its own building separate from the Paso Robles Senior Center, which is what the city originally intended.

“We actually fought to get two separate buildings and on Oct. 29, 2002, this building was dedicated by Brigadier [General] Glenn Muggelberg,” added Rohrberg.

The post then grew to include the American Legion Riders Chapter 50, chartered in 2007; American Legion

United States. He received his Army Pilot wings on Feb. 8, 1944, at Douglas, Arizona, and was soon assigned to the 8th Army Air Corps as a co-pilot flying the four-engine B-17G Flying Fortress bomber with the 729th squadron of the 452nd Bombardment Group in the European Theater of Operations. The group’s motto was “Labor Ad Futurum” — Work for the Future. Their base would be station no. 142 at Deopham Green. just north of the small village of Attleborough in northeast England. The 452nd Bomber Group departed the United States with their planes and flew to Greenland, then Iceland, and on to Valley Wales, England where they arrived July 20, 1944.

On his first mission, Hamon thought that he might never make it home again. Several B-17s were lost from his group and in his mind, it would be just a matter of time before he too would go down. At that time, aircrews were required to complete 25 missions before

P.O.

said Pagnini, who dreamed of being CMSF Queen since she was 6 years old.

Of the Teddy Bear Affair, Holt said, “I love it. it’s so cute, and watching all of the performances, I am obsessed with it. And being able to see the little kids go and see Santa and the Queen and King is just so special.”

Rutherford echoed Holt’s excitement for the event: “This is really amazing to see all the little kids be able to interact with each other and with Santa and the elves.”

Out of all of the events the CMSF court attended, both Holt and Pagnini enjoyed volunteering at the Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles’s Day of Giving

also there with multiple holiday trains set up on an oblong track in the middle of the zoo.

The society got involved with the zoo due to Mark Edwards, who is a garden railroader in his spare time. He also does the nutrition for the zoo as well as working with them in other capacities.

“I convinced our group to do layouts for the zoo twice a year,” said Edwards, who is a member

Auxiliary Unit 50, chartered in 2009; and the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 50, chartered in 2011.

Post 50 currently has 151 members and are dedicated to making regular donations to local nonprofits including Paso Cares, Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles, SLO Food Bank, Honor Flight, and more.

“Thank you all for being here and celebrating with us,” Rohrberg addressed the crowded room.

Two donations were made that will help fund Post 50’s Be the One initiative.

Lt. Commander Select Ret. TOPGUN Instructor Hal “Bull” Schmitt, who is also owner of Volatus Wine, made a donation on behalf of 46 West Wineries.

being allowed to return to the U.S. It was not until his 22nd mission, just three short of completing his tour, did the odds catch up with Hamon. It was on Christmas Eve, 1944, that his plane, “Dorothy C” #44-8249, received a very serious direct hit from ground artillery. His actions in the next few minutes would determine the destiny of so many things both present and future.

The Battle of the Bulge, Germany’s last great offensive move to try and retake the port of Amsterdam, had been underway for two weeks. The target assignment for the 452nd on this mission would be a weapons factory in Darmstadt, a city in western Germany just south of Frankfurt. This air mission flown on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 1944, would be noted in World War II history as the most Allied aircraft put up in a single day against Germany. The winter of 1944 was also noted for being the coldest in recent memory, and poor weather had grounded the Mighty 8th Air Force for some time. But on this day, the weather had cleared over most

• pasoroblespress.com

on Saturday, Dec. 14.

“I felt really awesome and special to be a part of something that big,” said Pagnini.

Rutherford added, “I thought it was so amazing to see and help out with all the presents. There are so many families that were so grateful and it was so amazing to be a part of it.”

Unfortunately, Holt was unable to attend the Day of Giving, but said the Teddy Bear Affair ended up being her favorite holiday event she attended this December.

“Seeing that joy on their face and then also being able to meet everyone here and just community coming together I’ve enjoyed,” Holt said.

of the Central California Coast Garden Railroad Society.

The train display is a collaboration between the society itself and the individual members.

Edwards said that the group’s members decorate their trains and trolleys or choose their favorite holiday-themed cars to display on the tracks.

“We have members from our from Paso all the way down to Santa Ynez,” he said. “They all

“We were just happy today to donate to your initiative. To get some gaming systems for younger vets,” Schmitt said. “We know there’s a lot of problems going on there, they need little sets of community and different missions, so hopefully this donation would help that out.”

The mission of The American Legion’s Be the One initiative is to reduce the rate of veteran suicide. The nationwide program is working to lessen the stigma associated with mental health treatment and empowering everyone to take appropriate action when a veteran or servicemember may be at risk.

Leon Tackitt of the nonprofit Pleasant Valley Wine Trail also made a donation to the initiative. Both donations

of Europe and a “Maximum Effort” mission was called for by Allied Command for all American and British fighter/ bomber groups in England. It was planned to be a powerful blow to Germany, and it would be. Everything that could fly against the enemy would be launched to either resupply our troops surrounded within the Battle of the Bulge area around Bastogne via air drops or to strike targets within Nazi Germany on this very cold winter day.

Hamon’s plane was regularly selected to be the No. 1 lead plane for 452nd missions because it was one of a few B-17s assigned to the group that was equipped with PFF or “Pathfinder.” This apparatus was a special ground scanning radar device attached to the belly of the bomber in place of the ball turret. The recently developed electronic gear was able to roughly indicate buildings and cities on the ground even through an overcast cloud cover. Its purpose was to deliver bomb loads more accurately when there was not enough visibility to target normally from their altitude

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Built over 100 years ago, the Park Ballroom allows its guests to step back in time. Tables were set up throughout the room, with Moye on the stage, choreographing the day. “Tea” and cookies were served for each of the guests. It takes much time and dedication from volunteers to make the event — hosted by the Main Street Association — happen.

Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus the Snow King and Queen, were available at the tea for photo opportunities, followed by a live recital of “Ten Little Angels” on guitar by Nick Breton. For more information on the Paso Robles Main Street Association’s events, visit pasoroblesdowntown.org

love coming here to the zoo and supporting the zoo and their conservation and education mission by bringing something that’s a little different and fun here in the center of the zoo for people to enjoy their day.”

The crowds, full of all ages also enjoyed the trains in between the animals opening their gifts. Stringfield stated that the gifts enrich the animal’s lives and make their day-to-day

made a huge stride in the initiative for the post, allowing them to meet their goal of four gaming systems for Be the One.

According to the Post Service Officer Tim Francis, veteran suicides are running between 17 and 22 per day.

“The second part of that is gaming ... we want to see the veterans not sit in their room, close the windows and the blinds, and play violent games by themselves because they become introverts ... despondent, and then they become depressed, then they’re on antidepressants. That sometimes leads to suicide,” explains Francis.

By having gaming systems at the Legion, hopes are to have supervision in case signs of anxiety or something

of 25,000 feet. The plane also carried an extra navigator to help lead the squadron to the target as precisely as possible. The two navigators, and the “Micky” (PFF) operator would work together to get the bombardier close enough to the target so that he could make final steering corrections through the integrated Norden Bombsight. Upon arriving at the target, the No. 1 lead plane would begin the bomb drop by releasing a special bomb that also trailed a line of smoke all the way to the target along with their other bombs. It would be a visible signal to all other aircraft in the formation to drop or “toggle” their bomb loads on the No. 1 lead plane’s release.

The target area this day was forecast to have dense haze, which would make visual bombing poor. And so, it was for the Dec. 24 mission to Darmstadt that John Hamon’s crew would again be selected for the lead position for this Maximum Effort mission to Germany. The regular pilot, Lt. Jay Kenworthy, stayed in the pilot’s position and the group commander, Major

lives better and more fun. Most of the gifts can used over and over again by the animals too.

“I would just like to thank everyone who bought the animals gifts and everyone who came today,” Stringfield added. “It’s just really special for us to have the community be so supportive.”

To find out more about the Charles Paddock Zoo go to charlespaddockzoo.org.

even worse shows up in a veteran while playing. The other hope is to drive more younger members to join the Legion. Right now, Post 50 is hosting a membership drive where they are picking up a member’s first year of their registration money for free.

Speaking of new membership — Post 50 gained a special member on Sunday. Santa Claus has been known to drop by the Legion from time to time and help out when he can. What better way to celebrate 100 years of the American Legion Post 50 than to have Santa officially become a member?

You can learn more about the American Legion Post 50 at pasoroblesamericanlegion.org/#f4f7a1824aa7-4fde-bd88-16226c32f7f4

Carl Thomajan, would take the co-pilot’s right seat normally filled by Hamon. Thomajan would act as command pilot for the entire squadron. It was a fortuitous change that would give Hamon a chance to save his life several hours later.

Co-pilot Hamon, as the second officer, would reposition to the rear of the B-17GSH into the very small and confined tail gunners’ position and serve as the Formation Officer for the 36-plane wing of the 729th Squadron. Kneeling as a tail gunner would do, this position had a wide viewing angle both up and down and side to side. The formation officer’s duty was to report to the commander on the condition of the higher, lower, and (their) middle V formations of B-17s trailing behind them, the flak accuracy, and enemy fighter observations.

Environmental conditions in the B-17 were such that aircrews had to fight the extreme cold of 49 degrees below zero and the lack of oxygen in the thin air of 25,000 feet. This particular day’s mission was scheduled to last over nine hours from take-

off to landing. Aircrews wore over their uniform a heated coverall that had electrical heating wires woven into the garment. It was to be plugged into the plane’s electrical system for additional heat. Over this heated suit, they wore their sheep skin jackets, pants, boots, gloves, maywest water life preserver, parachute harness, and headphone caps. They were required to a plug in their breathing masks into the aircraft’s oxygen system after reaching 10,000 feet in altitude to avoid hypoxia. The bulky gear did offer some protection from the extreme cold and thin air. Due to the thick outer layer of clothing and the tight conditions of some of the battle various stations in the B-17, it was routine for aircrew not to entirely join their parachute directly to their body harness. Rather, the crew would connect just one of the two risers of the parachute pack to themselves to remain connected to the lifesaving device yet still have freedom of movement.

This is the first in a fourpart series on John Hamon Sr.’s amazing story.

GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

PASO ROBLES

City Hall holiday closures and important reminders

The City of Paso Robles would like to remind residents of upcoming holiday hours. Paso Robles City Hall, Library, Centennial Park, and Administrative Offices will be closed on the following dates:

• • Wednesday, January 1, 2025 (New Year’s Day)

• Library closes at 5 pm on 24th and 31st

Normal operating hours will resume the following day. For non-emergency issues, please call the Paso Robles Police Department NonEmergency Line at (805) 237-6464. You can also use the City’s Mobile Reporting App to report issues like potholes, graffiti, or other nonurgent concerns. It can be found at prcity.com/1053/MyPaso-Request-Tracker. For emergencies, always dial 9-1-1

Trash, recycling, and green waste collection will be delayed by one day during Christmas and New Year’s holiday weeks. For more information, visit: prwaste.com/residential/ and scroll to the end of the page. The City appreciates your understanding and wishes you a safe and joyful holiday season.

Central Coast Cooking Show returns in February 2025

The Central Coast Cooking Show is coming back in Feb. 2025. The show is currently looking for more chefs to join the experience, and this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

The Central Coast Cooking Show is a live cooking experience once a month at Idler’s Home in Paso Robles. Each month they highlight different local chefs, wineries, breweries, non-profit organizations, and more with this amazing event.

This show highlights the chefs as they demonstrate their cooking skills right in front of the show’s guests. Each course will be served with a matching wine pairing from a local winery. The cooking show also showcases many other hospitality vendors, including decor from beautiful florists and rentals from local rental companies.

The Central Coast Cooking Show is already starting to fill up for 2025, so reach out ASAP to secure your spot. Please contact Brigitte by email: brig@centralcoastpartyhelpers.com, or phone: (805)-238-7979. They look forward to another great year for the Central Coast Cooking Show and hope to see you there.

For more information regarding the show go to: centralcoastpartyhelpers. com/cooking-show

ATASCADERO

Police arrest man for embezzlement

Detectives from the Atascadero Police Department arrested Robert Vasquez, 37, on Dec. 19, for embezzlement following a months-long investigation. Vasquez, the Chief Operations Officer of Scott O’Brien Fire and Safety, is accused of misappropriating $423,460 over nearly five years from January 2019 to October 2023.

The company owner reported the suspected embezzlement in May 2024, prompting a thorough inquiry. Investigators found that Vasquez allegedly used company funds for personal expenses, including rent, credit card bills, and unauthorized cash withdrawals.

Vasquez, a resident of Paso Robles, was booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $20,000. The Atascadero Police Department reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the community from financial crimes.

Community members needed for Atascadero’s Citizens’ Sales Tax Oversight Committee

The City of Atascadero Citizens’ Sales Tax Oversight Committee (CSTOC) was formed in 2015, after the passage of the 2014 local sales tax

NEWS BRIEFS

measure, Measure F-14. The Committee also participates in the review of annual expenditures from tax revenue collected from Measure D-20, the Essential Services Transactions and Use Tax Measure. CSTOC has a total of nine members, seven of which are appointed by local Atascadero community groups, and two “at-large” members who are appointed to the committee by the City Council.

The City is currently seeking to fill three community group-appointed positions on CSTOC. Members of local non-profit community groups interested in serving should contact their community group leaders.

Representatives of all Atascadero community groups who are interested in appointing members to CSTOC are encouraged to submit an Interest Form no later than Friday, Jan. 10, 2025 at 5 p.m. Only those community groups whose member term is expiring or who do not have a current member on the Committee may submit an Interest Form. The Interest Form is available on the City’s website homepage at atascadero.org under the “News” section, or by calling (805) 470-3400 to arrange for a hardcopy of the form. Members of CSTOC are not required to be professional engineers, accountants or finance managers. The only qualifications necessary are to be a resident of Atascadero and to have an interest in serving the community in which they live. Interested parties should be individuals who are willing to invest a little of their time as a representative. The City will assist members of CSTOC by providing them with all relevant information regarding the sales tax programs, Atascadero’s roads program, pavement engineering and other related information and materials.

A recruitment process is also now underway for the two at-large, Council-appointed positions to CSTOC.

Any Atascadero resident who is interested in serving is encouraged to submit an application. The application is available on the City’s website homepage at atascadero.org under the “News” section or by calling (805) 470-3400 to arrange for a hardcopy of the form. The candidates for the at-large positions will be interviewed by the City Council in January.

Questions regarding appointments to the CSTOC should be directed to the City Manager’s office at (805) 470-3400.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Jury finds San Miguel woman guilty of assault with a baseball bat

District Attorney Dan Dow announced that Janine Laurice Cesena, 33,was convicted by a San Luis Obispo County jury of assault with a deadly weapon and causing great bodily injury to her victim when she used a baseball bat during a 2023 attack in San Miguel.

During the trial, the jury heard evidence that on October 12, 2023, at about 9:54 p.m., defendant Janine Cesena hit the male victim with a baseball bat in the chest and on his head in the parking lot of San Miguel’s Dollar General store.

The assault caused the victim to experience a brain bleed, including hearing and vision loss, as well as an inability to concentrate. The attack was unprovoked and the Dollar General’s video surveillance evidence indicated that the defendant was lying in wait in the parking lot to surprise the victim with her vicious attack.

Evidence revealed that the motive for the attack was that the defendant was under the mistaken belief that the victim had cheated with the defendant’s girlfriend. The law enforcement investigation and the evidence presented during the trial disproved that claim.

After the assault, Cesena fled and stayed with a friend until her arrest on October 15, 2023. In addition to the assault charge, the jury also found true several aggravating factors in the

attack. The factors include that Cesena personally inflicted great bodily injury to the victim; the crimes involved great violence, threat of great bodily harm, or other acts disclosing a high degree of cruelty or viciousness; and the victim was particularly vulnerable.

“We appreciate the jury’s time and service as they carefully considered all evidence before holding the defendant accountable for her actions,” said District Attorney Dan Dow. “This unprovoked violent crime was shocking, and our hearts go out to the victim who sustained serious injuries and whose testimony was heard loud and clear by the jury.”

Cesena is scheduled to be sentenced January 15, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. in Department 9 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court, the Honorable Crystal T. Seiler presiding. Cesena faces a possible maximum sentence of seven years in state prison.

This case was investigated by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Kalina Laleva. Victim support services were provided by Victim Advocate Divina Diaz.

LAFCO approves divestiture plan for fire service in Oceano

The Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) has approved the divestiture of fire service responsibilities from the Oceano Community Services District (OCSD) to the County of San Luis Obispo who will contract with the Five Cities Fire Authority (FCFA), ensuring that fire protection services in Oceano will remain uninterrupted and at the same high service levels. The agreement, reached by OCSD, the County of San Luis Obispo, and FCFA, will go into effect once the OCSD formally exits its role as the fire service provider in early 2025.

Under this new arrangement, the Five Cities Fire Authority will continue to serve the Oceano community through its Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach fire stations. Response times are expected to remain consistent, between 7 to 9 minutes from the Arroyo Grande station and 7 to 11 minutes from the Grover Beach station, providing the same high-quality service that residents have come to expect. There will be no reduction in service levels, and the move ensures that fire protection resources remain available to the Oceano community without disruption.

“This agreement represents a significant milestone for Oceano and the broader region,” said LAFCO Executive Director Rob Fitzroy. “When the OCSD announced it could no longer provide fire protection services, there was considerable concern about the future of fire services in the area. However, through collaboration between LAFCO, the County, OCSD, and the FCFA, we’ve reached a solution that not only preserves the quality of service but also ensures the fiscal responsibility of the County.”

The divestiture process began after the OCSD Board of Directors voted in January 2023 to cease providing fire services due to financial constraints, following the failure of two revenue-generating ballot initiatives. In response, the County has formally assumed the role of successor agency and entered into a service agreement with FCFA to maintain service levels. The closure of the Oceano Fire Station pre-dated the County taking over fire service and was a result of the OCSD’s inability to pay for fire service. For the past year and a half all fire personnel have been responding to incidents from the Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach stations.

“This agreement is a win for the Oceano community, ensuring stable fire services while minimizing fiscal impacts to the County,” said LAFCO Commissioner and Fourth District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding. “The collaborative efforts of the County, the OCSD, and the FCFA have made

this transition possible, and we are confident this will continue to benefit the residents of Oceano and South County.”

The final steps of the divestiture process were completed when LAFCO protest hearings were held without protest, thus formalizing the transition and ensuring that the community of Oceano continues to receive high-quality fire services.

Oregon woman arrested for vehicular manslaughter

On July 23, at 12 p.m., San Luis Obispo Police officers responded to S. Higuera and Fontana for a reported injured bicyclist. It was later determined there were two bicyclists that had been struck by an unknown vehicle that fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival. One of the bicyclists, Saul Goldberg, age 87 and a resident of Avila Beach, was transported to a local hospital for care but sadly passed away on July 31, from his injuries. The second bicyclist, Martin Suits, age 74 and a resident of Avila Beach, was also moderately injured and received care at a local hospital.

Within minutes of the collision, another collision occurred in a mobile home park on the 3800 block of S. Higuera where Vanessa Noblitt, age 44 and a resident of Bend, Oregon hit a parked car and was ultimately arrested for DUI and hit and run (property damage only). Noblitt was found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) four times over the legal limit. Soon after, San Luis Obispo Police detectives and the Severe Collision Investigative Detail (SCID) team began to investigate both collisions as possibly related. Through the investigation, detectives obtained evidence identifying Noblitt and her vehicle as being responsible for the fatal collision on S. Higuera.

Detectives served search warrants at Noblitt’s residence in Bend, Oregon on August 6, where several items of evidence were seized, including Noblitt’s vehicle, for forensic processing. Detectives continued to review evidence in collaboration with the San Luis Obispo District Attorney’s Office.

On December 9, the DA’s Office filed the charges listed below and on December 11, 2024, a warrant was issued for Noblitt’s arrest:

• PC191.5(B) Felony Vehicular Manslaughter

VC23153(A)(B) Felony DUI Causing Injury

VC23578 Felony DUI with a Blood Alcohol Level .15% or Higher, 2 counts

• VC12022.7(A) Felony Inflict

Great Bodily Injury, 2 counts

• VC20002(A) Misdemeanor Hit and Run Property Damage

Noblitt was arrested by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and is in custody in Oregon awaiting extradition to San Luis Obispo County. Once booked into SLO County Jail, Noblitt’s bail will be set at $160,000.

Woman arrested for narcotics and child endangerment

On Friday, Oct. 25, in collaboration with SLO County Probation, officers conducted a probation compliance check on the 900 block of Olive Street. During the check, Crystal Kulinski was contacted and found to be in possession of a substantial quantity of narcotics. Kulinski was taken into custody for violation of her probation and child welfare services was called to take custody of her 6-month-old child. Subsequent testing showed the child to have been exposed to both methamphetamine and fentanyl. Kulinski is being charged the following and she is in custody at this time: PC 273a(a) – felony child endangerment H&S 11351 – possession of narcotic controlled substance for sales • H&S 11377(a) – possession of methamphetamine

• H&S 11375(b)(2) – possession of controlled substance

SLO in Motion update

With the holidays approaching the SLO in Motion team would like to thank everyone for their patience and support as they worked on neighborhood enhancement projects to make our City safer, more accessible, and better connected. Check out what they have going on in the upcoming weeks: Work to upgrade and add more safety improvements to key streets and intersections is still underway. See what areas we’re working on:

• They are wrapping up the installation of new piping and anticipate starting paving work on Johnson Avenue from Iris Street and making our way up towards Bishop Street as part of the Johnson Waterline Project. Work is anticipated to begin at the end of the week next week and will likely take place from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to get a significant start on work while schools in the area are out for winter break.

Commuters can expect traffic impacts due to flagging, lane reductions, and lane shifting on Johnson Avenue.

They will continue adding street striping, markings, and median work on Johnson Avenue and Grand Avenue. Commuters can expect no parking signs along the streets where we’re striping, traffic impacts due to flagging, lane shifting, and intermittent work in the middle of the road.

To view the project map, please visit our Transportation, Paving, & Mobility Improvements at slocity.org/ government/department-directory/ public-works/construction-and-traffic-updates/slo-in-motion/transportation-improvements

New monarch butterfly displays land at SLO Mission Plaza

Mission Plaza in San Luis Obispo now has educational panels and a native flower garden to inform visitors and locals of the plight of the western monarch butterfly.

The panels come at a timely moment for the species, as western monarch butterfly numbers are signaling one of the lowest population counts since the count’s inception in 1997. As a result, earlier this month on Dec. 10, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) proposed listing monarch butterflies as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

“We only have 197 as of the last count, which is the lowest count recorded in our (Pismo State Beach Monarch Grove) history,” said Danielle Bronson, State Park Cultural and Interpretive Programs Manager, Oceano Dunes District.

Central Coast State Parks Association in collaboration with Xerces Society and the City of San Luis Obispo invite locals and visitors of SLO to visit the new panels to learn about this ecologically important, culturally significant, and generally fascinating member of the SLO community. The Mission Plaza panels were generously sponsored by the Thomas E. and Mary Kathryn Eltzroth Fund. In addition to the panels, a native plant nectar garden has also been installed around the panels to highlight the flowering plant species that are beneficial to monarch butterflies and other pollinators.

Panels identify crucial overwintering and nectaring locations for western monarchs and provide the public with the most accurate information approved by leading agencies like State Parks, CDFW, and the Xerces Society, as well as efforts to restore their populations.

In 2021, Central Coast State Parks Association created the Western Monarch Trail, a collaborative project between several environmental agencies to provide consistent and accurate messaging to conserve and protect the western monarch butterfly.

Milton Claiborne Culver was born in Glendale, California, and was the youngest son of Lloyd Culver and Garnet Peters Culver.

He had an idyllic childhood and grew up riding horses, water skiing in Lake Arrowhead, getting his pilot’s license at the age of 16, and volunteering as a ski patrol at Snow Valley Ski Resort. Perhaps it was this early sense of freedom

Dorothy Lucille Claassen, age 96, of Morro Bay, CA, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Dorothy was a beautiful woman of faith who enjoyed the simple things in life and got the most joy out of spending time with her family and being of service to others. She was a devoted homemaker and an avid baker, and she enjoyed

and independence that fostered his adventurous spirit and ability to dream BIG. One of his earliest dreams was to become a cowboy like John Wayne, who he truly believed was a real cowboy. Milton started this journey by enrolling in an Agricultural Management program at UC Davis. During his time there, he founded an Aviation club and met his lifelong best friend, Norm Tacy. Over the following decades, they would enjoy many adventures together, including a

CCSPA as the fiscal sponsor placed over 10 panels in overwintering habitats along the central coast to protect the migration route of the western monarch butterfly. The purpose — to place educational signs at critical sites along this route that provide shelter for butterflies during the winter, nectar to feed migrating monarchs and native milkweed to feed their larvae.

This project, launched by the Central Coast State Parks Association, was handed over to the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation in March 2024, and remains a collaborative effort.

“The City of San Luis Obispo has signed up for the Mayors Monarch Pledge through the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) which identifies several program areas to help support this iconic species. From habitat creation and rehabilitation, updates to City operations to protect and support monarch butterflies to public education opportunities, we have been active in all these program areas to protect and support the monarch butterflies that move through our community so future generations can see these beautiful butterflies come back to our area.”

Freddy Otte, SLO City Biologist.

Man arrested for rape and possession of child sexual abuse material

On Oct. 27, a female contacted the San Luis Obispo Police Department to report she had been raped on Oct. 24, at an address in the 1900 block of Santa Barbara Street in San Luis Obispo. The victim knew the suspect and identified him as David Randall Quintero. Quintero was also being investigated by the SLOPD Detective Bureau for an unrelated case regarding possession of child pornography.

During the course of both investigations, detectives obtained search and arrest warrants, and on November 21, at 8:20 am, detectives executed both warrants at Quintero’s residence. He was placed under arrest and booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail. During the search warrant, detectives seized evidence for forensic examination and found more than 1500 images of child sexual abuse material. The San Luis Obispo District Attorney’s Office has since formally charged Quintero with the following crimes:

watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. She lived her life with a quiet grace and strength and will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Kathy Claassen, granddaughters Megan Baldwin, Mallory Diepenbrock (Arlen), Michelle Claassen, and Sara Hernandez, and great-grandsons Garrett and Daniel Baldwin, who brought tremendous joy

month-long road trip to Alaska.

His next dream was to marry the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Sandra Wilson. Sandy equally matched his zest for life and, after they wed in 1951, embarked on an adventure to try their hand in cattle ranching. They settled on the Razor Ranch near Zzyck Road in Baker. Essentially, the middle of nowhere.

After enduring several years of extreme heat, droughts, rattlesnakes, and finding a scorpion in their son’s crib, they returned to Southern California. Milton hung up his cowboy hat and put on a construction hat. Another son was added to the family, and he built high-rise hotels while continuing to search for an affordable ranch to farm.

Milton struck gold in Paso Robles, where you could purchase land for “30 cents per acre” in 1957. So the story

• PC311.11(A) Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material — Felony

• PC261(A)(4) Rape of an Unconscious Person — Felony Quintero remains in custody with a bail amount of $400,000.

Two arrested for attempted arson and conspiracy

On Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 10:52 p.m., a reporting party contacted the San Luis Obispo Police Department to report that a person, identified as 26-year-old Rachel Tomassi, was threatening to cause harm to female acquaintance. The reporting party provided the officers with a description of Tomassi and her vehicle.

Officers were dispatched to the 1700 block of Corralitos Avenue, where the female was staying. As they arrived, officers located a small fire burning brightly in the middle of the street and observed a vehicle with the same description as Tomassi’s leaving the immediate area. Officers quickly extinguished the fire and then located a bottle filled with gasoline near the front door of the female acquaintance’s residence. Officers determined the fire was likely a makeshift wick that fell out of the bottle as it was being thrown at the residence.

Officers located and stopped the suspect vehicle near the intersection of Osos and Buchon streets and contacted the occupants, Tomassi and her passenger, 19-year-old Kamakani Huihui. Further investigation revealed Tomassi and Huihui were in possession of an unused “Molotov cocktail” bottle similar to the one found at the victim’s residence. San Luis Obispo Police Department detectives responded and gathered additional evidence, and Tomassi and Huihui were arrested and booked into San Luis Obispo County Jail on the following charges:

• PC455 Attempted ArsonFelony

• PC182(A)(1) ConspiracyFelony

• PC453(A)- Possession of Explosives, Flammable MatterFelony PC18710(A) Possession of a Destructive Device- Felony

Bail has been set at $300,000 for both Tomassi and Huihui, and they are still in custody at the time of this publication.

and happiness to her life. She is preceded in death by her husband, John Claassen, son Douglas Claassen, daughter Karen Hernandez, and grandson-in-law Eric Baldwin.

A graveside service will be held for Dorothy on Monday, December 30, at 11:00 am at Willow Creek Mennonite Cemetery in Paso Robles, CA, with a gathering to follow immediately after.

Those wishing to make

goes. A third son was added to their brood, and over the next 50 years, Milton dabbled in farming and contributed to the development of Paso Robles.

Milton and Sandy realized their dream of creating a community theater group, Pioneer Players. Milton created theater sets, and every once in a while, they allowed him to act in a play as long as there was no singing involved.

He was an active member of the JayCees, The Farm Bureau, and Pioneer Day Volunteers. He traveled extensively with his remarkable friends, and he continued to play poker every other Monday until his final days when he could barely see his cards.

His numerous talents included restoring classic cars, carpentry, making silver jewelry, gardening, fixing just about anything, and regaling

City announces end-of-year office closures

The City of San Luis Obispo is preparing to temporarily close public offices, public counters, and certain facilities at the end of the year from Tuesday, Dec. 24, through Wednesday, January 1, 2025, reopening on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

The best way to report general issues within city limits or to request city services during this time is via Ask SLO, slocity.org/Ask. City services that are essential to public health and safety, such as water, wastewater, fire, police, and transit services, will continue normal operations.

Below are instructions and deadlines for service from specific departments regarding upcoming end-of-year closures.

City Administration and City Clerk: For questions for City Administration or the City Clerk’s Office, please email cityclerk@ slocity.org

City Attorney: Contact city_attorney@slocity.org and a response will be provided on the first business day (MondayFriday, not including Christmas Day or New Year’s Day), following receipt of the request.

Community Development Department:

Building inspection services during this end-of-year closure must be scheduled through the city’s self-service portal (infoslo. slocity.org) by Dec. 20.

• Permit applications submitted after Dec. 20 will not be processed until after the New Year. Apply at the self-service portal infoslo. slocity.org.

Finance Department:

• Visit slocity.org/pay to access links to our online payment systems.

Fire Department:

• To report an emergency, call 9-1-1.

To request non-emergency fire department assistance, call Non-Emergency Dispatch at (805) 781-7312.

• Fire Permit applications submitted after Dec. 20 will not be processed until after the New

a donation in Dorothy’s memory are encouraged to reach out to the family to learn about the causes closest to her heart.

In Loving Memory

in telling old stories.

Finally, his everlasting dream was to be reunited with his beloved wife, who passed away in 2022. The world was a lot less brighter without her in it, and there is peace in knowing that they are back together sharing a laugh.

Milton is survived by his three sons, Fred, Bill, and Mitch. Their wives, Denise, Robin, and Stella, respectively, five grandchildren: Kristen Scott, Jana Lucas, Lyndsay Olson, Austin Culver, Jessa Culver, and seven great-grandchildren.

Milton will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, inspirational grandfather, legendary great-grandfather, loyal friend, proud citizen, and an honest, true blue cowboy.

A celebration of life will take place at the Pioneer Museum on February 9th, 2025, from 12-3 pm.

Year. Apply at the self-service portal infoslo.slocity.org

Parks and Recreation Department: Register online for activities, classes, and programs at SLOrecActivities.org

Request Parks maintenance via Ask SLO at slocity.org/Ask

• For SLO Swim Center and Laguna Lake Golf Course holiday hours, please visit sloparksandrec. org

Police Department:

To report an emergency, call 9-1-1

To request non-emergency police department assistance, call Non-Emergency Dispatch at (805) 781-7312.

• Records and the police department lobby will be closed on Dec. 24 at noon (open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.), closed all day on Dec. 25, closed at noon on Dec. 31 (open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.) and closed all day on Jan. 1.

Public Works Department:

• The best way to report issues related to public streets and facilities within city limits or to request Public Works services during this time is via Ask SLO, slocity.org/Ask

• SLO Transit will run on a modified service schedule from Dec. 23 to Jan. 5 for more information visit slotransit.org or call SLO Transit Dispatch by phone at (805) 541-2877.

The Parking Services office at 1260 Chorro St. will be closed from Tuesday, Dec. 24 through Jan. 1, 2025.

Utilities Department: Limited staff will be available by phone at (805) 781-7215 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the closure period, with the exception Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Please note, staff will be unavailable for recycle plan approvals, permit finals, and in-person appointments. To report a water or sewer emergency, please call Non-Emergency Dispatch at (805) 781-7312.

• For automated assistance with your utility bill, please call (805) 781-7133 or go to slocity.org/paywaterbill

JOHN FREDERICK

59, of Grover Beach

DOROTHY L. CLAASSEN 1927-2024

MILTON C. CULVER 1931-2024

HURLEY,

passed away on December 10th 2024. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

BARBARA “BOBBIE” HURD, 81 of Grover Beach passed away on December 14th 2024. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

PHIL PAONESSA, 71, of Arroyo Grande passed away on December 15th 2024. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach. DEATHS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DECEMBER EVENTS

NOV 7-JAN 6

ANNUAL WINTER FAIRE

& JURIED CRAFT SHOW

Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main Street, Morro Bay, Morro Bay Art Association is proud to present The Annual Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show, featuring a collection of exceptional paintings, photography and fine crafts, spanning a variety of artistic mediums from traditional to contemporary. Crafts include fiber, wood, glass, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and more. There will be a recep-

tion November 10 from 2–4 pm.

DEC 29

CITY PARK MENORAH

LIGHTING

Paso Robles City Park

4:30pm

Join us for the annual City Park Menorah Lighting in Paso Robles. This public event celebrates Chanukah, light over darkness, with a free gift for advance registrants. In light of recent events, there will be a strong police presence.

DEC 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE

BONFIRE AND CONCERT

Paso Robles City Park

7–11 pm

As one of the only community-wide, family-friendly, free New Year’s Eve celebrations in the region, this event has become a local favorite. New Year’s countdown begins at 9 pm to coincide with midnight on the east coast.

JANUARY EVENTS

JAN 1 POLAR

Polar Bear Plunge is a celebration of fitness, nature, a New Year, camaraderie, and still having dessert.

POLAR BEAR DIP

Cayucos Pier

12 pm

Take the plunge at their 45th Annual

Carlin Soule Memorial Polar Bear Dip. Join them late morning for festivities that include music, dancing, prizes, and participant certificates.

JAN 20

MARTIN LUTHER KING

CELEBRATION

Paso Robles City Park

12 p.m. Join

JAN 31

Photos by Camille DeVaul

Photos by Rick Evans

Framing Faces and Perfecting Edges with Precision Optics

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS

ATASCADERO — The Specs by Kyla family has added a new member to their team. This time, it comes in the form of an optical edger made by Santinelli. The machine will not only make the process of getting you your glasses quicker but also allow a more hands-on experience with your frames.

“I’m excited to have it [the machine], and it’s always been a goal that I’ve had to cut lenses, and none of the jobs that I’ve worked at have ever done it. So it feels like this dream that I’ve had is finally coming true,” stated Kyla Skinner, owner and optician at Specs by Kyla. “I’m proud that my business is able to support that, and it also feels very complete. Instead of me just doing the frame portion and measurements, this is kind of the full circle, and it’s bringing all of my knowledge in the optical field and completing it.”

Before owning the edger, Kyla would have to send her customer’s chosen frame after ordering their prescription and sending it electronically to her chosen lab. Then, the frame would head out to the lab in the mail, where the lenses would be made, edged, and placed in the frame before being sent back to Specs. Kyla said that that process would normally take around two weeks for people to get their new glasses.

“This will speed up the process. Usually, I can get lens blanks within a couple of days, cut them in-house, and have them ready, hopefully, within a week,” added Kyla excitedly.

Your prescription still goes out to the lab, and the lenses, which Kyla says look like hockey pucks with thick edges. But now, with their own optical edger, Specs can make your lenses fit inside the fantastically fun and one-of-a-kind frames that

you picked out in Kyla’s store.

“We pick a frame, we put the frame in what’s called a tracer. Its little robot arm comes out, traces the shape of the frame digitally, and then it transfers that information to the edger, that actually cuts

the lens down to the exact shape of the frame and will polish the edges. Make everything look nice and finished, and then we can take the lens out of that machine and snap it into the frame that you selected,” Kyla added about the process.

Kyla also told me that she’s excited to be able to minimize the shop’s environmental footprint and make sure everything is done to her standards when handing you the finished product. It also means that Kyla’s husband, Jeff, has become a bigger part of the business, as he is now in charge of running the optical edger.

Jeff started working at the shop one day a week in January, helping Kyla with accounting, and now he’s been working the majority of the week. The husband-wife team is hoping that with the purchase of the edger, Jeff will be in the shop full-time sooner rather than later.

“He’s a contractor, and he’s very good at woodworking. That’s his passion, and so it’s amazing watching him behind that machine. It’s like he gets it because he’s done so much of that with wood. I like working with people. I want to be out front helping people, just trying on frames and connecting with people. He can get back there and tune everything out, dial into that machine and that prescription, and just focus on it,” said Kyla. “It’s pretty cool to watch how instintually he understands what needs to be done, even though he’s fairly new to optical. Between the two of us, we’re going to be a good pair, as far as me helping people and him doing the backend [stuff] and making it happen. So that’s exciting, and I’m glad that my business has grown to this point where we can work together and the business can help support our family.”

For anyone who’s looking to get new glasses for the holiday season, Kyla added that even though she doesn’t take vision insurance, both flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts can be used to purchase glasses from her. She can also submit out-of-network claims for insurance benefits. So, go snag a pair of new glasses and see what that machine can do for yourself.

The San Miguel Flouring Mill, established in October 1886

Incorporated in 1903, the mill thrived for over a century before its closure in 2022

By LYNNE SCHMITZ Guest Contributor

SAN MIGUEL — One of the oldest businesses in San Miguel, the San Miguel Flouring Mill, was built by a pioneer, Robert Work, in October 1886. This family still has deep roots in both north SLO and southern Monterey County. San Miguel was the first stop in SLO County as rails were built south by Southern Pacific Railroad. Just one week after the railroad arrived in San Miguel, the lumber to build the Mill was delivered by train and construction commenced.

The business was incorporated in 1903 and thrived until in recent years the decline of grain farming drastically affected their ability to continue. It was finally closed in 2022, but the big red building still stands strong along the railroad tracks — now owned by Union Pacific — in the middle of town. The Van Horn name is forever and indelibly attached to the Mill.

I had a great fun visit with Leslie Van Horn Parker of Atascadero and we reminisced about the old families we both grew up with in our small town. Her mother, Vivian Van Horn, is the owner of the big red mill. The roots of their family tree began to grow in the area with the advent of Leslie and Mike’s maternal great-great-grandparents. In 1875, Swiss immigrant to California, Otto

Wyss, settled with his wife, Emily, in the Klau area in Adelaida. Their daughter, Emilie Wyss, was born in 1878. She met and married George Van Horn, whom she met at school in Santa Clara, and they become Leslie and Mike’s great-grandparents. They homesteaded in Adelaida and had eight children.

Leslie and Mike’s great-great grandparents, Andrew and Sophia Lindquist Wickstrom came from Sweden to Nebraska, then to California. They had 10 children. The family moved to Templeton when son Edward was 10 years old. He started working at the Farmers Alliance Mill in San Miguel in 1904, learned the trade and became manager in 1913. Great-great grandparents Fred and Annie Kitchen Houghton had moved their family to San Miguel in 1873.

They ran the historic Park Hotel on Mission Street. Edward Wickstrom and Nell Houghton were married in 1908. Their daughter, Leatha (she preferred her nickname Babe) and Lloyd Van Horn were married in the 1940s and had two sons, Bill and Gary.

Lloyd got involved in the Mill, working with his father-in-law.

After World War II, they purchased the business from the Work family.

In 1952, Bill married Vivian Colburn. Bill and Vivian had three children, Mike, Leslie, and Peggy Rowlett. Their maternal grandparents are Ted and Marge Colburn.

When Lloyd died in 1976, Bill became the mill manager. As the manager, he made changes and upgrades in equipment to deal with a changing economic base. When

he passed in 1995, Leslie and Mike took over running the business with grateful thanks to Tom Jerman from the Templeton Mill for his expert help. The Van Horn family thrives, with an eighth-generation grandson delighting Leslie and Jeff.

Program seeks local entrepreneurs to drive innovation, create jobs, and boost North County’s economy

ATASCADERO — StoryLabs, an Atascadero-based co-working space and busi -

ness accelerator program, is calling on local business leaders to apply for its inaugural cohort program. With a goal to enhance local job creation and economic flourishing, the program is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and economic growth. The accelerator is accepting applications now through

Jan. 31, 2025. The business accelerator provides growth-oriented entrepreneurs and business leaders with the tools, mentorship, and resources needed to scale their ventures and drive sustainable economic impact in the SLO County region. Participants will gain access to industry experts, peer networks, and strategic support to navigate challenges and unlock growth opportunities.

Greg Squires, co-founder

of StoryLabs, emphasized the program’s commitment to strengthening the local economy: “Our mission is to create more jobs and enhance the vibrancy of North County’s business ecosystem. By empowering local business leaders with the right resources and community connections, we envision that over the next 10 years, StoryLabs will strengthen 100 local ventures and create 1,000 good-paying jobs, building a foundation for sustained

economic prosperity.”

StoryLabs invites business leaders to join its inaugural cohort from diverse industries who are committed to growing their operations and contributing to the economic health of the region. Applications are open to startups, established businesses, and social enterprises seeking to make a meaningful impact. Interested leaders are encouraged to submit their applications by the Jan. 31 deadline.

For more information

about the program and the application process, visit storylabs.work/businessaccelerator

About StoryLabs

StoryLabs is a North County-based community organization designed to foster entrepreneurial growth and economic development. Through mentorship, education, and community engagement, StoryLabs aims to empower businesses to achieve scalable success and make a lasting impact in the region.

Specs by Kyla has entered the lens-shaping game

Bill Van Horn took over as the San Miguel Flouring Mill manager in 1976, and upon his passing in 1995, his children Mike and Leslie (Parker) Van Horn. Contributed Photo

Kyla Skinner (right), owner/optician of Specs by Kyla, has expanded the role of her husband Jeff, who runs the new optical edger that will make it easier to fit the lenses inside customers’ frames. Contributed Photo

Good News • Real News • Your Hometown News

Special shout-out to College Corps Fellow, Katie NONPROFIT

Recognizing dedication, kindness, and community impact STAFF REPORT

NORTH COUNTY — The El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) is proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of Katie, one of the organization’s College Corps Fellows. Katie’s unwavering energy and kindness have made a significant impact on both ECHO campuses in Paso Robles and Atascadero, where she regularly leads engaging and creative activities for clients,

fostering an environment of growth, joy, and enrichment.

In addition to her leadership in activities, Katie consistently exceeds expectations by assisting with dinner registration, organizing vital donations, and warmly greeting every individual who enters ECHO’s doors. Her dedication and compassionate approach help build meaningful connections with residents, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and supported.

ECHO deeply appreciates its partnership

CONTACT INFO

P.O. Box 3120, Atascadero, CA 93423

(805)712-6356 atascaderogreyhound foundation.org

with College Corps, which integrates community service as an essential part of the college experience and career preparation. Fellows like Katie play a vital role in strengthening the community and contributing to a healthier, more supportive environment.

ECHO extends its gratitude to Katie for her commitment, empathy, and hard work. Her efforts have made a lasting difference, and the organization feels fortunate to have her as part of the ECHO family.

LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

Katie (right) leads engaging and creative activities for ECHO clients. Photo courtesy of ECHO

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

Donations: Our support comes from generous donors and sponsors. To make a difference, visit: lighthouseatascadero.org

ALF Food Pantry

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

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

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

United Way of San Luis Obispo County

EDUCATION. INCOME. COMMUNITY.

CONTACT INFO (805) 541-1234 unitedwayslo.org

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

CONTACT INFO

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

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

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

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

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

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

TREE OF LIFE Pregnancy Care Center

WOMEN. HEALTH. LIFE

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

Friends of the Paso Robles Library

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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

BOARD MEETINGS:

Call (805) 237-3870 for information

Operation Surf

MISSION

Our mission is to channel the healing powers of the ocean to restore hope, renew purpose, and revitalize community. Operation Surf’s curriculum-based programs aim to inspire injured military and veterans to seek wellness in all aspects of their lives while providing the necessary resources, tools, and peer-to-peer support to continue this mindset indefinitely. By staying true to our core values of care, inclusion, commitment, integrity, and communication, we change participants’ lives – one wave at a time. Local Veteran Opportunities: OS3- Three Month Surf Program Application is Open! Apply via the website www.operationsurf.org OS3 is a three-month, locally-focused program that provides veterans with an opportunity to bond through surfing, keep each other motivated, and move forward in life with a new perspective. Focused on four key pillars of mentorship, unity, family, and the peace of surfing, Operation Surf inspires to make lasting change in the lives of our community.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

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

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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

Atascadero Elks Lodge

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

ATASCADERO LODGE NO. 2733 Since 1987, the Atascadero Elks have contributed over $1,000,000 to local community-based programs, non-profits, youth groups, local sports teams, programs for handicapped and needy children, patriotic programs, veterans’ programs and many, many community activities. Our mission as Elks is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize our belief in God; to promote the welfare of our community; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and to

0000. Broker-principal DRE 01041073. No consumer loans. (Cal- SCAN)

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PUBLIC NOTICE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242396 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: SENSORIO, FIELD OF LIGHT, SENSORIO FIELD OF LIGHT, 4380 HIGHWAY 46 EAST, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY: ENTRADA DE PASO ROBLES, LLC, P.O. BOX 13248, BAKERSFIELD, CA 93389 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/ ENTRADA DE PASO ROBLES, LLC, CARY NIKKEL, CFO This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 11/20/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 04/10/2024 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 11/20/2029 PUB: 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024 LEGAL CM 632

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242398 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: REBELS FASTPITCH, 740 S BETHEL RD., TEMPLETON, CA 93465, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: NATASHA DALLAIRE, 740 S BETHEL RD, TEMPLETON, CA 93465 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/ NATASHA DALLAIRE This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 11/20/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: N/A 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 11/20/2029 PUB: 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024 LEGAL CM 633

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242408 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: CARING HANDS HOME CARE, 801 SAINT ANDREWS CIRCLE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: ARLENE RAMOS LOSBOG, 801 SAINT ANDREWS CIRCLE, 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/ ARLENE RAMOS LOSBOG

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 11/21/2024

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. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 11/21/2029 PUB: 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024 LEGAL CM 634

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242425 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: ESTEEM HEALTH PSC, 5750 TRAFFIC WAY, UNIT A, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION: CHRIS E. ESGUERRA, M.D., P.C., 5750 TRAFFIC WAY, UNIT A, ATASCADERO, CA 93422 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization  CALIFORNIA

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/ CHRIS E. ESGUERRA, M.D., P.C., AUSTIN MILLER, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 11/25/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 02/08/2022 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 MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 11/25/2029 PUB: 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024 LEGAL CM 635

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242442 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: PACIFIC PLUMBING, 376 PACIFIC AVE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A MARRIED COUPLE: DANIEL C HECK, 376 PACIFIC AVE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, JAYNEE LYNN ROSS-HECK, 376 PACIFIC AVE, 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/ DANIEL C HECK

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 12/02/2024

TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 07/14/2004

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 MKATZ, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 12/02/2029

PUB: 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024 LEGAL CM 638

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242469 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: ATTENTION TO DETAIL, 8556 EL CORTE RD, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION: DEEP STEAM, INC, 8556 EL CORTE RD, 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/ DEEP STEAM, INC, TIFFANY SNYDER, TREASURER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 12/05/2024

TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 12/05/2024 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 MKATZ, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 12/05/2029 PUB: 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024, 01/02/2025 LEGAL CM 640

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242461 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: SLO MELTDOWN, 5520 TRAFFIC WAY, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: JENNIFER REBECCA THOMPSON, 5520 TRAFFIC WAY, 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/ JENNIFER REBECCA THOMPSON This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 12/04/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 10/01/2024 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 12/04/2029 PUB: 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024, 01/02/2025 LEGAL CM 641

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242464 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: TAWNI’S, 930 LA COSTA CT, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A MARRIED COUPLE: JANETT GARCIA, 930 LA COSTA CT, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, EDWIN REBAZA, 930 LA COSTA CT, 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/ JANETT GARCIA This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 12/04/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 08/17/2024 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 MMALTBY, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name

Statement, Expires 12/04/2029

PUB: 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024, 01/02/2025

LEGAL CM 642

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242449 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: EMMANUELS PAINTING CO., P.O. BOX 1400, ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA 93423, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: RAUL RAMIREZ, P.O. BOX 1400, ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA 93423 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/ RAUL RAMIREZ This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 12/02/2024

TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 06/05/2004

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 MMALTBY, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 12/02/2029 PUB: 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024, 01/02/2025 LEGAL CM 643

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242446 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: GRUPO OAXACA S.A DE C.V, PRODUCTOS DE ROMERO, 5996 BUENA VISTA DR, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: HECTOR IVAN JIMENEZ, P.O BOX 518, 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/ HECTOR IVAN JIMENEZ This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 12/02/2024

TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 12/02/2024

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 12/02/2029 PUB: 12/12, 12/19, 12/26/2024, 01/02/2025 LEGAL CM 644

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/ GARY CONWAY, GP OF CHIMNEY ROCK VINEYARDS LP This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 12/05/2024 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. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MMALTBY, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 12/05/2029

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20242475 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: ART OF THE VINEYARD TASTING GALLERY, 840 13TH STREET, SUITE A, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP: GARY CONWAY, 78 NAVAJO AWENUE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, MARIAN MCKNIGHT CONWAY, 78 NAVAJO AVENUE,

12th

Changing Business

Best New Business Opened in 2024:

Best New Location or Relocation for Existing Business:

Best Community Involvement by Business Owner:

Best Social Media Presence by Local Business:

Best Beautification, Interior or Exterior Improvement:

Charitable Giving

Best Charity or Nonprofit:

Best Charity or Nonprofit Project Under Development: Is there a nonprofit in desperate need of attention and funding? Is it slow progress, or nearing completion? What projects need attention and will add great benefit to the community when completed?

Best Charity Event:

Best Youth Charity:

Best Local Charity or Nonprofit Project Completed in 2024:

Best Parade:

Coffee House:

Best Community Service Group:

Who is the best in the North SLO County?: Community activism is your game so this will bring out the best of the best — Rotary? Kiwanis? Elks? Moose? Masons? Any secret societies we missed? It’s your opportunity to shine a light on them now! Share this poll with your group!

Best Places to Eat & Drink

Best Overall Food & Beverage:

Best Coffeehouse:

Best Seafood Restaurant:

Best Mexican Restaurant:

Best Asian Cuisine:

Best Pizza:

Who’s got the PERFECT PIE?:

Best Pizza DELIVERY: (On Time Hot & Fresh; Great Delivery Team Accuracy)

Best Pizza DINE-IN: (Atmosphere, Service, Seating)

Best Pizza BUFFET:

Best SPECIALTY Pizza: MUST NOTE: Pizza by name and restaurant name

Best Burger Joint:

Best Steakhouse:

Best Sushi Restaurant:

Best BBQ Spot:

Best Pasta Restaurant:

Best Breakfast Place:

Best Brunch:

Best Lunch Spot:

Best Juice Bar:

Best Dessert, Bake or Cake Shop:

Best Vegetarian or Vegan:

Best Cheese Shop:

Best Family Restaurant:

Best Grocery Store:

Best Organic Farm-to-Table:

Best Local Beef:

Best Catering:

Best Outdoor Dining:

Individual Items

Best Tacos:

Best Steak:

Best Bacon & Eggs:

Best Appetizer (Which appetizer & restaurant):

Best Salad (What salad & restaurant):

Best French Fries:

Best Pastry:

Best French Toast:

Best Pancakes:

Best Waffles:

Best Mocktail:

Best Cup of Coffee:

Best Bag of Whole Bean or Ground Coffee:

Best Hot Tea:

Best Iced Tea:

Best Olive Oil:

Best Bread:

Best Cake:

Best Pie:

Best Gelato, Ice Cream, or Frozen Dessert:

Best Fruit:

Best Local Seasonings:

Shopping & Retail

Best Overall Shopping & Retail:

Best Women’s Clothing:

Best Men’s Clothing:

Best Board Shop:

Best Surf, Skate, or Streetwear:

Best Casual Attire:

Best Dinner or Dress Attire:

Best Kid’s Clothing:

Best Fashion:

Best Eyewear:

Best Consignment Store:

Best Antiques:

Best Thrift Store:

Best Flowers & Florist:

Best Bookstore:

Best Health Food & Supplements:

Health, Wellness, And Beauty

Best Urgent Care or Clinic:

Best Pediatrician:

Best Dentist:

Best Orthodontist:

Best Optometry and Glasses:

Best Chiropractor:

Best Holistic Healthcare:

Best Day Spa:

Best Nail Salon:

Best Hair Salon:

Best Gym:

Best Weight Loss or Personal Trainer(s):

Travel, Entertainment, Leisure and Events

Best Hotel:

Best Outdoor Event Venue:

Best Indoor Event Venue:

Best Art Gallery:

Best Photographer:

Best Event Photo Booth Service:

Best Place for a Girl’s Night Out:

Best Place for a Guy’s Night Out:

Best Place for a Family Outing:

Best Amusement or Games:

Best Bounce House or Party Supply:

Best Golf Course:

Best Park Playground:

Pets & Animals:

Best Pet Supply Store:

Best Feed Store:

Home Improvement

Best Paving, Concrete, and Driveways:

Best Backyard Design and Build:

Best Construction & Building Materials:

Best Flooring:

Best Plumbing:

Best Roofing:

Best Solar:

Best Electrician:

Best Rain Gutters:

Best Landscaping, Lawn, and Garden:

Best Propane Supplier:

Best Furniture:

Best Pest and Rodent Control:

Best Commercial or Residential Cleaning Service:

Best Moving Company:

Best Storage Company:

Financial, Real Estate, or Legal Services

Best Bank or Credit Union:

Best Real Estate Agent:

Best Real Estate Group:

Best Mortgage or Home Loans:

Best Insurance Agent:

Best Tax Prep or CPA:

Best Bookkeeping Service:

Auto Care

Best Overall Auto Care:

Best American Auto Repair & Maintenance:

Best German Auto Repair & Maintenance:

Best Car Wash and Auto Detail:

Best Body Shop:

Best Tire Sales and Service:

Best Auto Sales & Service:

Best RV Sales and Service:

Best Gas and Diesel Station:

Best Auto Parts Store:

Wine & Vineyards

Best Downtown Tasting Room:

Best Vineyard Tasting Room:

Best Vineyard Experience:

Best Winery Experience:

Best Winery Event Venue:

Best Red Wine (name and winery):

Best White Wine (name and winery):

Best Sparkling Wine (name and winery):

Breweries, Distilleries, and Tap Houses

Best Bar, Tavern, Pub, or Tap House: Best Local Spirit (name and maker): Whiskey, vodka, or other distilled spirit made locally:

Best Beer (beer name and brewer):

Best Cocktail (cocktail name and location served):

Did we miss any great categories?

New Category Suggestion(s):

Thank you for taking part in our 12th Annual Reader’s Poll! Email the above survey to office@13stars.media, or Mail to: P.O. Box 6068, Atascadero, CA 93423 or Drop it off: 5850 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422

Call us at 805.466.2585 for assistance. Go online to complete the full survey at bestofnorthslocounty.com

PERSPECTIVE

Good News • Real News • Your Hometown News

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL

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

Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living

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

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

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

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 YouTube @Hope Lutheran Church Atascadero. Sunday School for all ages follows worship. Learn more at ourhopelutheran.net. 8005 San Gabriel Rd. Atascadero. 805-461-0430. office@ourhopelutheran.net. Pastor Aaron Smith.

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.

TEMPLETON HILLS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

God is love. We exist to know and share that love in practical ways. Join us for worship Saturdays at 11am. 930 Templeton Hills Rd, Templeton. For more info: https://templetonhills.adventistfaith.org/

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

ATASCADERO FOURSQUARE CHURCH–FATHER’S HOUSE

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

ABIDE CALVARY ATASCADERO

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

THE REVIVAL CENTER

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

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

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

SANTA MARGARITA DE CORTONA CATHOLIC CHURCH

22515 “H” St, Santa Margarita (805)438-5383 Parish Office

hours:Wed-Thur 9am-12pm Mass Times: Saturday Vigil Mass:5pm Sunday:10am Wed-Fri 10am Adoration Wed following Mass Confessions: Saturday 4pm and Sunday 9am

RESURRECTION ECUMENICAL MINISTRY

offers an interdenominational communion service each Wednesday evening at 7:00, beginning January 22. Please join us at 9005 Santa Lucia in Atascadero. For more information call or text Rev. Dr. Cynthia Gaw at (828) 406-7253 .

CONGREGATION OHR TZAFON"THE NORTHERN LIGHT"

Located at 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA 93422. Friday Night Service 6:30 pm 805-466-0329 congregationohrtzafon.org

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

To those of us who collect cookbooks, like other people who collect vintage toys or baseball cards, cookbooks are our treasures. And we haunt the shelves of used book bookstores, and thrift stores looking for those special old issues. I have found vintage cookbooks with snippets of paper tucked between pages, seemingly marking the owner’s favorite recipes. Many of my finds have personal notes and greetings inside the cover, marking a birthday, graduation, marriage, or just to say that someone is special!

I read cookbooks like others read novels, and I get excited when I find a new-to-me book like the one titled “Classic Christmas Recipes,” published in 2001 by Publications International, Ltd., Louis Weber, CEO. The chapter titles keep with

I’d like you to settle an argument for me concerning a question that’s been nagging me for quite some time. It is a deep philosophical question that has been debated back and forth for centuries, ever since Socrates and Plato were running cows over in Greece. Here’s the question: Do cows know it’s Christmas?

The reason I ask is because I was down at the farm supply store last week and the place was buzzing with crazy people buying Christmas presents for their pets. (I was lucky to get the last decent dog vest with matching jacket.) Now you might call me a Scrooge but I think that when there’s such a thing as a toy

In this season where we take time to acknowledge God becoming man as Jesus, our Emmanuel (God With Us), I would love to show you how human and relatable our Lord is. Everything I state is facts found in scripture; it is not just tradition, legend, myth, or hearsay.

I assume most of you are super familiar with the Christmas story. It is common knowledge that Mary was only betrothed to Joseph when the Holy Spirit overshadowed her, and she became the expectant mother of Jesus. They had not consummated their marriage yet. Jesus was illegitimate.

Speaking of Joseph — he was the chosen man to be Jesus’ stepfather. In Matthew 1 when it speaks of Jesus’ genealogy it gives

Holiday recipes and nostalgia

the theme of Christmas, such as Merry Main Dishes, Yuletide Soups and Salads, Santa’s Favorite Sides, and Sleighful of Cookies and Candies. The photographs are so realistic that you can almost smell and taste the foods displayed.

The recipes this month are from that little Christmas cookbook. Hope you will enjoy using them during the holidays. This first one is for fruit cake, but don’t shudder until you read it. If there are some candied fruits that you are not fond of, just replace them with those you do like to make the 1 1/2 cups.

Holiday Fruit Cake

Ingredients:

1 (16 ounces) package (good) graham crackers, finely rolled (about 5 cups crumbs)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 3/4 cup seedless raisins

• 1 cup pitted dates, snipped

• 12 ounces (about 1 1/2 cups) mixed candied fruit

• 1 cup walnut pieces, chopped

1/2 cup orange juice

1/3 cup light corn syrup

Directions:

Mix crumbs, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, raisins, dates, candied fruit and walnuts in large bowl. Blend orange juice and corn syrup in small bowl; add to crumb mixture, blending until moistened. Press firmly into foil-lined 8 1/2x4 1/2x2 1/2-inch loaf pan; cover tightly. Store at least 2 days in the refrigerator before serving; Cake will keep several weeks in the refrigerator. Makes 1 (8-inch) loaf.

Raspberry Almond Sandwich Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 package (good) sugar cookie mix (such as DUNCAN HINES Golden Sugar Cookie Mix)

1 egg 1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 tablespoon water

• 3/4 teaspoon almond extract

• 1 1/3 cups sliced natural almonds, broken Seedless red raspberry jam

Do cows know it’s Christmas

Cat-alog for cats that Christmas is getting far too commercialized.

I hate to admit that I have a friend who hangs a stocking up every year for his parakeet and last year he bought it a beak sharpener and a CD of Christmas songs performed by a variety of birds. I must admit that I once bought a bone for my dog for Christmas but I have never bought red and white block salt for my cows for Christmas like a rancher friend of mine did. And these auction markets closing up for Christmas day just to give the cows a day off is ridiculous. I contend that cows do not know one day from another.

To prove my point I quizzed a cowboy friend of mine. Jeep had never had a philosophical discussion before but he did know a lot about cows.

“Jeep, do cows know it’s Christmas?”

“Well, they were there when it all started weren’t they?”

“Yes, now that I think of it I’ve

never seen a nativity scene that didn’t include at least one cow.

But how would cows nowadays know about Santa Claus and all that holiday stuff?”

“Maybe the reindeer have been talking,” replied Jeep. “Cows celebrate lots of holidays but they do it on different days than us. They celebrate Labor Day when they calve and Independence Day is when they wean their calves. They celebrate Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and even the president’s birthdays.”

“Bah humbug,” I said. I simply could not believe that Jimmy Carter had been their president too. Animals are smarter than that.

I still could not believe it. I called the university to find out if there had ever been any research done on the subject. They said that their research department would need at least a $100,000 grant to do the proper research.

Next I called the Farm Advisor.

She said the GAO had already

relatable savior

the list from Abraham to Joseph. Essentially, Jesus was adopted by Joseph since that is the historical genealogy recorded. And by the way, if you think your family tree is messed up, Jesus understands. His family had some shady characters with checkered pasts; just to name a few: Abraham, Jacob, David, Bathsheba, and Rahab. It is also common knowledge that Jesus was from Israel, so obviously we know He was Jewish. Do you realize that also makes Him Asian? Odd to think about but Israel is on the continent of Asia.

Joseph, Mary, and their newborn sons were immigrants, no longer near their home. Let me clear something up right now: I have heard a lot of people in defense of their political argument say that Jesus was an undocumented immigrant. A simple reading of the famous Christmas Story in Luke 2 will tell you very much the opposite. His parents took that insane 90-mile trek on foot from Nazareth to Bethlehem for a census, for crying out loud!

Directions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine cookie mix, egg, oil, water and almond extract in large bowl. Stir until thoroughly blended. Drop half of dough by level teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. (Dough will spread during baking to 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 inches.) Place broken almonds on waxed paper. Drop remaining half of dough by level teaspoonfuls onto nuts. Place almond side up 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake both plain and almond cookies 6 minutes or until set but not browned. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets. Remove to cooling racks. Cool completely. Spread bottoms of plain cookies with jam; top with almond cookies. Press together to make sandwiches. Store in airtight container. Makes 6 dozen sandwich cookies

Note: Other seedless jams can be used, but red raspberry is perfect for the holidays. Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com

done such a study and the GAO found there to be no evidence of such a thing as Christmas. I was so conflicted I decided to play it safe but I waited until the last minute to buy my cows a Christmas gift and I bought them a dewormer but that hardly seems like a nice Christmas gift. Finally, I made the mistake of asking my wife if animals celebrated Christmas. My wife insists that all animals know when it is Christmas and she’s hardly ever wrong. But keep in mind this is the same lady who raised a turkey to have for Christmas dinner. She took Tom for walks, played Frisbee with him and he became just like one of the family. When it came time, sure enough we had him for Christmas dinner. He sat at the table right next to the dog. Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@ leepittsbooks.com.

After Jesus was born, and after a visit from the Magi, Joseph was warned by an angel in a dream to flee to Egypt because King Herod was seeking the baby Messiah King to destroy Him.

So, Jesus was raised in Africa while He was young for a couple of years. That made Him a refugee. Have you ever had your life literally threatened? Jesus has — more than once! The first time was before He was even born!

Like I said, Herod was out to kill Him. Jesus was a mark.

Jesus was the first-born child to Mary and Joseph. You do realize they had more children. We don’t know how many, but we know of at least four brothers mentioned in the gospels; their names were James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. I have no doubt He was the best big brother. He became a laborer where He worked with His hands. Joseph was a carpenter. Fathers passed their trade to their sons. There is a stable argument that since the area Jesus grew up wasn’t known for their deep forests, but stone, Jesus may have been more of a

type of mason, and there wasn’t a suitable translation, but “carpenter” was the closest in English. Either way, I’m sure Jesus was yoked doing physical labor daily. Jesus … Illegitimate … Stepchild … Adopted … colored family history … Jewish … Asian … Documented Immigrant … Refugee … a mark … First-Born … Big Brother … Laborer … Human. I am certain there is something on this list with which you can identify. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Heb. 4:14-16

Sarah-Kate Duran is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at alphabeth@tcsn.net

ATASCADERO WRESTLING