Paso Robles Press • February 16, 2023

Community Members Honored at Annual Chamber Gala

2023 Board of Directors was welcomed and goodbyes were said to the 2022 outgoing board members

By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com

PASO ROBLES — On

Saturday, Feb. 11, the Paso Robles and Templeton Chamber of Commerce held the Annual Gala and Awards

Ceremony at Rava Wines.

At the gala, the 2023 Board of Directors was welcomed and goodbyes and thank yous were said to the 2022 outgoing board members.

Brett Butterfield was honored Saturday night as the

2022 Roblan of the Year, and A-1 Glass was honored with the 2022 Beautification of the Year. The Chamber’s merge with Templeton has brought in some new traditions — Courtney Morrow was honored with the 2022 Citizen of the Year

Kristin Smart Case Lead

Detective Announces Retirement

By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Paul Flores had been charged with the 1996 murder and disappearance of 19-yearold Cal Poly student Kristin Smart. His father Ruben Flores was found not guilty — by a seperate jury — of accessory after the fact. Ruben was accused of helping his son hide Kristin’s remains.

and the North County Restaurant Group (NCRG) was given the 2022 Business of the Year award.

“Paint the Night” was the theme of this year’s gala.

This year is the second gala with the Paso Robles and

Templeton chambers as one.

The two chambers announced their merger on New Year’s Day in 2022, uniting more than 1,000 businesses.

Chambers President and CEO Gina Fitzpatrick welcomed guests to the gala and

was followed by Paso Robles Jointed Unified School District Trustee and Executive Director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance Joel Peterson, who acted as the master of ceremonies for the night.

CONTINUED ON PAGE A15

no resolution in talks regarding the amount of pay per game for the upcoming 2023 season. The two organizations began their disagreement when entering talks for a new contract in the fall of 2022.

CENTRAL COAST

COUNTY

— After a 32-year career with the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, Detective Clint Cole has announced his retirement. The Sheriff’s Office announced on Tuesday, Feb. 7, that Cole’s last day with the department will be March 10 — the same day Paul Flores is scheduled to be sentenced for the murder of Kristin Smart. Cole became the lead investigator in the Smart case in 2019 and is credited with leading that investigation to a successful conclusion with the arrest of Flores on April 13, 2021, and his conviction on Oct. 18, 2022.

Smart was a Cal Poly freshman when she was reported missing in May 1996. A 25-year investigation ensued, resulting in the 2021 arrest and prosecution of Paul and Ruben. At trial the jury heard testimony that Kristin was last seen walking towards her dormitory with Paul after leaving an off-campus party.

“I am extremely proud of the work Clint has done for this agency, especially with regard to the Kristin Smart investigation,” said SLO County Sheriff Ian Parkinson.

“He has accomplished much in his 32-year career, and his retirement is well-deserved.”

CLINT COLE

Cole was hired at the Sheriff’s Office as a correctional officer in 1990. He started as a patrol deputy in 1996. From 2002 to 2014, Cole worked in the Sheriff’s Special Operations Unit, as a school resource deputy and as a sexual assault investigator. In 2014, he was promoted to senior deputy. In 2017, he was selected to be the first investigator assigned to the newly created position of cold case/unsolved homicide

— The Central Coast Athletics Association and the Los Padres Baseball Umpire Associate have cut communication with each other after finding

When the CCAA schools agreed to move to the Central Section in 2017, departing the Southern Section, many things changed, like who teams play in the postseason, but also includ-

ing the rates paid per game to officials. Each section within the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) sets its own rates for each of the units, or sports, offered in a given sporting year. Every few years, each CIF section gets together and sets new rates and adopts new rules that the schools, in turn, follow and offer to their local officiating organizations. 2023

PASO ROBLES — An update on the Aquatic Center

was presented at the Tuesday, Feb. 14, Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJUSD) board meeting.

Construction of the longawaited Aquatic Center is now expected to begin this fall. Blueprint plans show the center will have a bathhouse/

locker room, outdoor concrete deck, and 12-lane pool that will accommodate water polo with diving boards and spectator seating.

The next step in moving forward with the center is registering the project with

Bryan Carroll and his wife, Sophia Stephens, owners of A-1 Glass, accept the award for 2022 Beautification of the Year.

Photos by Heather Swanson

2022 Roblan of the Year Brett Butterfield (center) is joined on stage by friend Mark Perry and Paso Robles and Templeton Chambers President/CEO Gina Fitzpatrick at the Chambers Annual Gala and Awards

Paso Robles

Wine Country 2023 Events Calendar Announced

Tickets for signature events now on sale, early bird tickets end soon

PASO ROBLES — Tickets are now on sale for the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance consumer events in 2023. Tickets for two marquee grand tastings, as well as special winemaker dinners and collaborative excursions into wine country, are on sale at pasowine.com.

Events include BlendFest on the Coast (Feb. 23-26), the Paso Robles Wine Country Virtual Auction (March 13-18), and Paso Wine Fest (May 18-21). Also announced are the new theme months, Spring Release Month (the entire month of March) and Harvest Wine Month (the entire month of October). Themed months feature smaller, more intimate events throughout the month.

FEBRUARY

BLENDFEST ON THE COAST, FEB. 23-26

BlendFest on the Coast takes place in Cambria and San Simeon, only a 40-minute drive away from Paso Robles, alongside the Pacific Ocean. This event is the only Paso Wine event dedicated to blends and celebrates wines of nuance and character derived from the sum of their parts. BlendFest includes a series of events in San Simeon and Cambria featuring various excursions that pair wineries with coastal experiences, a blending seminar, as well as winemaker dinners.

The marquee event takes place on the Sundance Lawn at the Oceanpoint Ranch in Cambria with more than 40 wineries pouring on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 2 to 5 p.m. Partners include Highway 1 Road Trip, Visit Cambria, and Visit San Simeon.

MARCH

SPRING RELEASE MONTH, MARCH

All through the month of March, Paso Wine Country will celebrate the beginning of the new vintage as vines awaken from their winter slumber. Five wine-

maker dinners at Les Petites Canailles, in bloom, Thomas Hill Organics, Della’s, and Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ will showcase up to six wineries at each meal. Some paired, some as a bottle share, these dinners will highlight the diversity of wines and passion that our winemakers have in creating the best wines to be shared at the dinner table. Also available are two vineyard excursions that bring winemakers together for a common theme and get visitors out into the vineyard for a whole new perspective. Up to 100 wineries will also feature their own independent events.

PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY VIRTUAL AUCTION, MARCH 13-18

This virtual auction brings specially curated, one-of-a-kind packages that are all about experiencing Paso Robles Wine Country, available to the highest bidders. These auction lots include special verticals from winery libraries, dinners with multiple brands, overnight stays in exclusive accommodations, and exceptional tours created just for this auction. Visit pasowine.com by March 1 to view the lots as they become listed and to register to bid.

MAY

PASO WINE FEST, MAY 18-21

In 2022, Paso Wine Fest evolved into the most sought-after wine event in Paso Robles Wine Country. In 2023, it will be even better. Multiple ticketed events throughout the four days are available, beginning on Thursday, May 18, and Friday, May 19, with winemaker dinners at popular Paso Robles restaurants, The Hatch and Thomas Hill Organics. Sparkling Paso brings together winemakers sharing their tantalizing sparkling wines perfectly paired with gourmet offerings by Executive Chef Joe White of Paris Valley Road Estate Winery.

On Saturday, May 20, Paso Wine Fest celebrates its 40th anniversary. On hand will be over 100 Paso Robles wineries sampling their wines and sharing the Paso vibe at this marquee event. Wineries range

What is Happening with Paso Downtown Parking?

from the smallest of producers to crowd favorites, with many ways to experience their wines. New in 2023, spirits made from winegrapes will be sampled, bringing attention to another craft borne from Paso Robles. Food trucks from around the region will serve up festival-friendly fare and a makers market presents cool and unique wine-themed wares.

Tickets are now on sale at pasowine. com with early bird discounts set to expire by Tuesday, Feb. 14.

OCTOBER

HARVEST WINE MONTH, OCTOBER

Harvest doesn’t take place over one weekend, so why should a celebration of harvest? The entire month of October is Harvest Wine Month. Individual events at the region’s wineries happen throughout October.

Pasowine.com will have every event listed and be on the lookout for specialty tours, winemaker dinners, grape stomps, music events, and more. The themed month gives wineries the flexibility to host events when its easiest on them during a time when production is at its height. It also takes advantage of October’s exceptional weather when days are warm and nights are cool, a staple for Paso Robles Wine Country.

For all ticket information, please visit pasowine.com.

About Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance

The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance is the official trade and marketing organization that represents wineries, growers, and businesses in the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country encompasses more than 40,000 vineyard acres and 250 wineries. For more information, visit pasowine.com. Facebook @PasoRoblesWine, Instagram and Twitter @ PasoWine, #pasowine.

By CAMILLE DEVAUL

PASO ROBLES — Down-

town Paso Robles business owners and residents are voicing their concerns over what is to happen next with the Downtown Parking Program.

After a lengthy discussion at the Tuesday, Jan. 31, City Council meeting, the City of Paso Robles paid parking program is currently on hold. Below is the current status of the Downtown Parking Program:

• The WayToPark app has been discontinued effective Friday, Feb. 10. All parking sessions must be started using the parking pay stations.

• All Downtown parking signs have been updated to direct visitors to pay at the pay stations. The parking rate remains unchanged at two hours free followed by $1 per hour.

Upcoming Changes

• City Council will be discussing the downtown parking program at their next meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 21.

• Based on the Dec. 20, 2022, City Council meeting the following implementations will be made on March 1 (Pending the Feb. 21 City Council meeting).

• The two hours free will be eliminated.

• The hourly rate will be increased to $2 per hour. All payments must be made using the parking pay stations. Owners of the General Store have sent a letter to City Council opposing the proposed changes: "We wanted to share our strong opposition to the updated parking changes that we've been notified of, specifically the lack of an app for payment of parking

fees, and the charging of fees for the first two hours."

The General Store, which will have been operating downtown for 10 years this May, is hoping the city can find a solution that will appease everyone and support local shoppers.

"Making locals park, walk to a kiosk, enter their license plate info every time, insert their credit card, and then be charged, will absolutely deter business, zero doubt about it," said the team at General Store. "It will dissuade people from popping into our stores as a part of their daily business, and we fear it will dramatically alter our relationship with our local customers."

Paso Robles Press spoke with the owners at the General Store, who told us they are happy to have made it through the tough times during the COVID pandemic and struggling economy.

Finally, the owners added, "The goal of the parking program is to support businesses downtown. This will do the opposite, and we strongly disagree with the decision. We would ask that the City Council reconsider."

The entire community will be able to voice its concerns and opinions on the parking program at the next City Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 21.

To participate remotely, residents can listen to the meeting live on the radio at AM1230 or livestream the meeting at prcity. com/youtube and call (805) 865-7276 to provide public comment via phone. The phone line will open just prior to the start of the meeting and remain open throughout the meeting to ensure the opportunity to comment on each item heard by the council.

Written public comments can be submitted by email to cityclerk@prcity.com after the agenda posts and prior to 12 p.m. on the day of the City Council meeting. Emailed comments will be posted as an addendum to the agenda. If submitting written comments in advance of the meeting, please note the agenda item by number or name.

City Council meetings will be livestreamed during the meeting and also available to play later on YouTube by accessing the following link prcity.com/ youtube.

LOCAL NEWS

ONX Wines and BarrelHouse Brewing

Present the Zin City Social

Paso Robles Winery and Brewery unite for a night of wine and beer pairings

PASO ROBLES — Beer and wine lovers should take note of a new collaboration from the Central Coast. ONX Wines and BarrelHouse Brewing out of Tin City, Paso Robles, are teaming up to host a wine and beer pairing dinner in the heart of ONX’s winemaking facility — Zin City

Social on Saturday, March 11.

ONX Wines has long been known for unique blends and inspired experiences that push the boundaries of its 19-varietal vineyard estate. Continuing in its creative style, ONX has teamed up with fami -

ly-owned Barrelhouse Brewing on a multiple-course dining adventure at the Tin City winery. Chef Rachel Ponce, a local culinary pairing expert, will be coupling each course with a wine and a beer. ONX Winemaker Drew Nenow and BarrelHouse Brewer Patrick Wilson will walk guests through each wine and beer as the courses progress. The evening will also highlight the breweries’ Zin City, a BHBC beer made with Zinfandel grapes off the ONX Estate.

“When I am creating my pairings, I start from whatever is in the glass and then develop the dish around that and what happens as it completes the dish,” Ponce said. “Adding another element into this, I want to find wine and beers with similarity, then create the

dish around every flavor that the wine and beer are coming from. It is important that the guest go from tasting the wine to the food and then tasting the beer to the food. If you taste the wine and beer side by side, what is happening on your palate will not work until you indulge into the dish. Sounds crazy and fun; make sure you experience this dinner.”

To view the evening’s menu and purchase a ticket for this much-anticipated dinner you can visit ONX Wines. The reception and entry pour will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the three-course paired dinner.

ONX Wines is a Paso Robles winery and farmstead with a 130-acre vineyard located in the dynamic Templeton Gap AVA. It is planted with 19 distinct varieties & numerous clones. Their wines are expressive yet balanced blends that reflect the vineyard estate and its complex alluvium soils.

For more information, visit onxwine.com/ events/2023/3/11/zin-citysocial

Templeton Fire Stairclimb Team

Raising Funds for Leukemia and Lymphoma on Seattle Trip

Members are climbing in honor of 7-year-old Mason Watson of Templeton, who is currently battling leukemia

TEMPLETON — On March 12, the Templeton Fire Stairclimb Team will be traveling up to Seattle to participate in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Firefighter Stairclimb.

The LLS Firefighter Stairclimb is the world’s largest “on air” Stairclimb which consists of climbing 69 floors in full structural firefighting gear. The LLS Firefighter Stairclimb will take place at the Columbia Center in downtown Seattle. This year the Templeton Stairclimb Team is climbing in honor of 7-year-old Mason Watson of

Templeton, who is currently battling leukemia, and all others throughout our community battling cancer.

The Templeton Fire Stairclimb Team held its seventh annual Firefighters and Flowers for a Cure fundraiser this year. Templeton’s finest sold flowers for Valentine’s Day at three locations throughout Templeton. One hundred percent of the profits will go directly to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

During these times, Templeton Fire would like to remind the public that there is still no cure for cancer and the Templeton Fire Stairclimb Team is dedicated to raising money to battle this horrible disease.

For more information, visit Firefighter’s & Flowers for a Cure page firefighterswflowe. wixsite.com/preorder or the Team Page at llswa.org/site/TR/LLSWA/llswaFF?team_ id=73411&pg=team&fr _id=1730.

Atascadero Elks Lodge to Host St. Patrick’s Day Event

Tickets are on sale now for the Thursday, March 16, event

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Elks Lodge #2733 will be having a St. Patrick’s Day event on Thursday, March 16. The event will be open to

the public, with doors opening at 5 p.m.

There will be a $10 cover charge per person with Irish music by the Kellytown Band

playing from 6 to 9 p.m. Pub food will be available between 5 to 9 p.m., with the lodge serving corned beef sandwiches, homemade potato chips and

Calendar of Events

sun feb 19

VALENTINE MOVIE NIGHT

Park Cinemas Movie Theater, Paso

Robles

7-9 PM

Enjoy a classic movie on the big screen in Downtown Paso Robles. Movie to be announced soon. Tickets are only $12 and include popcorn and a soda. For more information, call the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street office at (805) 238-4103.

thu feb 23-26

SLO CAL OPEN

Morro Rock, Morro Bay

ALL DAY

Join us February 23 - 26th, 2023 for the World Surf League Men’s and Women’s event at The Rock in Morro Bay. For more info or to sign up worldsurfleague.com.

thu feb 23-26

BLENDFEST ON THE COAST

Various Locations

SEE SCHEDULE

Experience a taste of Paso Robles Wine Country on the beautiful California coast. Paso Robles BlendFest on the Coast will take place February 23 – 26 in San Simeon and Cambria with a selection

of exciting events. Paso Robles’ winemakers love to blend wine, mixing varieties to craft something unique and delicious. BlendFest celebrates rulebreaking, traditional, and unconventional wine blends throughout the weekend. Visit pasowine.com for more information.

wed mar 1

SPRING RELEASE

Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance

ALL DAY

The entire month of March is Spring Release. Wineries host individual events throughout the month. Look for more than 100 specialty tours, winemaker dinners, seminars, music events, and more. Spring Release is a themed month that does not feature a single marquee event, but rather individual experiences at the area wineries.

fri mar 3

FIRST FRIDAY Downtown Atascadero 5:30-7:30PM

Lu Lu and The Cowtippers at City Hall plus enjoy the Vintage & Artisan Street Fair. First Friday Concerts are complimentary and most of the First Fridays will kick off between 5:30 and 6 pm.

When there is a concert, the public is encouraged to bring a low-back chair. Make a night of it as a date night or with the family to enjoy the variety of eating establishments, shops, and entertainment Downtown.

sun mar 5

THE GREAT OUTDOORS CONCERT

Atascadero Bible Church

3 TO 5PM

The ACB will express the beauty and grandeur of the outdoors through an array of beautiful music depicting the spirit of the countryside and even places you may never have visited. As with nature, the program for this concert spans a wide variety of music from majestic classics, featuring composers such as Copland and Mendelssohn, to the quaint, with tunes from favorite TV shows and a campfire favorite. Get ready to travel with us as we Forge the New Frontier, visit the Halls of the Mountain King, explore Sedona, travel Under the Sea, and much more.

fri mar 10-11

40TH ANNUAL LADIES’ CONFERENCE Atascadero Colony Park Community Center 6:30-9:30PM, 9AM-3PM

Speaker Kim Meeder, Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch, is a best selling author whose humanitarian work has garnered national acclaim. She enjoys wilderness adventuring and lives near Bend, Oregon. Musicians with the Lisa Reiff band will provide the music, featuring keyboard, guitar and vocals. Check out the web page at ladiesconference.com for details.

coleslaw for $15 per person. No outside alcohol is allowed at this event.

Tickets are available at the lodge Monday through Thurs-

day, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The lodge is closed on Fridays. For more information, call the Elks Lodge office at (805) 466-3557.

A Concert of Traditional and Contemporary Chamber Music

Enjoy the sound of music and join us in listening to the blended and unque enchantment of a doubl woodwind quintet, clarinet choir, brass quartet and more with music from artists such as Mozart, Beethoven and Vaughan-Williams

Sunday, February 26th, 2023 at 3pm Atascadero United Methodist Church

Volunteers Help Remove 200 Tons of Dirt, Flood Debris from Oceano Ranch

Excess dirt will be reused by the Santa Lucia Sportsmen’s Association on its range in Atascadero

CENTRAL COAST — Volunteers from The Holloway Group and Team Rubicon spent much of Saturday helping remove more than 200 tons of debris and dirt from the flood-plagued Cardoza Ranch in Oceano.

All 12 acres of Pat and Vickie Cardoza’s ranch was flooded — by as much as 10-15 feet of water in some areas — in mid-January when storm runoff in Arroyo Grande Creek ran over a failing levee and flooded their home and farmland south of Oceano.

Because the Cardozas were located downstream near where the creek meets the dunes and ocean, their ranch saw a brunt of the damage, with mud, wood, trash and debris washing onto their ranch from miles upstream.

Volunteering its hauling services and workers in the cleanup effort, Hollo-

way brought in four semis that hauled away about 200 tons of dirt, which will be re-used by the Santa Lucia Sportsmen’s Association on its range in Atascadero, as well as for flood control and erosion repairs at vineyards in the North County.

“Ninety-nine percent of this material came from somewhere else. It didn’t come from their farm, but it all came to their farm, flooded in here, and now

EDUCATION

they’re having to deal with it,” said Brian Maxted, CEO of Holloway, an agriculture and environmental services company with offices in Paso Robles and Bakersfield.

“We’re happy to do our part,” he added. “I know there’s a lot of people in the county and in California, when the rains hit, that had flooding issues and we heard about this so we jumped on it.”

Last Call for Junior CEO Virtual Youth Education Program

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce is launching the Jr. CEO, a program providing elementary and junior high students with five virtual workshops focused on entrepreneurial skills. Sessions will include business fundamentals, cost models, safety/food preparation, marketing, customer service, and money management. Tuition is $25 per student and registration closes on Feb. 21. The first course begins on Feb. 22.

Each workshop will be led by Chamber staff and an area business leader. Along with a virtual presentation, participants will receive an interactive workbook for each session.

Chamber President/CEO Josh Cross is eager to bring this opportunity to Atascadero youth. “We’re excited to invest in tomorrow’s leaders today by offering relevant and real-world knowledge from area business leaders. Skills learned through this program will support a child’s future professional and personal success.” While most students will use the virtual work-

shops to help launch hot chocolate or lemonade stands at the end of the five sessions, some may choose to apply these lessons to other business concepts such as jewelry, bookmarks, or pet food. Skills learned in this program will provide basic business education that families can utilize to augment other learning opportunities.

Cross said that Jr. CEOs can utilize this coursework to start whichever business works for them.

“I can’t wait to see how these young entrepreneurs contribute their talents to our community,” he said.

Register online at atascaderochamber.org/jr-ceo Individuals and organizations interested in sponsoring the Jr. CEO program can contact Cross at (805) 466-2044 or josh@atascaderochamber.org.

Team Rubicon, a nonprofit made up of veterans that provide disaster relief to communities, also brought in a dozen local volunteers to help clean up debris, trash, and scoop out mud from their stables and other areas of the ranch.

“We’re just trying to provide some help for Pat and his family here, because they took a big hit,” said Denny Johnson of Team Rubicon. “We’re not self-serving at all. We feel good when

we’re able to help someone else, and that’s always a good feeling. At the end of the day, we got something done for those people, and that’s what’s really going to matter.”

Organizers said cleanup on the property will continue over the weekend. But there is a long way to go before the ranch is back in working order, Pat Cardoza said from his tractor, between moving loads of mud from the stables. Cardoza and his son-in-law Jeff Ward ran the tractors that loaded mud and debris all day, and thanked the volunteers for coming out to help with the cleanup.

“It hits me right here,” Ward said, patting his chest while talking to volunteers. “I know what it takes and costs to bring in trucks nowadays, and it’s not easy getting in here, so we really appreciate the help we’ve been getting.”

The Cardozas said more than 50 livestock animals from the ranch were displaced by the flooding, although they are slowly making it back to the ranch as things dry out and debris is moved, making the roads to the various areas of the ranch passable by trailer for the first time since mid-January.

Bill Introduced to End Civil Statute of Limitations for Child Sexual Abuse

Assemblymember Dawn Addis also introduces Biliteracy Advancement Act

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember

Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) and Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), the chair of the Legislative Women’s Caucus, on Monday, Feb. 6, introduced AB 452, the Justice for Survivors Act.

The legislation ends California’s arbitrary civil statute of limitations for minors who have experienced sexual abuse and removes barriers that prevent survivors from seeking justice against their abusers and the institutions that concealed or ignored their claims.

“I am immensely proud to author the Justice for Survivors Act with my colleague, Senator Skinner,” Addis said. “By eliminating the civil statute of limitations for child sexual abuse, we are helping survivors come forward to seek the critical closure they need. It’s time to end this arbitrary and cruel time limit on justice.”

Under current law, survivors who experience sexual assault as minors only have until their 40th birthday to seek justice in civil court.

Last year, President Joe Biden signed the

Eliminating Limits to Justice for Child Sex Abuse Victims Act, which removed statute of limitations for people who were sexually abused as minors to file civil claims in federal courts. Subsequently, numerous states have eliminated the statutes at the state level.

AB 452 now awaits referral to its first policy committee.

On Friday, Feb. 3, Addis introduced Assembly Bill 370 known as the Biliteracy Advancement Act. This legislation is meant to create equitable standards for the criteria required to obtain the State Seal of Biliteracy (SSB), specifically pertaining to English language learners.

“Obtaining the State Seal of Biliteracy should be achievable for multilingual students from all primary-language backgrounds,” Addis said. “Balancing this benchmark is a step in the right direction when it comes to equitable education.”

The Biliteracy Advancement Act would provide students with more options when testing for English proficiency, creating parity with the current second language testing alternatives and a fair path towards the State Seal of Biliteracy for all students. The SSB allows for students to showcase their proficiency in multiple languages to potential colleges and employers, as well as giving students a sense of pride in their primary language.

SLO County Chambers Meet with Senator Laird, Assemblymember Addis

Atascadero Chamber president/CEO and members attended the roundtable meeting

ATASCADERO — Earlier this February, the San Luis Obispo Cham-

ber of Commerce hosted Senator John Laird, Assemblymember Dawn Addis, and the Atascadero, Cayucos, Los Osos/Baywood Park, Morro Bay, South County, Pismo Beach, and South County Chambers of Commerce.

The regional chamber leaders met with the state representatives to share the challenges facing businesses in

each of their communities, and to get an update on the ongoing work related to the recent floods and storm recovery.

Atascadero Chamber President/ CEO Josh Cross and Atascadero Chamber Board member Raechelle Bowlay attended a roundtable meeting with Laird and Addis during which the state representatives shared informa-

tion about their recent tour to observe storm damage on the Central Coast.

According to Cross, “If you are a business owner or resident who needs help recovering from the recent storms, I encourage you to visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Center at the SLO Vets Hall. Representatives from various organizations will be onsite to help

with recovery and financial assistance.”

The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Sunday. County Services such as Behavioral Health, Planning and Building, and Social Services will be available at the Disaster Recovery Center on weekdays from 1 to 7 p.m. and on the weekend from 1 to 5 p.m.

Members of Team Rubicon helped other volunteers from The Holloway Group clean up debris from Pat and Vicki Cardoza’s ranch in Oceano.

News Briefs: North San Luis Obispo County

PASO ROBLES

Paso Robles Teen Arrested for Drug and Weapon-Related Charges

A Paso Robles teen has been arrested and sent to juvenile hall after a handgun was found in their vehicle.

Shortly before 1 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 3, a Paso Robles Police Officer conducted a traffic stop on Niblick Road for an equipment violation. The 17-year-old driver pulled over into the parking lot of Paso Robles High School.

According to a press release from PRPD, during the traffic stop, the officer noticed a large amount of marijuana on the backseat. While conducting a search of the vehicle, officers located an unloaded 80 percent Glock-style handgun and a partially loaded high-capacity magazine inside a bag. The driver was arrested for drug and weapon-related charges and transported to Juvenile Hall.

During this incident, there was no threat to PRHS identified. Paso Robles Police School resource officers were in contact with school administrators to ensure student safety.

This is an ongoing investigation, and the Paso Robles Police Department is requesting anyone with any information to call the PRPD at (805) 237-6464 or persons wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers’ 24-hour hotline at (805) 549-STOP or by texting “SLOTIPS” plus your message” to CRIMES (274637).

City to Discuss New Downtown Parking Program

Paso Robles City Council will be discussing the Downtown On-Street Parking Program at the next City Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 6:30 p.m.

City Council meetings can be attended in person at City Hall, 1000 Spring St., or remotely. Meetings are live-streamed at prcity.com/youtube, or

you can call (805) 865-7276.

Paso Robles Police Investigate Two Separate Assaults

The Paso Robles Polie Department are investigating two separate assaults that occurred the night of Friday, Feb. 10.

Around 7:20 p.m., officers responded to Walmart for a stabbing victim. According to PRPD, the victim was stabbed three times in the Salinas Riverbed, before walking to Walmart for help. The victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect in this case is described as a transient male wearing a baseball cap, white shirt, and blue jeans.

About an hour later, a call came in regarding a drive-by shooting in the Rite Aid parking lot, located on Spring Street. Two victims were standing in the parking lot when a vehicle drove by, southbound on Spring Street. An occupant of the vehicle shot several rounds at the two victims. PRPD reports that no one was struck by the gunfire.

Detectives processed both scenes, interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence. They believe the two incidents are unrelated.

These are ongoing investigations, and the Paso Robles Police Department is requesting anyone with any information to call the PRPD at (805) 237-6464 or persons wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers’ 24-hour hotline at (805) 549-STOP or by texting “SLOTIPS” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

Arrest Made for Friday Stabbing Incident

As reported on Friday, Feb. 10, Paso Robles Police officers and detectives responded to a stabbing victim, who claimed to have been stabbed in the Salinas Riverbed.

According to detectives, the victim fabricated his original story of the events

MISSING PERSON FOUND

APD Locate Missing Teen

Magnolia has reportedly been found safe in Fresno

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Police Department has located an at-risk missing teen who was reported missing on Monday, Feb. 13.

leading up to his stabbing. The victim was not stabbed in the riverbed by an unknown transient. Detectives uncovered that the victim was in an argument in a vehicle with a female acquaintance, Katelyn Coffey (29) of Paso Robles. During the argument, Coffey stabbed the victim several times, before dropping him off at Walmart. We also learned the stabbing occurred outside city limits, in rural Paso Robles.

Early Saturday morning, Coffey was located by PRPD detectives in California Valley. She was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a controlled substance. Coffey was booked in the SLO County Jail.

The Paso Robles Police Department also intends to pursue charges against the victim in this case for his false report of facts that led to wasted time and resources.

ATASCADERO

Wood Chipping Program Returns to Atascadero

The San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council has awarded Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services grant funds for hazardous fuel reduction for 2023. This program, referred to as chipping, will be offered to those properties in the Wildland Urban Interface fire area map within city limits. Registration begins on Feb. 1, and chipping will begin on March 1.

The City of Atascadero has contracted with Hansen Bros. Custom Farming to complete chipping services and representatives will provide ID upon request. Please contact the chipping program coordinator with any questions.

Please stack branches with the butt ends facing the same direction. Branch diameter can be up to 5 inches round with the length not to exceed 15 feet. Please keep piles free of household trash, processed lumber, poison oak, and

oleander, and avoid vine-type vegetation as this may jam the chipper. The photos below will show you the correct way to stack your branches.

For more information regarding wildfire safety, backyard burning, weed abatement and chipping visit, atascadero.org/fd.

Please register online at atascadero. org/chipping or by calling (805) 470-3300.

Adult Kickball Spring Season Registration Now Open

The City of Atascadero is now offering a third season of the Adult Kickball League this spring. Games will be held on Wednesday evenings/nights at the Paloma Creek Softball fields.

The spring season is scheduled to begin games on Wednesday, April 19, and run through June 7. The season will include eight evenings of games. Each game will last seven innings or one hour, whichever comes first. All teams will be coed, and applications are accepted on a team basis only, with a minimum of 11 players and a maximum of 15 players.

A team manager’s meeting will be held the week before games are set to begin. The time and date are to be determined.

League fees are $421 per team. Non-residents are $5 per player, and eight or more non-residents add 10 percent ($42.10). Team Registration and fees must be turned in at the front desk of the Colony Park Community Center located at 5599 Traffic Way, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 24.

Man Arrested for Suspected DUI-Related Car Crash

California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to a suspected DUI crash that left three people injured on Friday, Feb. 10, around 7:50 a.m.

The Friday morning crash happened on Highway 58 east of Santa Margarita near Goldie Lane. According to the California Highway Patrol, a 19-year-old man from Santa Maria was driving westbound at a high rate of speed when he lost control of his vehicle in a curve in the road and hit two trees before going down an embankment.

The driver and one of his four passengers reportedly suffered major injuries. Another passenger had minor injuries. The CHP says the driver, identified as Luis H. Montesinos, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Disaster CalFresh to Provide Food Assistance to Families Impacted by Winter Storms

In response to our recent severe winter storms, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved the California Department of Social Services’ request to operate Disaster CalFresh assistance in nine impacted counties, including San Luis Obispo County.

Disaster CalFresh provides temporary food assistance to eligible families and individuals affected by natural disasters. Families or individuals who lived or worked in SLO County between Dec. 27, 2022, and Jan. 25, 2023, and who were impacted by the storms, may be eligible for these benefits and are encouraged to apply. The application period for these temporary benefits is open for a limited time only, from Feb. 6 through 10, and again on Feb. 14 and 15. For more information about Disaster CalFresh, CalFresh eligibility, and how to apply visit the SLO Food Bank’s “Funds for Food” page at slofoodbank. org/money-to- buy-food.

APD received the report that Magnolia Gallagher, 15, was reported to have left her residence at 9 a.m. on Monday. According to APD, Magnolia was considered to be at risk due to her age and current mental state.

APD reported on Wednesday, Feb. 15 that Magnolia was located in Fresno and safely returned to her family.

CRIME

SLO County Man Sentenced for Committing Financial Fraud

Pemberton made misrepresentations in 2017 for a proposed business project in San Luis Obispo

SAN LUIS OBISPO

— SLO

County District

Attorney Dan Dow announced on Thursday, Feb. 9, that San Luis Obispo County Superior Court Judge Timothy S. Covello has sentenced Jeremy Walter Pemberton, 38, to serve a term of four years in state prison for the financial crimes he was convicted of by a jury in December 2022.

“White collar crime is a serious matter that often involves predatory practices against victims who are elderly and vulnerable,” Dow said. “I am proud of our special prosecutions unit that works hard to protect consumers and hold individuals and businesses accountable for their white collar crime.”

JEREMY W. PEMBERTON

The criminal case against Jeremy Walter Pemberton was based on evidence that Pemberton had made misrepresentations and omitted important material information during the course of fundraising efforts in 2017 for a proposed business project in San Luis Obispo.

During the trial, the jury heard evidence that Pemberton had misrepresented to investors the amount of financing he had received from other investors and failed to disclose that his lease for the business project property was in default. The location for the business

HELP INFORM THE FUTURE DECOMMISSIONING OF DIABLO CANYON.

Are you willing to serve on the volunteer Diablo Canyon Decommissioning Engagement Panel that fosters open dialogue between members of the local community and PG&E on topics regarding the future decommissioning of Diablo Canyon Power Plant near Avila Beach?

project was 1144 Chorro St., the former location of Sports Authority in downtown San Luis Obispo.

Pemberton’s plan was for his company, Discovery San Luis Obispo, to develop the site into a multi-use facility that included a bar, restaurant, and bowling alley. The project promoted by Pemberton was never completed.

In December, at the conclusion of the jury trial, Pemberton was found guilty of felony securities fraud, financial elder abuse, and grand theft by false pretenses and the jury determined the theft crimes were in an amount greater than $500,000.

Pemberton was remanded into the custody of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff for transport to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. He will be ordered to pay full restitution and a restitution status determination hearing is scheduled for May 23 in Department 1 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court.

Join the Engagement Panel. There are several positions subject to appointment or reappointment consistent with the Panel's Charter and the application period runs until March 7, 2023.

Learn more at https://diablocanyonpanel.org or www.pge.com/engagementpanel or scan the QR code:

March 2023 Schedule at the Atascadero Library

Many of the listed library programs are generously sponsored by the Friends of the Atascadero Library.

The new Atascadero Regional Library, located at 6555 Capistrano, two blocks from the historic City Hall and the Sunken Gardens, opened in June of 2014. It serves as the regional library for the north county region of San Luis Obispo County and provides reference and youth services to approximately 500 people a day.

Children Programs

Toddler Storytime

Join us for a storytime specifically designed for your toddler every Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. We will share stories, rhymes, and songs.

Preschool Storytime

Preschool storytime is on Friday mornings at 10:30 a.m. We share stories, songs, and movement.

Paws to Read

Come read to Jack the dog. All ages.

Thursday, March 2 & 23 at 3 p.m.

Youth Book Club

Talk about your favorite books — treats provided.

Saturday, March 4 at 2:30 p.m.

Grades 4-6.

Pyjama Drama

Join us for a fun interactive theatre class.

Saturday March 11 at 11 p.m.

Registration required.

Ages 5-9.

Battle of the Books Trivia

Test your Battle Book knowledge with competitive trivia.

Thursday, March 23 & 30 at 3:30 p.m.

Grades 4-6.

The NONPROFIT

Atascadero Greyhound Foundation

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

CONTACT INFO

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

Lego Club

Join us for some Lego building fun.

Saturday, March 25 at 2 p.m.

Registration required. Ages 5-12.

Teen Timetables

Teen Journal Making

Put your thoughts on paper in an expressive and creative way at our journaling workshop for teens.

Friday, Feb. 10 at 2 p.m.

Ages 10-17.

Teen Scene

Board games, art, Legos, and more!

Friday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. Ages 10-17.

Adult Programs

TMHA Outreach Team

Get connected with primary care, recovery, clothing, food, Medicare, shelter, mental health, and more.

Every Thursday at 10 a.m. California Native Plants for the Garden

Learn about native plants with a presentation from the local chapter of the California Native Plants Society.

Wednesday, March 15 at 2 p.m.

Eckerd Connects Job Center

Eckerd Connects’ Workforce Development assists people looking for employment.

Thursday, March 16 at 1 p.m.

Read-A-Latte Book Group

This month, the book group will discuss the Cuesta College Book of the Year All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir.

Saturday, March 18 at 10 p.m.

CONTACT INFO

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

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

Friends of the Paso Robles Library

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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

BOARD MEETINGS:

Call 805-237-3870 for info

Cancer Support Community – California Central Coast

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES

CONTACT INFO

1051 Las Tablas Rd. Templeton, CA 93465

(805) 238-4411

Monday - Thursday 9 am – 4 pm

Fridays by Appointment cscslo.org

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

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

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

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

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

CONTACT INFO

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

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.

Mike was an entertainer. He was a former music director and a featured instrumentalist at Country Tonite Theater in Pigeon Forge, TN,

A tascadero, California - Randy, 65, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2022, after a brief medical condition, with family by her side. Randy was born on July 19, 1957, in Hawthorne, California, to Paul and Marion Tipton. She graduated from Gardena High School in 1975. Randy moved to Atascadero after her parents transitioned here in 1980. Randy had a 30+ year career at the Atascadero Kmart and retired Feb 2020 due to their closure. Randy was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister,

for the last 25 years. He was also a former member of the Coal Miner Band. Mike toured with Loretta Lynn, Conway Twitty, George Jones, Box Car Willie, and several other notable acts.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, James Patrick Caldwell, and his mother, Betty (Mann) Caldwell.

Survivors include his wife, Sandra Caldwell; ex-wives, Kelly (Souders) Gardner of Portland, OR, Diana (Platt) Caldwell of Frankston, TX; son, Michael P. Caldwell (Wisnu Weinstock) of Portland, OR; stepsons, Riley Gentry (Paige Christopher) of Sevierville, TN, David

On January 4, 2023, Allan, 92, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Allan was born to Forrest and Wilma Emerson on a farm near Toledo, Iowa, on September 27, 1930. He was the first child of five. His father was a farmer most of his life, and Allan wanted to follow in his footsteps.

In Dec of 1937, Forrest, due to bad health, moved his family to Riverside, California, where Allan grew up and graduated from high school. In September of 1948, Allan enrolled in Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, California. While attending Cal Poly, Allan

2023, surrounded by his loving family.

and friend. She enjoyed baking, gardening, scrapbooking, and caring for her family, who were central to her life. She enjoyed carrying on in her mother’s footsteps and assisting in the care of her four foster sisters in Atascadero. Randy had a heart of gold infectious laugh and enjoyed helping her elderly neighbors any chance she could. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she made every effort to be present in their lives. Randy is survived by her four children;

Lurker (Keiliah Calloway) of Saint Martinville, LA, Derek Lurker (Kaitlyn Cogan) of Wilmington, DE; grandchildren, Gavin, Hayley, Chase, Catelyn, Carter, Abigail; brothers, Tomas Caldwell of Lodi, CA, James Caldwell (Seth LaLonde) of San Francisco, CA, Casey Caldwell of Albany, NY; sisters, Kathleen Caldwell of Denton, TX, Patricia Harris of Templeton, CA, Jane Sumner (Patrick) of Paso Robles, CA; sisters-in-law and brother-inlaw, Robin Rossi of Montclair, NJ, Brenda Breheny (Paul) of Hopatcong, NJ; many nieces and nephews. Memorial donations may be made

met his future wife, Ramona Cotton, at Grace Tabernacle Church in San Luis Obispo. They were married there on November 22, 1952. Allan was preceded in death by Ramona, his wife of 62 and a half years. Allan is survived by their four children, David, Dianna, Debby, and Donna, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

The family had lived in San Luis Obispo, Riverside, Hemet, and Pomona, before moving to Atascadero, California, in 1973. Many will remember Allan from his years serving at various financial institutions. He loved

at War Memorial Stadium supporting the Paso Robles Bearcats.

Jason Tipton of Palmer Lake, Co; John (Christy) Tipton of Atascadero, CA; Michael (Bri) Tipton of Atascadero, CA; Kelly (Patrick) Edmonds of Colorado Springs, Co; sister Connie Jo Llewelyn, brothers Ronnie Tipton, Gary Tipton, David Tipton, and Joe Tipton all of Atascadero, Ca; 13 grandchildren, with one additional on the way. She is preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Patricia Anne Tipton; niece, Jessica Tipton; and nephew, James Llewelyn.

to the William Rosebush Youth Scholarship Fund, Society for Preservation and Advancement of Harmonica (SPAH, Inc.), P. O. Box 551381, Dallas, TX 75355.

Friends may pay their respects from 11 AM to 7 PM, Friday, February 17, 2023, in the West Chapel of Atchley Funeral Home, Sevierville. The family will be present from 1-3 PM and 5-7 PM. The funeral service will follow at 7 PM. A Livestream of this service will be available via Mike’s obituary page on the Atchley Funeral Homes website. Condolences and memories may be shared at www. atchleyfuneralhome.com.

working with people. But he loved serving in the church most of all. Allan came to know Christ as his Savior at age 20. And as he grew in the knowledge and grace of his Lord, he began to serve in the church. He was active throughout his lifetime with teaching and discipling. He loved working with people.

Allan will be remembered for his service in the church and his love for people and the Lord. For the beautiful flowers he grew and the colorful birds he raised. But most of all, for the wonderful family he helped raise.

JANIS

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

STEVEN ARSENAULT, age 76 a resident of Morro Bay passed away on 02/06/2023

In the care of Blue Sky Cremation Service

FELIPE GONZALEZ, age 80 a resident of Paso Robles passed away on 02/07/2023

In the care of Blue Sky Cremation Service

ETHEL LENZ, 88, of Arroyo Grande, passed away February 8, 2023.

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

RICHARD “DICK” ROWLEY, 78, of Arroyo Grande, passed away February 8, 2023.

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

LAREY ALAN FIERMAN, 73, of Oceano passed away on February 9th 2023.

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

JO ANN DUBOIS, 88, of Grover Beach, passed away January 31, 2023.

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

HORTENSE MENDOZA, age 78 a resident of San Miguel passed away on 02/08/2023

In the care of Blue Sky Cremation Service

CLIVE RUPERT, age 61 a resident of Templeton passed away on 02/10/2023

Dwight Lester Haynes, of Paso Robles, California, went to be with his Heavenly Father on January 28,

Dwight was born in Paso Robles on October 3, 1924, graduating from Paso Robles High School in 1942. After graduating, he served four years in the United States Navy during World War II in the Pacific Theater and received an Honorable Discharge. He then returned to Paso Robles, where he settled until moving to Los Angeles in 1955. He returned to live in Paso Robles in 1991 and remained until his death. During this time, because of his love for people and desire to give, he volunteered with the Paso Robles Police Department and San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department, was active in many church activities, and spent many Friday nights

Ray Rafael Estrada, age 89, shy just two weeks of 90, passed away on November 19, 2022. Ray was a devoted, loving father, brother, husband, uncle, and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all. Ray was born in Lompoc, California, then settled in Paso Robles in 1946. He served with the U.S. Army in Okinawa, as he entered the army in 1954, and was assigned to “I” Company, 75th Regimental Combat Team as a machine gunner.

He was in the graduating class of 1953 Paso Robles Union High

Dwight enjoyed helping his community, but his favorite role was being a father and grandfather. He loved nothing more than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whether at gatherings with family or attending and supporting them in outside activities. This love also grew to include the children and grandchildren of his wife, Ellen (Baker). Dwight was a truly special man who will be missed greatly by many.

Dwight is survived by his wife, Julie (who resides in Oregon for health reasons). He was predeceased by wives

School, where he had met lifelong friends, including his wife, Charlene Joy Harmon. They married on June 23, 1956. They shared four children. Kim, Dena, Guy, and Darren. Ray loved to travel, especially in his 5th-wheel camper. He and his wife Charlene loved to travel around in the 5th wheel. They called themselves snowbirds. He also enjoyed watching football, especially when there was a 49ers game on. Ray loved fixing things, and the man could fix anything that needed fixing! He was a force of nature.

11:30 — Jason Soto, of Los Osos was taken into custody on the 900 block of Park Street for OUTSIDE WARRANT/M, Case no. 230404

13:19 — Zachary Sterretti, of Paso Robles was on-view arrest on the 500 block of Rose Lane for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 230408

22:15 — Joe Sweet, of Paso Robles

Ellen (Baker), Frances (Walker), and Marilyn (Brown). He is survived by three loving children, Karen (Cook), Paul (Haynes), and Kathy (Zinman), along with six grandchildren (Jenna, Jeremy, Michael, Joshua, Krystal, and Matt), seven great-grandchildren (Jordan, Brooks, Mason, Patience, Serenity, Archer, and Louie), and two great, great-grandchildren (Olivia and Maddox).

Burial and a time for sharing will be held at Paso Robles District Cemetery on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Central Coast Hospice in his name.

Fun fact, his grandson, Gabriel Ray Estrada, carries on the Estrada name on Ray’s side. Grandpa Ray had a special bond with his grandchildren.

We are having a celebration of life gathering held for Ray at 12:00 pm on February 25 at the mid-state fairgrounds in the frontier pavilion. The address is 2198 Riverside Ave, Paso Robles, CA 93446. Please contact Missy Estrada at her email missyestrada17@yahoo.com if you have any questions regarding Ray’s celebration of life ceremony.

In the care of Blue Sky Cremation Service

From the Right and the Left: Systemic Racism It’s Not About Black and White As Much As Black and Blue

The so-called “blue wall of silence,” where police officers refuse to speak out against their own, regardless of the seriousness of the crime, error, or misconduct, is all too similar to the Italian code of Omertà employed by criminal organizations like the Cosa Nostra. We must execute changes that encourage respect, trust, and confidence in law enforcement.

The 1973 movie

“Serpico,” starring Al Pacino, traced the true story of an undercover police officer in New York City who refused to engage in illegal and unethical activities commonly in practice in the NYPD. In real life, Frank Serpico testified before the Knapp Commission on Police Corruption with the following admonishment: “The problem is that the atmosphere does not yet exist in which honest police officers can act without fear of ridicule or reprisal from fellow officers.” The same policing culture that existed in the early 1970s has changed very little over the past half-century.

With the help of technological advances, we are capable of seeing with our own eyes acts of unthinkable savagery perpetrated by those who wear a badge and a gun under the pretense of protecting and serving the public. The most recent videos document the brutal and horrific treatment of a 29-year-old African American in Memphis, Tennessee, under the questionable pretext of a traffic stop, which has left a family devastated with grief and a 4-year-old fatherless.

In the past several years, we have had to witness similar police atrocities, leaving some to question the need to defund and others the need to seriously reform policing policies and their implementation. Calls to reform qualifications for duty, address systemic racism, institute community policing, and eliminate qualified immunity, among others, have failed to see legislative redress, and the sad reality is that we should expect police violence to continue.

In the most recent travesty, which resulted in the death of Tyre Nichols, both the perpetrators and the victim were black, sparking conservative outcry that racism was not a factor. Ironically, some on the liberal spectrum are questioning whether racism played a role in the swift firing and serious charges, including second-degree murder, of the five officers involved to date in the vicious treatment of Mr. Nichols.

There is an underlying current that suggests that because both the officers and the victim were black there has been a muted degree of protest across the country, such as was witnessed in the George Floyd case. To suggest that this is not a case of institutional racism is unwarranted.

The swift actions taken by the Memphis Police Department and the ongoing efforts to relieve others who stood by and took no actions whatsoever, such as the first responders who inexplicably did not render attention to the victim for nearly a half-hour, and the family’s very public grieving and calls for non-violence, eerily echoing Martin Luther King, Jr.’s mantra in the city where he was killed nearly 55 years ago, most likely have had a calming effect to thwart violent protests.

Bakari Sellers, a former South Carolina state legislator, civil rights attorney and CNN contributor, captured the lack of outrage as follows: “For many Black folks, the race of a cop is cop.”

Shaun Harper writes in Forbes: “In 1897, W.E.B. DuBois noted that among

the most corrosive effects of racism was its tendency to make its victims see themselves through the eyes of people who hold them in contempt.” Harper asserts that institutional racism is a culture to which those in policing adhere, explaining how “five Black men could engage in police brutality, leading to the death of another Black man.

They participated in the same trainings as white cops. They entered a profession that was born of anti-Blackness (slave catchers were America’s original law enforcement officers).

They worked in a place where decades of anti-black policies and tactics were created. How a police department behaves, thinks about Black communities, and mistreated Black people informs how its employees engage with the Black citizens they were hired to protect and serve — even when they’re Black.”

As in most public policy issues, it is often somewhat more complicated than it at first appears. While diversifying police departments has made some improvement in police culture, it is only a beginning. Professor Jody Armour, a USC law professor offers “We have a very simplistic way of approaching the problem of policing and believing that representation is some kind of silver bullet … it’s not just a Black and white issue, but a Black and blue one. And when you put on that blue uniform, it often becomes the primary identity that drowns out any other identities that might compete with it.”

Shifting the focus on certain actions of individuals as bad apples is, excuse the expression, a cop-out. We must focus on racism as a systemic problem.

Lance Simmens is an independent columnist for The Malibu Times, he along with Don Schmitz write a bi-weekly column on national topics from the perspective of their political leanings you can forward any comments you have to editorial @malibutimes.com.

OGeorge Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who kneeled on his neck while he was handcuffed on the ground for nine minutes. On Jan. 7, 2023, Tyre Nichols was tased, pepper sprayed, and beaten to death by six Memphis police officers.

All four Minneapolis police officers were fired the next day after the department reviewed the videos, and a short four days later, Chauvin was charged with murder. Memphis moved slower: The six officers were fired two weeks later, indicted a week after that, and have been charged with second-degree murder. In both cases the victims were Black, and both pled for their mothers to help them as they were being killed on our streets by abusive cops. Soul crushing. The dichotomy in our country’s reaction to these events is striking and thought-provoking. The Floyd murder sparked the biggest national protests since the civil rights movement of the 1960s, in over 2,000 cities, 200 of which had to impose curfews due to looting, arson, and murders. Sixty-thousand National Guard personnel were deployed. Courthouses were firebombed, police stations were vandalized or burned, and monuments were destroyed around the country. Up to $2 billion in property damage occurred in the riots, and at least 18 people died, with many injured. In contrast, the protests in response to the Nichols killing have been exponentially smaller, and except for some minor vandalism, peaceful.

Why is that? As repulsive as Chauvin’s kneeling on Floyd’s neck was, the sheer brutality of the beating of Nichols last month with fists and batons, while he was restrained with his hands behind his back, eclipses it. Both victims were Black, with the obvious difference being in the Floyd case, the officers were white, whereas in the Nichols case, all the officers were also Black. Some have tried to rationalize the difference in our reaction to the responsiveness of the government in taking to task the police brutality in Memphis, but in reality, the Minneapolis police officers were terminated and charged with a crime quicker. Clearly, it’s the race of the abusive police that makes the difference.

I am a strong supporter of law enforcement, which is sometimes a violent and messy business when they need to subdue criminals who are resisting arrest. It can involve profanity, pepper spray, Tasers, batons, fists, and sometimes gunfights. They have a tough job, and sometimes it’s ugly, but overwhelmingly law enforcement is measured and conscientious. But when we see white police officers violently subduing black people, it triggers strong negative emotions in Americans.

Until the last half-century, we had a horrible record in parts of the country of abusive behavior to our Black citizenry. On bloody Sunday, March 7, 1965, in Alabama, state and county police brutally attacked peaceful civil rights marchers on horseback with whips and clubs, hospitalizing dozens. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. organized another march two days later, and the brutal images galvanized America. The civil rights act was passed, with Democrat support only in the mid-60 percent range, while Republican support was in the 80th percentile, led by Everett Dirksen. We’ve come a long, long way, and we are not going to go back, but we are still hypersensitive to those images. Many Democrats

Power, Paso Robles, and the Transgender Train Wreck

bequeath power to the leader. Eventually, the leader, satiated with dominance, becomes as unjust as his original opponent.

tity: power for power’s sake.

the transgender movement.

regularly exploit the race card to attack political opponents, which is inflammatory and dangerous. In the recent Nichols case, President Biden still invoked his race, even though the police beating him were also Black. When an abusive cop is white, many presume his actions are racially motivated, with or without evidence, in part because the left inculcates entire communities with a drumbeat of “systemic racism.” Just elect them into power, and they will get it all fixed, they say, while proposing disastrous policies like defunding law enforcement. Where tried, defunding and disengagement has resulted in skyrocketing crime including rape, burglary, drug dealing, and murder, disproportionately in black neighborhoods. Interestingly, Gallup polls have shown that black Americans prefer to maintain police presence in their neighborhoods similar to the percentages of other Americans. However, Black and white Americans differ in their confidence in police more than any other U.S. institution, a 29 percent gap according to a 2021 Gallup poll. We have a lot of work still to do.

However, there may be a silver lining to this latest tragic event in Memphis. The police brutality, filmed and evident for all to see, doesn’t have the racial overtones of others, although the radical left will still try to contrive a theory on why it’s racism based. Truth is, all Americans of all races want safe communities for their children and to run their businesses. Maybe we are turning a corner where we all view them as “our police,” and work together for constructive reforms to eliminate abuse while maintaining their efficacy. Maybe.

Don Schmitz is an independent columnist for The Malibu Times, he along with Lance Simmens write a bi-weekly column on national topics from the perspective of their political leanings you can forward any comments you have to editorial@ malibutimes.com.

Power. The history of humans is interwoven with accounts of the use and misuse of power.

Harvard Business Review wrote, “Having once been wary of power is no guarantee that you are immune to abusing it. We are all susceptible to its intoxicating effects.”

But you don’t have to read studies on power to understand its perils. Just read history. Throughout time, an individual or group starts with an honest cause based on true need or true injustice. As the movement grows, it gains followers who

Probably the best example of the rabid abuse of power would be Adolph Hitler. He came on the scene at a time of severe depredation for the people of Germany due to the results of World War I. The nation had been stripped of their resources and pride. Hitler promised restoration and hope, which was needed.

But once Hitler tasted power, he charged headlong into amassing complete control over Germany. You know the rest of the story. Hitler illustrates how the accumulation of authority becomes like a roaring freight train. When the massive engine is ignited, it increases in speed, losing sight of the original cause and careening into a new iden-

This hurtling freight train effect can also happen to a “movement.” When the gay rights drive for equality started in the 1960s, it was a good thing, a much-needed change. And through the next 50 years, they incrementally achieved their goals of equal rights in employment, in marriage, adoption, benefits, insurance, entertainment, the military, public office and basically the ability to live openly and honestly within society.

But the freight train of growing funds, government and media support was not to be relinquished even though most of the major objectives had been met. Since no one willingly gives up a position of power, the second generation of gay rights leaders charged into new territory, that of

It wasn’t enough for them to advocate rights for transgender adults. The next step was to spread their message into the schools and media to promote transgender options for children and teens. It was at this point that the gay rights freight train began veering off the tracks. Most people inherently know there is something very wrong with this. Stanford Medicine states, “It doesn’t matter how smart teens are or how well they scored on the SAT. Good judgment isn’t something they can excel in, at least not yet. The rational part of a teen’s brain isn’t fully developed and won’t be until age 25 or so.”

Secondly, even those medical professionals involved in youth transgender treatment admit that “their biggest concerns are there isn’t enough research

into effect of stalling puberty… unknown are the long-term effects on bone density, brain development, mental health and reduced fertility.”

Six states have outlawed gender change medical procedure for minors, with 21 states considering it. They see the dangers in the new ‘medically acceptable child abuse.’ Just as perilous is the school counselor or teacher encouraging a vulnerable child down this path.

Back to the freight train. Unfortunately, for the original gay rights movement the promotion of youth transgender “rights” is causing the careening train to propel itself off the tracks. The prejudice that gays experienced is now being inflicted by the transgender zealots on anyone who does not agree with them through name-calling and labels.

So, the movement has come

full circle, from being the oppressed to becoming the oppressor. Locally, the loud voice of the transgender wing of the LBGTQ movement has not only divided the citizens of Paso Robles but has forced the school district into spending a half million dollars for a School Board Trustee vote based on this one issue.

The voters of Paso Robles have a chance to stand up to the loud noise of the LGBTQ runaway freight train. I believe that School Board candidate Kenney Enney is a reasonable, balanced and experienced leader who can successfully navigate the districts’ course through the transgender train wreck.

Connie Pillsbury is an independent opinion columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at conniepillsbury22@gmail.com.

CONNIE PILLSBURY OPINION COLUMNIST

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PUBLIC NOTICE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230114 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: PAIGE LYNN

Name Statement, Expires 01/17/2028 PUB: 01/26, 02/02, 02/09, 02/16/2023 LEGAL CM 27

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230122

THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: HUNTER MOON RANCH, 1250 ATASCADERO RD, MORRO BAY, CA 93442, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A MARRIED COUPLE, KAITLIN NADINE MIROYAN, 1250 ATASCADERO RD, MORRO BAY, CA 93442, CHARLES PATRICK HEVENER, 1250 ATASCADERO RD, MORRO BAY, CA 93442

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/ KAITLIN NADINE MIROY-

AN This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 01/17/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: NOT APPLICABLE CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20230126 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: THE GOODTIME GETAWAY, 2527 SHORELINE ROAD, BRADLEY, CA 93930, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A MARIED COUPLE, DENA LEE PANTOJA, 44103 VIA CANADA, KING CITY, CA 93930, WILLIE PANTOJA, 44103 VIA CANADA, KING CITY, CA 93930 If Corporation

on file in my office.

IS/ARE DOING

AS: BRIGHT LIGHT, 3560 COLIMA ROAD, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO

who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)

/S/ STEPHANIE PAIGE HARRIS This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 01/17/2023

TRANSACTING BUSINESS

DATE: 01/17/2023

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

ELAINA CANO, County Clerk

By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL

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

AWAKENING WAYS SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY

A New Thought Spiritual Community. Living the Consciously Awakened Life. Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue Sunday 10:00am at the Pavilion 9315 Pismo Way, Atascadero (805) 460-0762. awakeningways.org

GRACE CENTRAL COAST NORTH COUNTY CAMPUS

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

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH

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

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH

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

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA

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

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER-LCMS

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

PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC

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

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF ATASCADERO

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

ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

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

Elks Annual Garage Sale and Soup

Directions:

Ipicked up a calendar at the Atascadero Chamber the other day, not because I needed a new one, but because each day was identified with more than a date. For instance, there’s Lost Penny Day, Tortellini Day, Gumdrop Day, Sticky Bun Day, Drink Wine Day (who needs a special day to do that?), Public Sleeping Day, and Random Acts of Kindness Day, just to name a few.

If your Atascadero News or your Paso Robles Press newspaper came today (Thursday), it’s Almond Day, which is appropriate for this area, as is Drink Wine Day, wouldn’t you say? It will make for an interesting year, just looking at the calendar to see what day it is besides Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc.

The Atascadero Elkettes/

Elks #2733 are holding their 17th annual garage sale on Friday, Feb. 17, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Elks Lodge 1516 El Camino Real, Atascadero. I think we should call the event “The Elkettes Amazing Garage Sale Weekend” and add it to the calendar.

According to member Jacquie Paulsen, “The Lodge is filled inside and outside with something for everyone, like linens, household items, sports-related items, guy-stuff, home decor items, furniture, and so much more.” She said there are no clothes or shoes at the sale. However, the sale is open to the public.

As cold as it has been lately, I tend to want a bowl of hot soup, either for lunch or for dinner. Fortunately, my husband loves soup, and he is content with soup, salad, and a slice of good French or sourdough bread.

I scoured one of my cookbooks, “The California Heritage Cookbook,” compiled by

The Junior League of Pasadena in 1976, looking for soup recipes to share with you. You may already have a similar recipe for this soup, but this one calls for fresh tomatoes, green pepper, and dry red wine among the ingredients. I think you will find it will become a favorite.

Italian Sausage Soup

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds Italian sausage, medium spice, cut in 1/4-inch slices

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 onions, chopped

• 2 pounds tomatoes, peeled and cored

1 1/2 cups dry red wine

5 cups beef stock

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 1 medium green pepper, seeded and chopped

2 medium zucchini, sliced

1/4-inch thick

2 cups bow-tie noodles

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How To Stay Married

lee pitts COLUMNIST

The other day I saw one of those bikes that looks like the riders are lying down while they peddle. Only this bike was a little different. The husband was facing forward with his legs peddling out in front of him while his wife was behind him, facing backward and peddling in the opposite direction. Yet the bike was moving forward.

If that isn’t a fitting metaphor for marriage, I don’t know what is.

Next year my wife and I will celebrate 50 years of wedded bliss. My marriage is the thing I am most proud of in my life, and I knew after our first date that Diane was the one I wanted to spend the rest of my life with.

Still, I was reluctant to ask, “Will you marry me?”

I was afraid she’d reply, “Will I what?” Or, “I’d rather drink a gallon of paint thinner.”

Statistics reveal that marriage,

or what is now referred to as “the sociocultural interface” or “two or more people sharing a living space,” is now an alternative lifestyle and a dying institution. I have a friend who’s been married so many times the preacher gives him a volume discount and he could live for a month on the rice that’s collected in the pockets of his suit. Another monogamously challenged acquaintance jokingly refers to his “five-mile wedding license” and “his current wife.”

Having a great marriage is not easy and there are sacrifices one has to make. For example, I was raised on Miracle Whip and was shocked to find out from my bride that, “Only poor people eat Miracle Whip.” She ate real Mayonnaise and wouldn’t have Miracle Whip in the house. I figured this was a battle not worth fighting.

Then there’s her choice in football teams. She’s been a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers ever since Terry Bradshaw played for them. (She’s got his thing for Bradshaw, I don’t understand.)

Whereas I’ve liked the 49ers ever since I became friends with their offensive line coach, who

invited us once a year to sit in the owner’s box to watch a game. You can imagine how humiliated I was when she rooted for the Steelers while eating cheese puffs in the owner’s box of the Niners. Rather than argue, I just gave up watching football.

My wife says I only have two faults, I don’t listen and ... I forget the other one. Oh yea, it’s my driving. Although you really couldn’t call it that as all I did was hold the steering wheel. She used to constantly tell me, “Slow down. Speed up. Don’t pass. Don’t let that jerk cut you off.” I finally made the ultimate sacrifice and gave up driving after having a debilitating stroke. (Seizures and driving don’t mix.) This meant she had to do all the driving and we haven’t had a fight ever since. My neighbors have the same problem and have to drive two vehicles even when going to the same place.

I did have a minor victory in the toilet paper and paper towel department though. You won’t believe this, but my wife was taught that the paper was to come off the back of the roll while I was normal and knew the proper way was for it to

In a 5-quart Dutch oven cook sausage over medium heat until lightly browned, 7-10 minutes. Remove sausage with slotted spoon to a plate. Drain all but 3 tablespoons of fat from kettle. Add garlic and onions to same kettle and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until transparent. Add slightly cooked sausage and cook another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add tomatoes, stirring to break them apart. Add wine, stock, basil, and oregano and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes. (At this point you may refrigerate the soup.) Skim the excess fat from top of soup. Reheat soup before proceeding, if necessary. Add parsley, green pepper, zucchini, and noodles. Simmer covered for 25 minutes or until the noodles are al dente. Serve in deep soup bowls, passing Parmesan in a separate bowl. Serves 8-12

Enjoy. Cheers!

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

cascade down the front.

I also realized right away that if our marriage was going to last, I’d have to give up control of three things: the remote control and two books ... cook and check.

The best advice I ever got on how to stay married came from my Grandpa, who I never heard get in a fight with Grandma. When he gave me the family heirloom diamond ring that was to be Diane’s engagement ring, he said, “If the husband or wife starts to get a little hot under the collar, the wife should go to the kitchen, and the man should go to the garage. The man will get a little quality time in the shop and maybe even some hot chocolate chip cookies. As for the wife, there’s always the possibility that the car will fall off the jack stands, and she’ll get to collect on the life insurance policy.”

Oh, and I almost forgot this tip ... generally speaking, the couple that laughs together stays together.

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

You Are Surrounded By Love

In the face of tragedy, taking care of ourselves and our well-being is essential. This can mean reaching out to loved ones for support, practicing self-care, or finding ways to contribute to relief efforts in a way that feels meaningful to you.

their worry during a crisis:

“When I was a boy, and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

Alot is going on in our world right now. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the suffering of others, especially when it’s a large-scale tragedy like the earthquake in Turkey.

In times like these, it’s important to remember that there is always hope and goodness in the world. People from all over the world come together to offer support and assistance to those affected by disasters — a testament to the resilience and kindness of the human spirit. Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of those suffering.

Remember that you are not alone in your sadness and that there is always hope for healing and recovery.

While we may be experiencing sadness and grief, we can choose to focus on the love and joy that still exist in our lives. We can trust that the Universe is always conspiring for our highest good and that comfort and healing are available. Let us affirm that we are surrounded by love and support and that peace and joy return to our lives in abundance, as always.

I love Mr. Rogers’s advice for children as part of a holistic approach to managing

He suggests that in times of crisis or distress, it is comforting to focus on the people who are helping rather than on the scary or adverse events themselves. When we see helpers, we are reminded that there are still good and caring people in the world who are working to make a difference and alleviate suffering. By seeking out and acknowledging these helpers, we can find hope and reassurance that positive change is possible and that we can all play a role in making a difference.

This quote also highlights the vital role of caregivers, parents, and other trusted adults in helping children

process and cope with difficult news and events. We are all grown-up children who can also benefit from the wise words of Mr. Rogers. Being distressed and worrying about news events is not helpful for our mental or spiritual health. Instead, look for the helpers, and connect with the God of your understanding by praying, meditating, finding ways you can support, and being kind to others. Remember not to isolate - find kindred souls to be with in community for connection. You are always welcome to join us on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. at the Pavilion on the Lake in Atascadero. You are surrounded by love. And so it is.

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

barbie butz COLUMNIST

rev. elizabeth rowley hogue COLUMNIST

Gary Kuhn Honored by Rio Mesa High School Hall of Fame Ceremony

Former Greyhound cross country coach led team to success from 1975 to 1985

By CONNOR ALLEN Special to Paso Robles Press

ATASCADERO — Former

Atascadero Greyhound cross country coach and world history teacher Gary Kuhn was inducted into the Rio Mesa High School Hall of Fame this past October for leading the Spartans to their first-ever CIF Championship in 1968. Kuhn, who retired from teaching in 2002, also led the Greyhounds cross-country team to success during his tenure, especially between 1975 and 1985.

“My first year was 1967 at Rio Mesa high school and I was working as a PE teacher and a track coach,” Kuhn told the Atascadero News. “I was there for three years and in my second year, I inherited a good little team [cross-country.]

I think it was one of the first years of the school’s existence. Then, in 1968 we won the small division CIF cross country title. That was the first championship in the school’s history because it was a brand new school.”

Rio Mesa High School was founded in 1965 and was, indeed the cross country team that brought the Spartans their first piece of hardware. This year, on Oct. 9, during the Spartans’ homecoming game against Oxnard, Kuhn and his entire cross country team were immortalized in the school’s Hall of Fame and honored before the game.

“The ceremony was awesome. It was interesting because it was 54 years later that we were recognized as the 1968 champions but it was really nice to be recognized at Rio Mesa’s Homecoming game against the Oxnard Yellowjackets,” Kuhn explained. “They introduced us before the game and it was incredible to see all those guys. We had a great time there and then we had breakfast the next morning that lasted three hours because we were just sharing stories from the past. It was just a great time.”

Kuhn left the Rio Mesa program after just three years and headed out to Michigan before eventually finding his way back to California with a job offer from Atascadero High School. After a year of serving as an assistant coach, Kuhn inherited the cross country team and turned them into one of the top teams in the section year in and year out.

“In my first year we only had six guys on the team and they weren’t the best runners,” Kuhn remembered. “I don’t mean this in a mean way, but they were kind of just the PE rejects that didn’t have a team to call home.”

Kuhn attributes a large part of the success of his Atascadero teams to a coaching clinic that he attended at American River Community College, which was and continues to be a top distance running program in the state of California. Kuhn came back to Atascadero and implemented what he learned, and the results flew in.

Kuhn and the Greyhounds won the Los Padres League nine out of 11 years in the mid-’70s and ‘80s and even came home as

CIF runners-up.

“We were runners-up one year for CIF while I was in Atascadero and our main rival those days [In CIF] was a school called Sherman Indian High School in Riverside, and they were tough to beat because they could recruit,” Kuhn said. “They would recruit kids from four or five different states around, New Mexico, Arizona — that type of thing — and they basically ruled the 1-A Section.”

Although Kuhn retired in 2002, he has kept busy with his passions, which are teaching and coaching. For the past 20 years, he has been

touring around, giving history presentations at senior centers across the county. In recent years, he has even taken up coaching with a local standout runner, Tyler Daillak.

Daillak, who readers might remember from 2017, gained notoriety as he was finishing in the top 10 in local 5Ks and setting records as a 10-year-old running phenom. In the summers between in seventh- and eighth-grade seasons, Daillak has been training with Kuhn and has already begun to rack up a few records for the Bearcats in his freshman season.

T-BALL YOUTH SPORTS

Spring Tee Ball

Practices begin the week of March 28; league games begin Tuesday, April 18, and run through May 18

ATASCADERO — The City of Atascadero’s Recreation team is looking forward to another season for Youth Tee Ball. The Tee Ball league will focus on teaching the basics of baseball in a low-key and instructional atmosphere with a main goal of having fun.

Tee Ball is open to boys and girls who are 4.5 to 6 years old. Practices and games will take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Paloma Creek Park.

The trophy earned by Rio Mesa High for winning the CIF title in cross country in 1968 is shown in the school’s yearbook. Former Atascadero cross country coach Gary Kuhn coached that RMHS team and was recently inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame.

Practices will begin the week of March 28 and league games will begin on Tuesday, April 18, and run through May 18. A coach’s meeting will be scheduled for Thursday, March 23 (time to be determined) at Paloma Creek Park.

Registration can be done in person at the Colony Park Community Center, Monday through Friday, during customer service hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or online at atascadero.org. Cost is $85 for residents and $95 for non-residents.

Registration ends March 3.

Volunteer coaches and team sponsors are needed to keep this program going. For more information, please call (805) 470-3362 or email llopez@ atascadero.org.

Practice will begin the week of March 13 and season will last through Monday, May 22 Ana achieved League Champion for CCAA Mountain League in Girl's Wrestling

ATASCADERO — The City of Atascadero’s Recreation team is ramping up for the Coed Junior Volleyball League. Games and practices will be held on Monday evenings at the Colony Park Community Center, and practice will begin the week of March 13, with the season lasting through the league ending date of Monday, May 22.

The Coed Junior Volleyball League places emphasis

on learning fundamentals, expanding skills, player participation, teamwork, and fun. The cost is $75 for residents and $82.50 for non-residents. Players will receive a team shirt and participation award.

Practice/Game times: third/ fourth-graders at 5:30 p.m., fifth/sixth-graders at 6:30 p.m. and seventh/eighth-graders at 7:30 p.m.

Registration can be done in person at the Colony Park

Community Center, Monday through Friday, during customer service hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or online at atascadero.org.

Registration ends Monday, Feb 27.

The city is looking for volunteer coaches and team sponsors to keep this program going.

For more information, please call (805) 470-3360 or email llopez@atascadero.org.

A page in the Rio Mesa High yearbook for 1968-69 is devoted to the Spartans CIF championship cross country team, coached by Gary Kuhn, who would later find success coaching cross country at Atascadero High. Contributed Photos

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3. LANGUAGE: What does the Latin phrase "tempus fugit" mean?

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Outer ear.

Spain.

Farewells were then said to the outgoing 2022 board members:

• Steven Herring | 2022 Chairman of the Board | All About Events

• Miranda Battenburg | SLO Sweets

Rex Caudle | Battery Systems

Rich Clayton | California Coast

Beer Co.

Jim Cogan | 805 AgTech

• Lisa Colwell | DAOU Vineyards

• Robert Covarrubias | Cova Lending

• Elizabeth Covert | A.M. Sun Solar

• Aletha Ens | Layered Accounting

• Dr. Maria Escobedo | Cuesta College

Shonna Howenstine | City of Paso Robles

Kathy Kelly | Digs Vacation Rentals

Sarah Martin | HFG Coastal Insurance

Kathy Nutt | Michael’s Optical

• Victor Popp | La Quinta Inn & Suites

• Stephanie Roberts | River Oaks Hot Springs

• Mike Talen | Cold Stone Creamery

• Debbie Thomas | Thomas Hill Organics

Thomas White | WTC Services, LLC

Ashley Wilken | The Rice Partnership

SMART DETECTIVE

CONTINUED FROM A1 detective. And then in 2019 he was assigned to the Kristin Smart case.

“It is very satisfying to see Paul Flores convicted for the murder of Kristin Smart,” Cole said. “I hope I’ve been able to give the Smart family some measure of

UMPIRE CONTINUED FROM A1

Following their goodbyes, the 2023 board of directors was installed: Rich Clayton | 2022 Chairman of the Board

| California Coast Beer Co.

• Rex Caudle | Battery Systems

• Lisa Colwell | DAOU Vineyards

• Robert Covarrubias | Cova Lending

• Isiah Gomer | Paso Robles Waste & Recycle

Melanie Greer | Stay on the Vineyard

Julie Hammer | The Wearhouse

Megan Harris | Boys & Girls Club of Mid

Central Coast

• Shonna Howenstine | City of Paso Robles

• Kristin Kearns | Coast Hills Credit Union

• Kathy Kelly | Digs Vacation Rentals

• Dixon Mann | Central Coast Lending

• Sarah Martin | HFG Coastal Insurance

Marci Miller | Radiology Associates

Kathy Nutt | Michael’s Optical

Victor Popp | La Quinta Inn & Suites

Stephanie Roberts | River Oaks Hot Springs

• Maria Madrid Sabi | Loaves & Fishes

• Jason Shorrock | Buena Vista Farms

• Debbie Thomas | Thomas Hill Organics

• Ashley Wilken | The Rice Partnership

The NCRG thanked guests and the community for being chosen as the 2022 Business of the Year. NCRG owns and operates some of

justice for Kristin.” Cole is also credited with solving three other high-profile homicides in San Luis Obispo County: The 41-yearold murder cases of Jane Antunez and Patricia Dwyer in Atascadero, and assisting with the 2018 murder investigation of Nancy Woodrum in Paso Robles. Cole credits his family, Kay and daughter

was one of those years, and their new rates were given in the fall of 2022.

The Central Section offers lower rates per game when compared to the Southern Section. When making the move to the Central Section, the CCAA asked the then commissioner if the schools within the CCAA could offer the Southern Section rates to their officials. After initially denying the request, the commissioner agreed and the schools and local officials entered a Memorandum of Understanding.

“We asked the then commissioner if we could offer the Southern Section rates and he initially said no, then changed his mind on that and allowed us to do that,” Atascadero Athletic Director Sam Derose told the Paso Robles Press. “So, we created an MOU (a memorandum of understanding) that basically said that we will pay all the units, we have 10 units (all 10 sports the schools carry), we would continue to pay all 10 units the Southern Section rates. We don’t have the ability to negotiate, you get one or the other — Central or Southern — there is no negotiation and no doubt that Southern is better.”

Audra, and his father John for all their support during the long hours he worked on cases. As for retirement plans, for right now he just plans “to relax” and spend more time with his family.

A status hearing for Flores was held on Thursday, Feb. 9. The hearing was scheduled by Superior Court Judge Jennifer O’Keefe in Decem-

The LBPUA addressed the original acceptance of the Southern Section rates in an email sent to the CCAA athletic directors on Friday, Feb. 10, stating, “When the 16 schools left for the Central Section for their own self-interest (less travel and more playoff opportunities), the coastal league schools were left in a lurch without nearby umpires. The LPBUA had a long-term relationship with those schools and in order to support them, we are forced to accept SS rates. If we didn’t support them, those schools may not have umpires, or those umpires would be quite expensive due to travel fees.”

This year, the Southern Section recently decided to restructure some of its pay scales with a goal to achieve a $35-per-hour range from the lowest to highest rates for all officials of all sports. The restructure is based on the hours of competition by each sport and is intended to be finished in three years’ time. The new rates caused some officials in other sports, such as football, to get a bump while others were frozen.

the community’s favorite restaurants between Paso Robles and Atascadero — including Jack’s Bar and Grill and Street Side Ale House, just to name a few.

Bryan Carroll and his wife, Sophia Stephens, thanked the community for choosing them to win the Beautification of the Year Award for their remodeled business, A-1 Glass on Paso Robles Street.

A live auction was held led by auctioneer Todd Ventura. Throughout the night, there was a silent auction and a live painting capturing the night and guests.

Courtney Morrow of State Farm Insurance in Templeton was honored and welcomed as the 2022 Citizen of the Year recipient. She was then followed by Brett Butterfield, who was the 2022 Roblan of the Year. Butterfield was awarded Roblan of the Month in January 2022. He is co-owner of The Ravine Waterpark in Paso Robles, where he employs about 265 people each year, as well as a local entrepreneur and community advocate.

At the end of the night, the mission of the Chamber has remained the same — promote economic vitality, empower leaders, champion businesses, foster civic engagement, and honor our history.

ber 2022 when she approved a motion by Flores’s attorney, Robert Sanger, to postpone his sentence hearing to March 10. At that December hearing, Sanger stated he was requesting more time to file a motion for a new trial and that he had new information about the case.

According to reports, Sanger was not present at

Los Padres Officials Association after the LPBUA members voted unanimously to reject the offer, according to Treasurer Brian Ashbrook.

All other officating associations accepted the proposal from the CCAA using the Southern Section rates.

Per the documents sent to the media by Derose and Mission Prep Athletic Director Kevin Hitchen, the CIF Southern Section rates came in at $92 per game. According to the LBPUA treasurer, the organization was looking to get a higher per-game average that was competitive with other local organizations like Babe Ruth, Little League, and club baseball to name a few. The negotiations began at around $120 and came down to around $105. Ashbrook also stated that he thinks the system is designed to keep official pay low.

the February status hearing and instead sent retired Santa Barbara County Judge Frank Ochoa. The defense stated the motion for a new trial was still not ready. Deputy District Attorney Chris Peuvrelle objected to any further delays.

In the end, Judge O’Keefe ruled the March 10 sentencing date would remain

there is no Central Section bylaw that limits official’s game fees.

According to documents sent to the media, the CCAA sent its final proposal on Wednesday, Feb. 8, which would have raised the per-game rate to $106 via a new mileage column and by the schools paying the officials assigner fees for the year.

“We added an extra mileage column,” Derose told the Paso Robles Press. “We added a 25-50 mile radius and we told them that we could pay the assigner fees. Well, when we met with them again, it became evident that their whole goal was to get 105 dollars a game.”

in place. Reports say that O’Keefe told attorneys that the Smart family is expected to be in court during sentencing and to notify the court immediately if any issues arise.

Flores remains in custody at the San Luis Obispo County Jail until his sentencing, which will again be held in Salinas where the trial took place.

on a Saturday and bring in officials from out of the area.

In response to the CCAA’s final email, Ashbrook responded with an email of his own, noting the extra money the schools will need to spend in order to bring in outside officials and the burden it may place on the athletes.

In a call with the Paso Robles Press on Saturday, Feb. 11, Derose addressed Ashbrook’s email, saying, “This isn’t about money, this is about principle, because if this thing falls through, then every unit for every sport across the state is going to come out and make demands and hold people hostage for what they think is right and that’s not how it works.”

Both parties were presented with the new Southern Section-approved officiating fee schedule in April. In September, the LPBUA began representing themselves separately from the

students’ science curriculum. The new curriculum will start with the 2023-2024 school year.

As of right now, the Aquatic Center is expected to be ready for occupancy by August 2024. Later in the meeting, trustees approved the Twig Science for TK through fifth-grade

The new curriculum was brought back for additional discussion after being presented at the Jan. 24 meeting. At that meeting, trustees Dorian Baker, Laurene McCoy, and Nathan Williams all voted no on approving the science curriculum.

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“They weren’t trying to compromise, they weren’t trying to reach a resolution — they were trying to convince me to take the $92 fee back to the members that already voted 34-0 to reject the fee,” Ashbrook told the Paso Robles Press. “We are a memberdriven organization, if the members would’ve voted 18-16 to accept the $92, we would have accepted the $92.” Ashbrook continued, stating that

The LBPUA offered a counter, but was told Friday that the CCAA would no longer be negotiating as Wednesday’s offer was the final one being given. At this time, the two organizations are no longer in agreement and the CCAA has begun contacting officials from neighboring counties as they look to set up an alternative schedule for the 2023 spring season where teams will play on Saturdays.

As part of the alternative schedule, local schools will also begin switching some of their home games to road games to have registered officials available. Local schools will also look to host multiple schools at a single site

Baker was the first to raise concerns on the proposed program due to questionable information regarding water usage and wanting more time to go over the curriculum. Williams and McCoy agreed on the grounds of giving trustees more time to go over the science studies.

“I feel the need to push back, not against our staff,” said

Baker, who echoed her original views on the curriculum. “But against an increasingly bureaucratic education establishment that includes the State Department of Education, the textbook publishes and sometimes teacher unions and groups like that.”

Baker added additional reasons for her voting no on the curriculum: “Under the

Paso Robles Press

guise of science, the publishers are persuading children to conclude that feeding human beings animal protein is inefficient and costly.”

Baker referred to the publishers of the Twig program that there is no mention of the water usage in relation to vegetable and recreational crops and water wasted by lack of reservoirs in place in California specifically.

Trustee Joel Peterson disagreed, saying he felt the program was costly but worth it for the students.

While the LBPUA has rejected the CCAA offer using the Southern Section rates, the organization has come to an agreement with the Coastal Valley League (Shandon, Coast Union, Maricopa, Coastal Christian, Valley Christian Academy, and Cuyama Valley) at the Southern Section rates stating, “In our discussions, we determined that these schools provided our new and junior umpires a good training opportunity to get experience for higher level games.” the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and gaining their approval.

In the end, the Twig program was approved with a 6-1 vote, Baker voting no.

The next Paso Robles Joint Unified School District board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 6 p.m.

Todd Ventura conducts the live auction during the Paso Robles and Templeton Chambers of Commerce Annual Gala and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 11 Photo by Heather Swanson