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Something Worth Reading
Round Town
Colony Buzz
Santa Margarita
The Realty Report
The Natural Alternative Business
Atascadero Chamber of Commerce
Tent City
Mud Bowl in the Mudhole: AtAscAdero wins first stAte chAMpionship in progrAM history
by CONNOR ALLEN
After a full day of rain that continued into the evening, Memorial Stadium’s field more closely resembled a marsh than a football field, but that didn’t stop the Greyhounds from running over, around, and through the San Gabriel defense.
Printery Foundation
SLO County Office of Education
Taste of Atascadero
Taste of Americana
Calendar & Events
Last Word
Martin Luther King Jr.
Directory of our Advertisers
Atascadero's mayor shares her views, ideas and goals for the new year and what the communkty can look forward to.
A look back over the stories from 2022 that made an impact on our community, all published in the Atascadero News.
On the Cover Atascadero Greyhounds After CIF Win Photo by Rick Evans
As we head into a new year, it’s a good time to reflect on all that we have accomplished and to look forward to the possibilities of the year ahead. It is a time to set new goals, make new plans, and start fresh.
This year, moreover, in the last three years, we have all been through a lot. We have faced challenges and hardships and had to adapt to a new way of living. But through it all, we have persevered and shown our resilience.
As we embark on this new journey, it is important to remember that we are not alone. We are part of a larger community, a global family, and we have the support of countless others who are also striving for a better, brighter future.
As the great philosopher, Aristotle once said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” Let us remember this as we enter the new year, and let us work together to achieve great things.
So as we enter into the new year, let us not forget the lessons that we have learned and the strength that we have gained. Let us continue to be kind and compassionate, and to strive for a better future for all. Let us be inspired by one another. Let us draw strength from the achievements of those who have come before us, and let us support and encourage one another as we pursue our own dreams and goals.
We are deeply grateful for all the support of our publication and our team over the years. We are committed to bringing you the stories of the incredible people, events, and businesses that make up our community.
This month we celebrate the Atascadero Greyhounds football team for winning the Central Section title, and the first State Championship in program history. Huge congratulations to Vic Cooper, Sam DeRose and the entire team of coaches and athletes, on your well deserved win, we are beyond proud!
Here’s to a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year for us all! Let us embrace the possibilities and opportunities that it holds, and let us support one another as we strive for a better future for all.
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of the Atascadero News Magazine.
Cheers!
Hayley and Nic
Happiest of Holidays and much love, Hayley, Nic, and family
CONTENT EDITOR
Camille DeVaul
PUBLISHER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hayley Mattson AD DESIGN Jen Rodman
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Neil Schumaker Evan Rodda Benson Moore
BUSINESS & PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Nicholas Mattson
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Dana McGraw
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HEALTH, FITNESS AND WELLNESS FEBUARY 2023
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Atascadero Fall Festival. The free fest, put on by En Fuego Events and presented by Visit Atascadero and the City of Atascadero, was back and bigger than ever. This year included more rides, more bands, and over 18,000 attendees.
year's fourth annual event. Each year, the Trot grows in popularity, with about 100 more participants; this year, the proceeds amounted to just over $60,000. Local foundation B Loved joined ECHO again to match their donations, which is included in that final total.
Atascadero residents, out-of-towners, and Central Coast residents from all over headed to the Sunken Gardens the weekend of November 18 through November 20 for the second annual
On Thanksgiving morning, November 24, families trotted for a cause in Atascadero at the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) annual Turkey Trot. Over 500 people came out and participated in this
Close to 500 families received help for Christmas at the 28th annual Day of Giving on December 10 at the Paso Robles Event Center.
The Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles organized the free event each year and was joined by Coats for Kids to give additional help from the community. Around 1,000 children were signed up for this years event.
SLO County District 1 Supervisor John Peschong presented a Certification of Recognition to both nonprofits before opening. The recognition came as a much appreciated surprise and a great way to begin the day.
One change this year was the decrease in COVID protocols. The past two years have been different for the Day of Giving with the restrictions, which did not allow volunteers to help families shop for toys.
Coats for Kids has been helping keep families warm for 35 years. Their mission has always been to distribute warm items such as coats, jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts directly to North County families, not just kids, in need.
Leftover coats were brought to the
El Camino Homeless Organization, which had locations in Paso Robles and Atascadero. About six boxes of coats each for women, men, and children were brought to the organization for distribution.
Find more information on Coats for Kids here coatsforkidsslocounty.org.
close to 10,000 people to Sunken Gardens Friday night for Atascadero's 18th annual Winter Wonderland, which took place on December 10. The event was brought to the community by The City of Atascadero.
The night had all the joy and magic of the holidays packed into one event. With a total of 75 tons of snow brought in, more than any other year, it was truly a Winter Wonderland.
The snow slide was made by Kiwanis of Atascadero, who's been building it yearly since Winter Wonderland's inception in 2001. Glacier Ice Company of SLO also had a hand in creating the slides this year.
On top of the 75 tons of snow brought in, the event also boasted plenty of other attractions for the whole family, including bounce houses, Bubble Fun 101, face painting, Euro bungee jumping, and even Joe's Little Train, brought to the event by The Elks Club of Atascadero.
A steady stream of locals brought
The evening was a huge, snow-filled success.
By Simone Smith
It’s January, a new year, a fresh start and for many, the focus shifts from parties and presents to food. The holidays are over, but there’s no denying that we love to eat, meet up with friends, and just maybe relax and have someone else do the food preparing, cooking, and cleanup. Many might think of heading to San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles or another city when hunger pangs strike or you feel like dining out, but Santa Margarita might surprise you. It may be a tiny town with one main street that can easily be bypassed on Highway 101, but by taking a slight detour onto El Camino Real (or if you’re lucky enough to be a resident), you’ll find the town actually has offerings of freshly prepared, delicious options at seven venues, three of which have exciting new changes for 2023.
The Porch Cafe, a popular local venue in the heart of downtown at 22322 El Camino Real, garnered the most attention this past year as its previous owner, Byron Smith, had been trying to sell the business. Previously, the location was the site of a favorite family-run business, Donati’s Hardware Store, but after the business' closing and selling, the building was completely renovated with the lower front portion becoming the location of the town’s first modern coffee house, Solomon’s Porch, started by Dana Cummings and named after his dog Solomon in 2004.
In the years since, Solomon’s Porch has gone through various owners, evolving into The Porch gastropub serving patrons not only coffee but also breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a full kitchen, added by Byron in 2015, enabling the cooking and serving of hot food.
In 2019 a bar was also added giving locals a spot to meet and hang out after work, while listening to live music or waiting to head to another destination. Wanting to streamline to-go orders, Byron had been working on a mobile app, which, as luck would have it, was ready to put in place just before the shutdown of the pandemic enabling the business to survive through tough times.
Coming out of the pandemic, Byron decided to sell the business, but times had been no less challenging, seeing two back-toback owners making a go of it, but the third time’s the charm. Enter Nikki and Trevor Rocco. This young, energetic couple with years of experience in the food, wine, and hospitality industry have had their eyes on the Central Coast for a few years, but timing wasn’t right for the first go-round. However, the couple recently purchased a home in the area and made the deal to buy the restaurant when the
opportunity again came around.
Nikki says they “will be getting the keys on January 15, 2023, and will open shortly after, continuing to be open a few hours each night for beer, wine, and light fare while testing recipes, developing some fun bar bites and expanding the business with the goal of serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, seven days a week, within two months.”
Trevor will be the restaurant’s head chef, and will be closer to the Central Coast suppliers that he did business with while in the L.A. area. Nikki and Trevor are both looking forward to working with and supporting the area’s farmers, wineries, craft beer makers, and community through their restaurant with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Nikki says that one of Trevor's specialties is live fire cooking and they have plans to eventually do large format wood fire-roasted meats and veggies to incorporate into sandwiches and plates.
p.m. and dinners Wednesdays through Saturdays from 4 to 9 p.m. José invites you to try out their new dinner menu, dine indoors or bring a friend to enjoy a good steak and great beer out on the newly covered and heated patio.
Just down the street, across from Santa Margarita Feed, you’ll find J’s Country Kitchen at 22412 El Camino Real. Owner José Garcia opened his restaurant for breakfast and lunch in 2019, right before covid hit, making things difficult for the new business to really get up and going, between closures, staffing, and all the issues causing many to go out of business. With a large outdoor patio and to-go orders, J’s hung in there and is now not only serving happy customers breakfast and lunch but has also added dinner service in mid-November. At J’s Country Kitchen, you are welcomed by their casual country atmosphere and friendly staff offering “freshly made comfort foods, daily specials and homemade pies”. The food is good at J’s and whether it’s a delicious omelet, tasty burger, or salad, the portions are large, so be sure to bring your appetite or a friend to share with. Breakfast is served daily from 6 a.m. to 3
Looking for a small bite of something sweet or savory, or need a batch of delicious cookies or cupcakes for a celebration or event? You can find that at the cute shop now known as the Black Pearl Baking Company, tucked into the building next to Ancient Peaks Winery at 22720 El Camino Real, Suite A. Randi Pust, aka Rosie Bruiser (her former roller derby name) recently purchased the bakery, formerly Clementine’s, and took over in mid-November offering up an array of amazingly delicious items focusing on cupcakes and cookies. Randi grew up in Santa Margarita and has extensive experience in the food service industry. Starting at 16 as a deli worker for Safeway in Santa Rosa and later attending culinary school in Napa at 22, Randi went on to work at many restaurants throughout the state, including the Iron Gate in San Francisco and the Westin in Long Beach. Her local experience includes restaurants such as Big Sky Cafe, Cafe Roma, and the Vegetable Butcher in addition to owning her own private catering company serving wineries on the Central Coast. Randi says she
loves to make vegetarian and vegan food but really can do anything. At the bakery, in addition to cookies and cakes, she also offers breakfast burritos, frittatas, cheddar biscuits, soups, and even organic dog treats and more. There’s no real hard-set menu and everything is delicious, so you’re sure to find something perfect, but things do sell out. Randi seems to have boundless energy and says she loves being at the bakery, listening to people’s ideas, and wants to do lots of community events, helping out with school, the fire department and local businesses. You can find Randi at the Black Pearl Baking Company Friday through Sunday, and she’s happy to take special orders and will be taking wedding bookings for catering from her cute vintage black and white trailer. Call Randi at (805) 709-1907, follow her FaceBook page to keep updated, or better yet, go on in and say hello.
The recent changes to fresh food options in Santa Margarita are welcomed, but we can’t thank those enough who have stayed the course through the past difficult years. Caliwala market and deli is now celebrating three years in business, helping out the community, providing fresh, organic, fair trade and sustainable healthy options. Rosalina bar and restaurant serves up delicious “barrio soul food” dinners, happy hour specials and weekend brunch. The Range, a Central Coast (and California) favorite, offers eclectic country casual ambience, serving up locally sourced, farm-to-table meals, amazing steaks, and fabulous servers. Cash or local checks only, no credit cards and be sure to make a reservation — it’s worth it. Ancient Peaks Winery Cafe is open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with options of charcuterie, amazing salads, sandwiches and burgers, using their own smoked meats with beef sourced from Santa Margarita Ranch.
As Randi says, “support your local businesses who go out of their way to help their community and please their customers.” Feeling hungry? The small businesses in Santa Margarita welcome you.
I’ve made Atascadero my home for nearly 20 years and have enjoyed being an integral part of our city’s continued growth from a bedroom community to a place where folks want to be, where nightlife is burgeoning, restaurants and shops are booming, and there’s something fun for your family to do all year long. People across the county, and California, are realizing what’s so special and unique about Atascadero: our people!
Every community has experienced a foundational transformation over the last few years as we adapted and re-adapted to ever-changing conditions. Whether it’s the evolution of our Downtown or any of the new developments across the city, while most of the feedback we get is excitement, some residents express concern that these changes might jeopardize the character of our charming town.
I hear and understand these questions. Part of what drew me to Atascadero many years ago was the relaxed pace, the quality of life, and the neighborliness of our community. But none of that has changed – we simply want our current residents and business owners to feel safe and supported as we welcome our future neighbors to enjoy Atascadero’s quality of life.
As we crafted our goals for Atascadero’s successful D-20 sales tax measure in 2020, we underwent an extensive public outreach campaign, seeking input from local residents about the main issues they wanted addressed and prioritized. Over and over, we heard these three main points: a desire for Downtown enhancement, better broadband infrastructure, and investments in public safety.
The primary goals of the Downtown Infrastructure Enhancement Project are safety for all
road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, and to support economic development and growth in the Downtown by creating a zone that slows traffic speeds, improves appearance and safety, and increases parking.
The next phase of Atascadero’s Downtown revitalization is creating a zone that is walkable, safe, conducive to large events, with ample features and parking for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. We will enhance economic development by supporting existing and future merchants with additional parking, calmed traffic patterns, safe pedestrian connections and crossings, and an overall more enjoyable Downtown experience. This project will allow for greater economic opportunities for everyone in Atascadero, better large-scale events, and more convenient avenues for “multimodal” commuters, meaning those biking and walking as well as driving. In this current phase, the city will hold a series of 10 public workshops in January and February 2023 to discuss particular amenities and design, which will then be submitted for council approval, with construction expected to begin in 2024.
The cities of Atascadero and Paso Robles were recently awarded a $200,000 grant from the California Public Utilities Commission for the North County Broadband Strategic Plan to increase broadband access, reliability, and infrastructure throughout the North County region. This groundbreaking strategic plan should be completed by March 2023, and I believe it will be a highlight of our council’s achievements in the first quarter of this year.
Increasing broadband connectivity for Atascadero residents means making it more convenient for folks to access telehealth
appointments and connect with loved ones, better bandwidth for students studying virtually, and revived investment in remote workers and entrepreneurs and those looking to relocate their home and business to our city. High-speed internet is rapidly becoming an essential in modern life, often referred to as the “fourth utility.” We heard the frustration and concern from residents who might feel ignored and overlooked by large utility companies that don’t understand the unique geographic elements of our community. Our Broadband Strategic Plan is a leap forward in the right direction to address these concerns and get Atascadero connected once and for all.
And finally, we’re working hard to support our first responders who work 24/7, 365 days per year to deliver critical emergency services to Atascadero residents through our police and fire departments. We are fully funding new public safety equipment like fire trucks and patrol cars, planning and funding a replacement for our 70-year-old Fire Station 1, and recruiting new officers and dispatchers to ensure emergency city services are efficient and available at all times. Our increased public safety wages and mental health resources for frontline personnel guarantee that we’re taking care of our officers’ and firefighters’ physical and mental needs so that they can continue serving Atascadero for years to come.
I know our residents love and appreciate Atascadero; I see it every day as I’m connecting with constituents to hear their thoughts about how to make our city greater and safer. As we experience growth and change, I’m thankful to live in, work in, and represent a city that keeps setting its sights on a brighter future. And I am incredibly grateful for all of you who contribute to our amazing community!
The Real Estate market on the Central Coast has been a roller coaster over the past couple of years. When the pandemic hit in 2020, no one was ready for what would happen.
With covid came the shift towards working from home virtually, people no longer needed to go into the office. Many started to take advantage and took the opportunity to no longer be anchored to the city where their work was located since they no longer had to go in. They could now work from anywhere.
People all over the country started moving to locations where they actually wanted to live, whether it was closer to family or moving to somewhere that made more economic sense. The Central Coast has always been a highly desirable location to live, so in turn, we saw an influx of out-of-the-area people moving here.
Also adding fuel to the fire was the fact that interest rates were at an all-time low. You could secure a loan between 2.5 percent and 3.5 percent depending on the duration and type of loan. As a result, money was practically free, and that allowed buyers a more significant amount of buying power. Great, but we did not have enough inventory of homes to satisfy the number of buyers. This, in turn, created an extraordinary seller’s market unlike anything we’ve ever seen before. Homes flew off the market in record time. Sellers barely had enough time to put their homes on the market before they were inundated with showings and offers. The average days on the market on the Central Coast was around 5 to 7 days. When buyers submitted offers, buyers were submitting above asking price and waiving contingencies. The most offers I have ever received on one of my listings was 18. This is ideal if you were a seller but completely frustrating and draining if you were a buyer.
Fast forward to May of 2022, where interest rates started to rise, continuing an upwards movement to the present, where rates are now 6 percent plus, thus reducing the buying power of a buyer. Homes remain on the market a bit longer; the average days on the market of current active homes in North San Luis Obispo County is about 60 days. Gone are the days when a home sells over a weekend. Our market is aligning itself back to 2017, 2018, and 2019; markets that we all thought were very strong for both buyers and sellers. As our market stabilizes, it remains strong. I anticipate our market will continue with this trend into 2023. It is predicted that interest rates will go down, but not down to 3 percent, predicting somewhere in the 5 percent range by the end of 2023.
Home price appreciation will slow, if not stabilize, possibly bringing prices down a little. However, it is important to remember that as of the third quarter of 2022, we have seen a 10 percent total appreciation. From
2020 to 2021, we saw a 17.4 percent appreciation, so home prices are up quite a bit overall. Since 1978, home values in San Luis Obispo County averaged a 6.1 percent annual appreciation.
As the proud owner and broker of Malik Real Estate Group in Atascadero and a resident of the North County since 1987, it is a privilege to talk about all things Real Estate both here on the Central Coast and nationwide. Each month I will discuss our current Real Estate market, trends that are happening, and ways to best equip yourself when buying or selling a home.
Next month I will discuss the Real Estate market on the Central Coast for the entire year of 2022 and have some interesting numbers and statistics to share. Continue to follow me month after month as we discuss the Real Estate market on the Central Coast.
With the start of a new year and the cold weather settling in, our bodies seem to be a little more sluggish, we’re more prone to colds and flu, and reaching your weight loss goals is becoming more difficult. What can you do to jump-start your body into health and wellness (and weight loss) for the New Year?
There’s no better way to jumpstart your way to a healthier new you than with a whole-body cleanse. From Thanksgiving through the New Year festivities, we tend to indulge in sugary foods and drinks, leaving us feeling bloated, cranky, and maybe a few pounds heavier.
Your liver, lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and skin all work to eliminate toxins that you take in from the environment as well as toxins made internally. Toxins can come from many sources: foods that have been exposed to pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers; hormones injected into livestock and poultry; chemicals and synthetic fragrances used in common household cleaners and personal care products; air pollution caused by burning of fossil fuels in cars and power plants; and
treated wastewater that flows into rivers, lakes and streams that contain unwanted pollutants. How many foods consisting of white flour, sugar and bleached oils do you consume weekly?
Think about it — Doesn’t it make sense that your liver can become tired, and your intestinal tract can become toxic over time? This can lead to constipation, fatigue, skin problems, headaches, sleep problems, digestive difficulties, and the list goes on.
If you feel a need for a structured detox and weight loss program, ask about our 10, 21, and 28-Day Standard Process Detox & Weight Loss Programs, with a proven track record of weight loss, improved mental clarity, deeper sleep, clearer skin, and better energy! These programs receive rave reviews and are truly the best way to jump-start a healthy lifestyle.
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Wishing a happy, healthy new year to all our special customers.
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The Atascadero Greyhounds are the 6-A State Champions after dismantling San Gabriel High School 41-0 in the championship game at home on Saturday night, December 10. After a full day of rain that continued into the evening, Memorial Stadium’s field more closely resembled a marsh than a football field, but that didn’t stop the Greyhounds from running over, around, and through the Matador defense.
The game was never in question as the Hounds jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and went into halftime up 35-0. As a matter of fact, Atascadero’s 41-point victory was the third-largest margin of victory among this year’s 15 State Championship games, while the Hounds are the only team not to allow a point (excluding St. John Bosco, who only played one game) in the state playoffs.
Atascadero got the scoring started with a pair of 40-yard plus touchdown runs on their first two drives by senior running back Trey Cooks as it became obvious that the Hounds were much more comfortable in the elements than the traveling Matadors. Atascadero would add two more rushing touchdowns in
the half and a defensive score on a fumble return, and the rout was on.
The Atascadero defense put a stranglehold on its opponents during its postseason run, only allowing 21 total points and registering three shutouts in five games against the best the section and the state had to offer. Perhaps even more impressive, Atascadero never allowed a single point in the second half of any of their postseason games.
AHS Athletic Director Sam DeRose is also the architect of the Hounds defense as their defensive coordinator and has been with the Hounds for much of his life. DeRose joined the Hounds for the first time in 1987 and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 1988, after which he helped win four straight CIF Titles from 1993-96. The defensive specialist then took over as the Cal Poly defensive coordinator for two years before becoming the Greyhounds head coach from 1999-2003, and then athletic director in 2004. However, despite all his success, Saturday was the first time he was able to raise a State Championship trophy over his head.
While the Atascadero defense ended the season looking like the 1985 Chicago Bears,
it opened the season, giving up more than 35 points in four straight games. It was a season of adjustments, and that is exactly what DeRose and the defense did game after game.
“We made a few changes in the scheme from the past, and there were some growing pains for athletes and staff,” DeRose told the Atascadero News.” We grew together, and the kids took it and ran, doing a phenomenal job. I believe they kept getting better and better each week; confidence elevated, performance and assignment execution. They were scrappy and aggressive and, most importantly, became smart football players.”
Atascadero gave up 20 or more points in their final six regular season games before allowing 21 total in the final five games of the year. However, what made the Hounds’ defense so special this season was its ability to adapt on the fly, especially at halftime. By the end of the season, the Atascadero defense was swimming in confidence, and it showed before the game Saturday night as the Hounds ditched their ceremonial walk to the goalposts in favor of a run due to the pure excitement coursing through their veins.
“It was great winning a sectional title, it was very special, and I was satisfied. I did not want anything to diminish that accomplishment. The kids wanted to complete the run, which was inspiring.” DeRose explained to The Atascadero News. “This was first for [head coach] Vic [Cooper] and I. We had many on the staff who had never gotten to the CIF final, let alone a state playoff. It was gratifying to see.”
Despite the downpour of rain, the Greyhound faithful still came out and supported their football team and were treated to a piece of history by the night’s end. Atascadero is one of only a handful of teams in the state that got to end their season with a win and send off its 18 seniors with a smile and a nice piece of jewelry. The Hounds will say goodbye to some of their top performers like Cooks, who ran for over 1,700 yards and scored 18 touchdowns; Diego Real, the top tackler on the team with 123; and Celtin Vert, who was instrumental in controlling opposing offensive lines.
The Hounds will need to fill some holes if they want to repeat as champions next season but also return some key players starting with their quarterback Kane Cooks and their top receiver and defensive back, Mason Degnan.
Joining the Greyhounds as CIF State Champions this year are St. John Bosco (Open Division, defeated Serra 45-0), Lincoln (1-AA, defeated De Le Salle 33-28), Liberty (1-A, defeated Pittsburg 48-20), Mater Dei (2-AA, defeated McClymonds 26-18), Granite Hills (2-A, defeated San Ramon Valley 31-24), Grant (3-AA, defeated San Jacinto 36-34), Laguna Hills (3-A, defeated Bellermine College Prep 28-27), Escalon (4-AA, defeated Northwood 28-7), San Marin (4-A, defeated Grenada Hills 32-8), Hughson (5-AA, defeated Muir 9-6), Orland (5-A, defeated Shafter 20-7), Classical Academy (6-AA, defeated Santa Teresa 7-0), Pinole Valley (7-AA, defeated Mendota 34-21) and Lincoln (7-A, defeated Crenshaw 54-6).
Published January 6: Close to 300 runners and walkers showed up for the 4th annual Running Chicken 10k and 5k to celebrate the lives of "Bitti" and Brynn Frace on Sunday, January 2. The Chicken Run returned to Lake Santa Margarita after a virtual run last year.
Published January 20: On Saturday, January 15, locals and tourists headed to Atascadero's Sunken Gardens to celebrate their love of tamales. Around 10,000 people attended the 6th Annual Tamale Festival, which has become an Atascadero staple. Not even on-and-off-rain could affect the turnout.
Published January 20: Now, after a quarter-century, the cafe's owners are embarking on a new Odyssey in their lives, turning the restaurant over to long-time Odyssey chef Carmelo and his wife, Anna Rodriguez.
Published January 20: Almost four months after losing Ty Lewis as Chief of Police to his new position as City Manager, Paso Robles Police Department (PRPD) has a new Chief in town — Damian Nord.
Published January 27: On December 7, 2020, the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) opened its first shelter in Paso Robles after operating in Atascadero for over twenty years.
Located in the former Motel 6 at 1134 Black Oak Drive, they successfully made it through their first full year on December 7, 2021, even through all the challenges of COVID.
to be brought to people's attention, chances are Bill Pluma was involved. At the age of 81, Bill passed away at his home on Tuesday, December 21, 2021, in Paso Robles.
Published February 10: Every year, father figures and the young ladies in their lives look forward to dressing up and attending the annual Father and Daughter Dances hosted by the City of Atascadero and the Main Street Dance Company in Templeton.
Published February 10: The City approved the parklet program as a way for restaurants to remain open and comply with tight COVID pandemic restrictions on indoor dining. During its peak, more than 20 parklets were installed in place of roughly 60 parking spots.
28. Starting March 12, masks will no longer be required in school and child care facilities. However, they are still strongly recommended.
Published February 4: On Sunday, January 30, Santa Margarita native and WWII veteran Harold Lowe passed away at 102 years old. He has been laid to rest at Reis Mortuary, and a graveside service was held at Los Osos Valley Memorial Park in February.
Published February 4: If there was a cause in Paso Robles that needed volunteers or awareness
Published February 17: The annual Sweet Art Luncheon hosted by Studios on the Park returned to Paso Robles this year after taking a hiatus due to the pandemic. This time to celebrate adventurers, founding board members, and champions of the arts, Liz and Newlin Hastings.
Published March 3: California, Oregon, and Washington announced the end of mask mandates for students in a joint statement on Monday, February
Published March 3: After over two years in the making, an archway, created and designed by local artist Dale Evers, was installed over Norma's Alley on Pine and 12th Street on Tuesday, February 22.
Published March 10: Lee Swam (aka the Daffodil Man) was beloved not only in the city of Atascadero but all over the North County. From planting thousands of daffodils throughout Atascadero to creating traditions that we still experience today, Swam left amazing memories in his wake.
Published March 10: This year celebrates Atascadero's 100th year of Fire and Emergency Services in our beautiful city. The Fire Department started out small in 1922 but has only grown in equipment, facilities, and staff since then. And this year, we're celebrating.
Paso Robles Police Department Introduces New Police ChiefPublished March 24: On Saturday, March 5, as a lastsecond replacement, Atascadero amateur boxer JJ Subia jumped in the car with his dad and headed to Madera to participate in the final round of the Madera Throwdown.
Published April 7: It's been 22 years since Atascadero's Fine Arts Academy (FAA) came into being. And though COVID-19 stopped its 20-year celebration and reunion in 2020, staff, past students, and the school's founders are remedying that this year.
headed out to Atascadero Bible Church to participate in the 11th Annual Empty Bowls luncheon, which benefits the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) and all they do for the North County.
Published May 12: Two San Luis Obispo County law enforcement officers will be honored at the annual San Luis Obispo County’s Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremony.
Published May 12: Records were broken when the Templeton High School’s (THS) girls swim team took home the CIF Central Section Division 2 championship over the last weekend.
Published May 19: The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Department held its inaugural Sheriff's Rodeo on Saturday, May 14, and the community was ready for it. More than 4,000 people were in attendance.
enthusiasts came out in full force to Santa Margarita this Memorial weekend for the Best of the West Antique Equipment Show. Proceeds from the event support the Paso Robles Annual Pioneer Day celebrations.
Published June 2: More than 300 people showed up for the return of the Paso Robles District Cemetery's Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 30. The event honors and remembers the men and women who lost their lives in service to our country.
Published May 26: Community members and Atascadero business owners gathered together on the evening of Saturday, May 21, for the 99th Annual Atascadero Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala where Kevin Campion was named Citizen of the Year.
Published June 9: On Thursday, June 2, family and friends of the students in Atascadero High School's (AHS) graduating Class of 2022 filled the bleachers at Memorial Stadium.
Published April 28: On Saturday, April 2, Tonya Pennington, a school bus driver for the Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD), averted a potential disaster when her bus started having mechanical failures due to an electrical fire.
Published May 5: On Thursday, April 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., community members
Published May 12: After a year away, the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Gala at Rava Wines in person on May 7 honoring both Roblans of the year Pat Bland as the 2020 Roblan and Brian Thorndyke as the 2021.
Published May 26: Friends and families headed out to Atascadero Lake Park on Saturday, May 21, for the fifth annual Lake Fest. Friends of Atascadero Lake and THE LINK Family Resource Center teamed up to bring the community not one but two events, also incorporating Children's Day at the Park with Lake Fest. The events were co-sponsored by the City of Atascadero.
Published June 2: American history and equipment
Published June 9: Lighthouse Atascadero held its eighth annual Lighthouse Run on the morning of Saturday, June 4. After a two-year break, the 5K was held at the Santa Margarita Ranch Educational Center from 8 to 11 a.m.
Published June 16: On a more than toasty day, Paso Robles High School (PRHS) hosted its 126th graduation for the Class of 2022 on Friday, June 10, at War Memorial Stadium.
Published June 16: The Class of 2022 from Templeton High School officially graduated and closed their high school chapter on Thursday, June 9.
Nelson, CEO of Cinema Square, LLC, and the theater’s owner, announced on Thursday, June 23.
Published July 7: Independence Day was filled with red, white, and blue from the northern part of the county all the way to the coast.
Published July 28: Two young women dominated this year’s JB Dewar Tractor Restoration competition at the California Mid-State Fair.
Published June 16: Bella Otter made her hometown of Atascadero proud when she brought home two gold medals after competing in the Pan American Championships in Nova Scotia, Canada, at the beginning of the month. The Championships took place from May 31 thru June 5.
Published June 23: After just over a year after breaking ground on the building, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast (CGCMCC) celebrated the grand opening of the Tom Maas Clubhouse in Paso Robles.
Published June 30: The movie theater in the Colony Square shopping center will have a new operator effective immediately. Sanborn Theatres, the local family cinema business, will replace Galaxy Theatre as operator after 10 years, Jeff
Published July 21: Since the summer of 2000, the All Comers Track Meet has been a family favorite in Atascadero. This year the event started on Wednesday, July 13, with the following meet on Wednesday, July 20, and concluding with its final meet on Wednesday, July 27. The All Comers track meet is held at Atascadero Memorial Stadium at Atascadero High School.
Published July 21: A new court has been crowned at the California Mid-State Fair. Like in 2021, the Miss California Mid-State Fair [CMSF] Pageant was held on Wednesday, July 20, the opening night of the fair.
Published July 28: Historically, downtown Atascadero, specifically the Traffic Way area, used to be a well-known Arts District. The Equality Mural Project is working hard to bring art back into our thriving community.
Winemaker’s
Published August 18: The Paso Robles Rotary Club held their community favorite Winemaker’s Cookoff, which benefits their scholarship program for Paso Robles High School graduates.
Published September 1: Seventeen U.S. veterans took flight on Saturday, August 27, in the “Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber,” a restored World War II C-47 aircraft, for an Honor Flight around the Central Coast.
Published September 1: Born on September 2, 1922, World War II veteran Charles "Cap" Capper will celebrate his 100th birthday.
Published September 8: On Friday, September 2, the aviation community lost one of its own when Sherman Smoot died in a plane accident in Kern County. Smoot was piloting his Yakovlev Yak-11, named “Czech Mate,” in preparation for the upcoming Reno Air Races, held yearly in September.
Published September 1: Children's House Montessori School has been a staple in education in Atascadero for the last 42 years. Even though the school officially missed its 40-year anniversary in 2020 due to COVID, the school has thrived through the last two years and stayed open to the community.
Published September 15: Three of Atascadero's residents have been awarded the roles of Grand Marshal, King, and Queen of Colony Days by the Atascadero Colony Days Committee. Ann Little will act as Grand Marshal, while Dan and Ramona Phillips will be crowned the King and Queen.
Published September 22: Dancing with our Stars (DWOS) was back and bigger than ever this year. The local dance charity fundraiser took place at the Atascadero Lake Pavillion over the course of four nights.
Local Named First Creston Man of the Year at Creston Classic Rodeo
Published September 22: A special member of the Creston Classic Rodeo family was recognized the weekend of, Sept. 15-18, at the 26th Annual Creston Classic Rodeo (CCR). Cole McKenney was honored as the first Creston Man of the Year.
Published September 22: The Bearcat community unexpectedly lost Jim Wiemann on Thursday, August 4, at the age of 56, leaving a hole in the Paso Robles sports community, where he was the go-to sports announcer and broadcaster.
Published October 20: After 26 years of investigation, Paul Flores has been found guilty of the first-degree murder of Kristin Smart. The verdict came on Tuesday, October 18, right before noon when Paul’s jury reached a decision after just over 20 hours of deliberation.
many people showed up that more chairs needed to be added to the tables.
Published November 24: Park Cinemas celebrates 25 years in business this December, and they are ready to celebrate the milestone with the community.
Published December 1: On Friday, November 25, in front of a packed house at Memorial Stadium, the Atascadero Greyhounds football team was crowned CIF Central Section Division 5 champions, defeating Pioneer Valley 27-13.
Published October 6: On Saturday, October 1, Atascadero residents and spectators from all over the county lined El Camino Real to watch and cheer on the 48th Colony Days Parade. The parade started at 10 a.m., with Colony Days festivities carrying on until 3 p.m. in and around Sunken Gardens.
Published October 20: The Estrella Warbirds Museum celebrated 30 years of preserving and hosting aviation history on Saturday, October 15. The celebration honored the museum’s beginnings, remembered late aviator Sherman Smoot, and kicked off funding for the museum's proposed western expansion.
Published November 10: Fans of the classical composer Ignacy Jan Paderewski (known for stopping in Paso Robles while on tour) headed out to experience the three-day Paderewski Festival dedicated to the famous musician.
Published November 24: On Friday, November 25, the Hidden Springs Christmas Tree Farm in Atascadero will open for its 60th season with seven varieties of trees to choose from, hot cider, and plenty of opportunities to make memories.
Published November 24: Coats for Kids has been helping keep families warm for 35 years, and after two years of modified giving, they will be joining the Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles for the “Day of Giving” on Saturday, December 10.
Published December 8: San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors approved the adoption of a new Paso Basin Planting Ordinance. The new ordinance was greatly opposed by the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau, SLO County Cattleman’s Association, Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, and SLO County Planning Commission, among others.
Published December 8: A cold, wet, and pitch-dark night didn’t dampen festivities too much on Friday, December 2, as the City of Atascadero and Chamber of Commerce once again lit up the Sunken Gardens and the iconic City Hall for Christmas.
Published October 13: The day Paso Roblans have been waiting for finally came, the 92nd Annual Paso Robles Pioneer Day and Parade.
Published November 17: Saturday, November 12, Atascadero High School alumni, sports alums, members of the Atascadero Greyhound Foundation, and former Greyhound Foundation Athletic Hall of Fame inductees gathered at the Pavilion on the Lake to celebrate the 2022 inductees into the Hall of Fame. Approximately 140 people attended the ceremony, and so
Published November 24: The Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center and Templeton Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce Brett Butterfield as the 2022 Roblan of the Year.
Published December 8: Rain could not keep the Christmas spirit away Saturday, December 3, as the community lined the streets to watch the 61st Annual Christmas Lights Parade in Paso Robles.
Welcome, 2023. We have an exciting year ahead of us. It’s our 100th anniversary here at the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce and we’re pulling out all the stops. There’s no better way to celebrate than with new programs to help our local business community thrive in the new year. The team and I have worked hard and we’re in the process of rolling out three new programs to benefit you.
First is the Get Your Business Online! Program; this initiative supports assisting small businesses to modernize the way they conduct business in 2023 and beyond. The trend of online shopping and booking has only grown, and COVID-19 only accelerated this trend. Now, it’s even more essential that local shops get online to meet the new way customers are shopping and booking. This program seeks to bridge the gap between stores and the digital space by offering in-person training, expert guidance, and creative assistance online.
The second program we’re working on addresses one of the top challenges faced by our region’s businesses — workforce
development. The COVID-19 Pandemic brought significant and unforeseen impacts to the local business community. That’s why immediately after the economic shutdown in 2020, our Chamber team began partnering with local employers regarding funding assistance and business retention solutions. Now, we’ve agreed to serve as the Contract Lead on behalf of the San Luis Obispo County Chambers of Commerce for our Workforce Development Program to engage our business community with workforce development programs to keep, create, and promote local jobs.
Last but not least is our Jr. CEO Program, a five-week digital business education course that teaches children the basics of starting their own company. It includes a fall and spring program around scenarios like opening a hot chocolate stand or an orange juice stand. This program is great for sixth-graders and above and covers essential concepts like business fundamentals, cost models, safety/ food prep, marketing, customer service, and money management.
The Chamber team and I want to thank you for your support over the years. Every day that we can work to help local businesses is another day well spent. Thank you for an amazing 100 years — let’s keep this going strong for another 100.
A-1 Pest Management a-1-pest-management.business.site
Ametza Clothing Shopametza.com
Beacon of Hope beaconofhopefacility.com
Better Business Bureau of the Tri-Counties BBB.org
Bramble Pie bramblepiecompany.com
Delta Bioproducts
Independent Bemer Distributor IBD#US79969 nancyspitzer.bemergroup.com
Ernest Grace Enterprise
Ice Cream Shop La Michoacana facebook.com/icecreamshoplamichoacana/
Martinez Restaurant facebook.com/martinezrestaurant14/
Maxine Rodriguez talkeasthills.com
Planet Fitness planetfitness.com
Tera Brandolino
WCP Property Management & Real Estate wcjpm.com
Note: All Chamber Members were asked to participate in this Guide by submitting entries.
The Atascadero Printery Foundation hosted its annual Founders Reception on November 13 at the Community Church of Atascadero. The Printery Foundation board members and supporters of the performing arts gathered for a silent auction, live performances, and an update on the Foundation's fundraising efforts throughout 2022.
Performances from the Atascadero Printery Foundation's inaugural Talent Show winners, Class Act Dance, singer/songwriter Shea Angles, pianist Julz Muya, and Kobe Wescom (who performed a live monologue from Shakespeare).
"We had some great live performances and good music," said Atascadero Printery Foundation President Karen McNamara.
After his monologue, Wescom went on to give a speech about how the arts have affected his life and how much the North County needs a usable facility this side of the Cuesta Grade.
"We don't have any public community performance centers in northern San Luis Obispo County," added McNamara.
On top of the performances and auction, the board gave an annual update for the attendees of the reception, themed It's Time.
"During the event, we gave an update on where we are at with [this year's] fundraising. At the reception, we accepted a check from the Atascadero Performing Arts Center Committee for $13,700, which completed the match of the gift that we were pledged last year at the
Founder's Reception of $100,000," McNamara explained.
The match was raised in a year, and at the reception, they officially received the $100,000 donation from Jennifer and Lucas Pierce.
"Now we have $200,000 in our red tag fund. That's just the red tag removal fund. That's not what our general fund is," McNamara said. "That tells me that the community is behind our project. We've raised total this year of at least $300,000."
The Foundation has been working toward the goal of getting the red tag off the Printery building and allowing people inside. McNamara also stated that they shared the sustainability of getting the Printery functioning and open to the public in their business plan.
"Our business plan looks very good for the sustainability of the project because of the many uses. So we drive that home a bit," she added.
At the reception, at least $20,000 additional funds were raised for the Printery's general fund.
"It was just a wonderful event. Everything turned out beautifully," McNamara said. "We're well over $500,000 that we've received from the community [in total]. The $200,000 is just our red tag campaign."
McNamara explained that they have big plans ahead for 2023 and welcome all community involvement.
To learn more about The Atascadero Printery Foundation, volunteer, or donate, visit atascaderoprintery.org.
Happy New Year! Do you have what it takes to serve in the public sector? If so, the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education may be able to help. Grants, scholarships, and partnerships with local university preparation programs are available. January’s article reflects on the past, a call to service, and assistance in becoming a public sector employee. The private and public employment sectors have benefits and drawbacks. I encourage anyone considering the public sector to weigh the advantages, priorities, and preferences to make an informed choice, as I did more than 35 years ago.
As I completed my undergraduate education at the University of California, San Diego, my career path suddenly came to a screeching and confusing halt. While applying for graduate school to become a clinical psychologist, I realized this was not my path. As part of the graduate school application process, I had been volunteering at a group home for children in San Diego for a year. However, I did not see myself serving the community as a psychologist. During the next few weeks, I spoke with family and friends about my uncertainty. My father, an engineer, encouraged me to follow the emerging boom in high-tech, grandma wanted me to become a priest, and the rest of my family or friends said to pursue something I enjoyed. Finally, I phoned a former mathematics teacher from my high school with whom I had maintained contact throughout college.
Brother Jerome Gorg, a Marianist who dedicated his life to service, had encouraged me to work in the math lab at my high school to tutor other students for credit and then as a volunteer. He often quoted Ben Franklin, “Tell me, and I forget. Teach me, and I remember. Involve me, and I learn.” Brother Jerry involved me in mathematics and teaching. He had a Socratic way of responding to a question with another question designed to make one think. During our phone conversation, he reminded me of my service and asked why I continued volunteering after completing my required elective time. I responded that I enjoyed assisting others and grew in my passion for learning as a tutor. Brother Jerry said, “I think you have an answer to your question.”
In dedicating my career to public service, I have worked as a custodian, teaching assistant, classroom teacher, college instructor, and administrator. The first ten years of my teaching career were in service to English language learners and students living in poverty. The past twenty-five has
been as an administrator dedicated to promoting high-quality programs. Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Public service is a place to promote social justice for a democratic society. It is the responsibility of all concerned about our country to encourage highly qualified and dedicated public sector employees. The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education has written and received several grants offering scholarships, program subsidies, and tuition reimbursements that can address the recruitment of public sector employees.
California continues to experience employee shortages across the state because of the economy, retiring baby boomers, and a reduction in avenues for training. Business leaders in private industry, the public sector, and local small businesses are experiencing a shortage of employees. Surveys conducted by organizations such as Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and the Society the Human Resource Management (SHRM), report that some sectors have nearly 48 percent of current employees considering leaving for better work opportunities. Will the tight labor market continue in 2023, and how can business leaders address employment challenges? Research indicates that employees are empowered to go where they feel valued, directly impact positive workplace outcomes, and have opportunities to improve skills.
The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education works with all districts, charters, and childcare centers to scholarship pre-apprentices, apprentices, interns, substitutes, and current employees interested in obtaining additional training. Individuals interested in public sector employment found in our local school districts, such as administration, classroom service, fiscal services, human resources, IT, maintenance and operations, support services, and transportation, should consider the support we can provide. Please contact your local school district or the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education for additional information. Our tax-payer-funded system controls whom we train and employ in our organizations. We should prioritize the value of highly qualified and locally trained employees. We must now encourage intelligent young people to consider public-sector employment. Our secondary and post-secondary education leadership should promote expanding capacity and recruiting highly qualified public sector employees. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.
January — the beginning of a new year and on an average, known to be the coldest month of the year. When I think about all the rich meals, all the holiday parties, and all the decadent desserts, I’m ready for a simple, warm bowl of soup.
Just picture yourself sitting by a cozy fire, sipping a delicious soup, served with a slice of fresh bread, and a glass of your favorite wine.
I love to make soups, so I watch for new recipes or scan through my cookbook collection in search of a new idea. I did just that for this January issue.
Ingredients
4 quarts chicken broth
2 pounds dried split peas
1 cup chopped ham
Directions
½ cup chopped onion1/2 cup chopped celery
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker. Stir well to combine. Cover; cook on low 8 to 10 hours or on high 4 to 6 hours; or until peas are soft. Mix with hand mixer or hand blender on low speed until smooth. Serves 8
Ingredients
1 can Anderson potato soup
1 can cream of asparagus soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can king crab or fresh crab
1/3 package frozen chopped spinach 2 green onions, chopped ½ cup grated Cheddar cheese
Dash cayenne ½ cup white wine
Directions Mix all ingredients together and heat.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large Vidalia onions, coarsely chopped
1 package (10 ounces cremini mushrooms
1 package (10 ounces) button mushrooms
Directions
Kosher salt and black pepper
2 tablespoons butter 6 to 10 cloves garlic, peeled and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons sherry 4 cups beef broth
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and mushrooms and season well with salt and pepper. Cook vegetables, stirring often, until cooked down and fragrant, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add butter and garlic and cook gently another 1 to 2 minutes. Add sherry to pan and stir to scrape up any bits stuck to bottom. Transfer sherry and vegetables into a slow cooker and add broth. Cover and cook on low 5 to 6 hours or on high 3 to 4 hours. Serves 4-6 Serves 4-6
Ingredients
4 medium leeks (white portion only), chopped ½ cup minced chives
½ cup butter
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared
Directions
with milk and butter)
2 tablespoons minced fresh savory or 2 teaspoons dried savory 3 cups half-and-half cream
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large saucepan, saute leeks and chives in butter until tender. Add the broth, potatoes and savory; bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes. Cool slightly. Process in batches in a blender or food processor until smooth; return to pan. Stir in cream, salt and pepper; heat through. Serves 8-10
Ingredients
8 medium onions, thinly sliced 1/3 cup butter
2 tablespoons allpurpose flour 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper
Directions
8 cups chicken broth 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream ½ cup milk
12 slices french bread (1-inch thick), toasted 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
In a large kettle or Dutch oven, saute onions in butter until tender. Sprinkle with flour, salt and pepper; cook and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add broth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered, for 30 minutes. Combine sour cream and milk. Stir into soup; heat through (do not boil). Place a slice of toasted bread in each soup bowl; ladle soup over bread. Sprinkle with cheese. Serves 12
Fix a cup of soup and enjoy the month of January. Cheers!
EAST SIDE OF AVILA BEACH PIER
11:30-2pm
The 11th annual Polar Bear Plunge is a celebration of fitness, nature, camaraderie and a New Year! Leave your wet suit at home and come with friends and family to the Avila Beach Pier. Bring costumes, floaties, etc, but no dogs, please. Commemorative shirts are available for purchase, and proceeds benefit the 40 Prado homeless shelter. For more info, go to avilabeachpolarbearplunge.com.
Starting at 8am, take a walk along the beach at low tide to celebrate the New Year and to see what ocean curiosities show up. Meet at the Morro Rock parking lot restrooms, dress for the weather. Strollers and wheelchairs encouraged, but should have big tires for sand. Easy, and fun for families.
CAYUCOS BEACH 12pm
Each year, thousands of brave individuals and teams start the new year with a dip into the Pacific Ocean in Cayucos. Cayucos Chamber of Commerce puts on the family-friendly event, in partnership with multiple county agencies. Commemorative t-shirts (designed by local Cayucos elementary school students) and participant certificates will be available. Proceeds of shirt sales cover event costs and local Cayucos Chamber flagship events.
6500 PALMA AVE., DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO & THE SUNKEN GARDENS 11am-7pm
Enjoy a variety of tamales, including gourmet, traditional or sweet, from vendors all over California. While indulging in tamales, there will be entertainment from Emcee Francisco Ramirez along with Medina Light Show Designs and over 50 vendors displaying merchandise and crafts, as wells as adult beverages. There will also be a tamale eating contest and Chihuahua & Pet Costume Contest.
PISMO BEACH
Time Tentative
Men and Women’s professional surfing contest where young California athletes are able to compete at the most important and recognizable events in their sport without having to leave the state or travel great distances. This includes the ability to earn valuable WSL Qualifying Series points, compete against international athletes, and gain valuable competition experience.
PAVILION ON THE LAKE, ATASCADERO 6:30-9:30pm
(ages 12 and under) Bring your special girl to the Father-Daughter Dance at the Pavilion on the Lake for a semiformal evening of music, dancing, refreshments, & more! A professional photographer will be on-site with affordable picture packages.
(ages 12 and over) Bring your special girl to the Father-Daughter Dance at the Pavilion on the Lake for a semi-formal evening of music, dancing, refreshments, & more! A professional photographer will be on-site with affordable picture packages.
Paso Robles
11TH & SPRING, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446
9am - 11am
Welcome the 2023 Board of Directors and thank the 2022 outgoing Board members. They will also honor the Roblan of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Beautification Award recipient, and Business of the Year, as they share the Chamber's accomplishments from 2022 and look forward to the year ahead.
Atascadero
6505 EL CAMINO REAL, ATASCADERO, CA 93422
3pm - 6pm
Templeton
CROCKER ST & 6TH ST, TEMPLETON, CA 93465
9am - 12:30pm
Paso Robles: County Farm & Craft Market
11TH & SPRING, PASO ROBLES 9am - 1pm
6555 Capistrano • (805) 461-6161
Register online at slolibrary.org
Hours:
• Tuesday 10-6
• Wednesday 10-6
• Thursday 9-5
• Friday 10-5
• Saturday 9-5
Thursday Jan. 5th & 19th from 3 to 4:30 p.m.Come read stories to Jack the dog!
Toddler Storytime
Every Friday at 10:30 a.m.- Join Ms. Sally in the library and read books, sing songs, and have fun!
Every Friday at 10:30 a.m.- Join Ms. Sally in the library and read books, sing songs, and have fun!
Every Friday at 10 a.m.- Bring your device in and Donna will do her best to answer any questions you have.
January 4th from 10 - 11:30 a.m. - Get connected with Primary care, recovery, clothing, food, Medicare, shelter, mental health, showers, health insurance, and more.
Teen Scene
Friday Jan. 13th & 27th from 2-3:30 p.m. Activities for teens at the library, including Legos, board games, movies, and more! Ages 10-17
Lego Club
Saturday Jan. 28th from 2 to 3 p.m. Create and build with Legos at the Library! For kids age 5-12
Creston
6290 Adams St. • (805) 237-3010
Santa Margarita Library
9630 Murphy Ave. • (805) 438-5622
San Miguel Library
254 13th St. • (805) 467-3224
Shandon Library
195 N 2nd St. • (805) 237-3009
Providing support, education and hope 1051 Las Tablas Road, Templeton • (805) 238-4411 • Cancer Support Helpline • (888) 793-9355, 6 a.m.- 6 p.m. PST.
• Visit: cscslo.org for more info Special Programs Email programs@cscslo.org for Zoom links and more info
• Every Wednesday
• Tai Chi Chih | Virtual via Zoom• 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
• Mindfulness Hour | Virtual via Zoom • 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month
• Grief Support Group | Virtual via Zoom • 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
• 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month
• Adv. Cancer Support Group | Virtual
• 10:00 a.m - 11:00 a.m.
• 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month
• Caregiver Support Group | In Person • 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
• 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month
• Cancer Patient Support Group | In Person • 11:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m.
• 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month
• Grief Support Group (Templeton) | Virtual via Zoom • 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Explore Cancer Support Community’s Virtual Home:
• cancersupportcommunity.org/virtual-programs
Atascadero Bible Church Library, 6225 Atascadero Ave, Atascadero
• 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month
• 6-8pm
Meet in the Pavilion parking lot 9315 Pismo Ave Atascadero
• 1st Saturday of each month 11:00 am
• Bring your walking poles if you have them Contact for more info: Vic Breault vjbreault@gmail.com
• (951) 663-9841
Atascadero Chamber of Commerce
atascaderochamber.org • (805) 466-2044
6907 El Camino Real, Suite A, Atascadero, CA 93422
Templeton Chamber of Commerce templetonchamber.com • (805) 434-1789
321 S. Main Street #C, Templeton, CA 93465
• Atascadero #14927 • 2rd Thursday of each month, 6:00 p.m., Outlaws Bar & Grill, 9850 E. Front Rd.
• Atascadero • Meeting • every Wednesday, 12 p.m. at Springhill Suites by Marriott, 900 El Camino Real
• Atascadero • 7848 Pismo Ave. • 805-610-7229
• Meeting • In person or Zoom every Thursday, 7:00 a.m.
Atascadero #2814 • 9555 Morro Rd., • 805-466-3305
• Meeting • first Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
• Atascadero Lodge 2733 • 1516 El Camino Real • 805-466-3557
• Lodge Meeting — second and fourth Thursdays
Atascadero Club 2385 • 5035 Palma Ave. Atascadero
• Meeting — Every 2nd, 4th Wednesday at 7 p.m. Santa Margarita Club 2418 • 9610 Murphy St.
• Meeting — 2nd, 4th Monday, 7:30 p.m. Shandon Valley Club • (630) 571-5466
• Meeting — Call ahead for meeting times Templeton Club 2427 • 601 Main St.
• Meeting — 1st and 3rd Thursday, 7 p.m.
• Atascadero 2067 • 8507 El Camino Real • 805-466-5121 Visit mooseintl.org for more information
• Republican Headquarters - 7357 El Camino Real, Meetings • 4th Tuesday 11:00 am
• visit atascaderorepublicanwomenfederated.com
first and third Tuesday, Closed Session 6pm, Open/Regular Session 7 p.m
• first and third Tuesday, 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 6500 Palma Avenue
• second and fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 6500 Palma Avenue
Visit atascadero.org for virtual & up to date meeting info. General information: City Hall M-F, 8:30 a.m. to 5p.m. (805) 461-5000
In 1963 on August 28, Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. In the speech, Dr. King drew directly on the promises made in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution to call for civil rights and an end to racism.
“When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
King’s most important work applied America’s founding ideals to the cause of civil rights. The last best hope for true racial progress, King realized, was solidarity: For people to see and treat one another as equals, they had to feel the tugs of a bond far stronger than either race or politics, and for King, that bond was America.
After all, there are two words in the phrase “civil rights,” and King grasped that both are crucial. Civil rights are about the fair and equal participation of all citizens in the American community. For those rights to have any power, the bonds of that community must be close-knit and resilient.
“I criticize America because I love her,” King said in a speech about the Vietnam War, “and because I want to see her to stand as the moral example of the world.”
All Americans alike can learn from King’s example, “In the United States of America, every citizen should have the opportunity to build a better and brighter future. United as one American family, we will not rest, and we will never be satisfied until the promise of this great nation is accessible to each American in each new generation.”
The premise and promise of King’s dream is that we don’t need to replace or transform our nation’s shared ideals to make our country a better place.
We simply need to live up to them.
On April 3, 1968, the eve of his assassination, King gave his “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” address at the Bishop Charles Mason Temple in Memphis, Tenn. In standing with the Memphis sanitation workers on strike, Dr. King struck a familiar chord in tying the striking workers’ economic rights to their natural human rights and their civil rights, as promised in the founding documents.
“But somewhere, I read of the freedom of assembly. Somewhere I read of the freedom of speech. Somewhere I read of the freedom of
press. Somewhere I read that the greatness of America is the right to protest for right. And so, just as I say, we aren’t going to let any dogs or water hoses turn us around; we aren’t going to let any injunction turn us around. We are going on. We need all of you.”
In that same speech, he went on to say, “Because if I had sneezed, I wouldn’t have been around here in 1960, when students all over the South started sitting in at lunch counters. And I knew that as they were sitting in, they were really standing up for the best in the American dream and taking the whole nation back to those great wells of democracy, which were dug deep by the founding fathers in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.”
King left a legacy of hope and inspiration that continues on today; his love and admiration of the founding fathers, the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution were unwavering and gave him hope of what could be and what was to come.
Monday, January 16, will mark America’s 38th celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy. Honoring King with the sacred status of a federal holiday, of which there are only ten, none other named for a 20th-century figure, is a testament to the unifying power of his legacy.
Published January 6: Close to 300 runners and walkers showed up for the 4th annual Running Chicken 10k and 5k to celebrate the lives of "Bitti" and Brynn Frace on Sunday, January 2. The Chicken Run returned to Lake Santa Margarita after a virtual run last year.
Published January 20: On Saturday, January 15, locals and tourists headed to Atascadero's Sunken Gardens to celebrate their love of tamales. Around 10,000 people attended the 6th Annual Tamale Festival, which has become an Atascadero staple. Not even on-and-off-rain could affect the turnout.
Published January 20: Now, after a quarter-century, the cafe's owners are embarking on a new Odyssey in their lives, turning the restaurant over to long-time Odyssey chef Carmelo and his wife, Anna Rodriguez.
Published January 20: Almost four months after losing Ty Lewis as Chief of Police to his new position as City Manager, Paso Robles Police Department (PRPD) has a new Chief in town — Damian Nord.
Published January 27: On December 7, 2020, the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) opened its first shelter in Paso Robles after operating in Atascadero for over twenty years.
Located in the former Motel 6 at 1134 Black Oak Drive, they successfully made it through their first full year on December 7, 2021, even through all the challenges of COVID.
to be brought to people's attention, chances are Bill Pluma was involved. At the age of 81, Bill passed away at his home on Tuesday, December 21, 2021, in Paso Robles.
Published February 10: Every year, father figures and the young ladies in their lives look forward to dressing up and attending the annual Father and Daughter Dances hosted by the City of Atascadero and the Main Street Dance Company in Templeton.
Published February 10: The City approved the parklet program as a way for restaurants to remain open and comply with tight COVID pandemic restrictions on indoor dining. During its peak, more than 20 parklets were installed in place of roughly 60 parking spots.
28. Starting March 12, masks will no longer be required in school and child care facilities. However, they are still strongly recommended.
Published February 4: On Sunday, January 30, Santa Margarita native and WWII veteran Harold Lowe passed away at 102 years old. He has been laid to rest at Reis Mortuary, and a graveside service was held at Los Osos Valley Memorial Park in February.
Published February 4: If there was a cause in Paso Robles that needed volunteers or awareness
Published February 17: The annual Sweet Art Luncheon hosted by Studios on the Park returned to Paso Robles this year after taking a hiatus due to the pandemic. This time to celebrate adventurers, founding board members, and champions of the arts, Liz and Newlin Hastings.
Published March 3: California, Oregon, and Washington announced the end of mask mandates for students in a joint statement on Monday, February
Published March 3: After over two years in the making, an archway, created and designed by local artist Dale Evers, was installed over Norma's Alley on Pine and 12th Street on Tuesday, February 22.
Published March 10: Lee Swam (aka the Daffodil Man) was beloved not only in the city of Atascadero but all over the North County. From planting thousands of daffodils throughout Atascadero to creating traditions that we still experience today, Swam left amazing memories in his wake.
Published March 10: This year celebrates Atascadero's 100th year of Fire and Emergency Services in our beautiful city. The Fire Department started out small in 1922 but has only grown in equipment, facilities, and staff since then. And this year, we're celebrating.
Paso Robles Police Department Introduces New Police ChiefPublished March 24: On Saturday, March 5, as a lastsecond replacement, Atascadero amateur boxer JJ Subia jumped in the car with his dad and headed to Madera to participate in the final round of the Madera Throwdown.
Published April 7: It's been 22 years since Atascadero's Fine Arts Academy (FAA) came into being. And though COVID-19 stopped its 20-year celebration and reunion in 2020, staff, past students, and the school's founders are remedying that this year.
headed out to Atascadero Bible Church to participate in the 11th Annual Empty Bowls luncheon, which benefits the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) and all they do for the North County.
Published May 12: Two San Luis Obispo County law enforcement officers will be honored at the annual San Luis Obispo County’s Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremony.
Published May 12: Records were broken when the Templeton High School’s (THS) girls swim team took home the CIF Central Section Division 2 championship over the last weekend.
Published May 19: The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Department held its inaugural Sheriff's Rodeo on Saturday, May 14, and the community was ready for it. More than 4,000 people were in attendance.
enthusiasts came out in full force to Santa Margarita this Memorial weekend for the Best of the West Antique Equipment Show. Proceeds from the event support the Paso Robles Annual Pioneer Day celebrations.
Published June 2: More than 300 people showed up for the return of the Paso Robles District Cemetery's Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 30. The event honors and remembers the men and women who lost their lives in service to our country.
Published May 26: Community members and Atascadero business owners gathered together on the evening of Saturday, May 21, for the 99th Annual Atascadero Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala where Kevin Campion was named Citizen of the Year.
Published June 9: On Thursday, June 2, family and friends of the students in Atascadero High School's (AHS) graduating Class of 2022 filled the bleachers at Memorial Stadium.
Published April 28: On Saturday, April 2, Tonya Pennington, a school bus driver for the Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD), averted a potential disaster when her bus started having mechanical failures due to an electrical fire.
Published May 5: On Thursday, April 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., community members
Published May 12: After a year away, the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Gala at Rava Wines in person on May 7 honoring both Roblans of the year Pat Bland as the 2020 Roblan and Brian Thorndyke as the 2021.
Published May 26: Friends and families headed out to Atascadero Lake Park on Saturday, May 21, for the fifth annual Lake Fest. Friends of Atascadero Lake and THE LINK Family Resource Center teamed up to bring the community not one but two events, also incorporating Children's Day at the Park with Lake Fest. The events were co-sponsored by the City of Atascadero.
Published June 2: American history and equipment
Published June 9: Lighthouse Atascadero held its eighth annual Lighthouse Run on the morning of Saturday, June 4. After a two-year break, the 5K was held at the Santa Margarita Ranch Educational Center from 8 to 11 a.m.
Published June 16: On a more than toasty day, Paso Robles High School (PRHS) hosted its 126th graduation for the Class of 2022 on Friday, June 10, at War Memorial Stadium.
Published June 16: The Class of 2022 from Templeton High School officially graduated and closed their high school chapter on Thursday, June 9.
Nelson, CEO of Cinema Square, LLC, and the theater’s owner, announced on Thursday, June 23.
Published July 7: Independence Day was filled with red, white, and blue from the northern part of the county all the way to the coast.
Published July 28: Two young women dominated this year’s JB Dewar Tractor Restoration competition at the California Mid-State Fair.
Published June 16: Bella Otter made her hometown of Atascadero proud when she brought home two gold medals after competing in the Pan American Championships in Nova Scotia, Canada, at the beginning of the month. The Championships took place from May 31 thru June 5.
Published June 23: After just over a year after breaking ground on the building, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast (CGCMCC) celebrated the grand opening of the Tom Maas Clubhouse in Paso Robles.
Published June 30: The movie theater in the Colony Square shopping center will have a new operator effective immediately. Sanborn Theatres, the local family cinema business, will replace Galaxy Theatre as operator after 10 years, Jeff
Published July 21: Since the summer of 2000, the All Comers Track Meet has been a family favorite in Atascadero. This year the event started on Wednesday, July 13, with the following meet on Wednesday, July 20, and concluding with its final meet on Wednesday, July 27. The All Comers track meet is held at Atascadero Memorial Stadium at Atascadero High School.
Published July 21: A new court has been crowned at the California Mid-State Fair. Like in 2021, the Miss California Mid-State Fair [CMSF] Pageant was held on Wednesday, July 20, the opening night of the fair.
Published July 28: Historically, downtown Atascadero, specifically the Traffic Way area, used to be a well-known Arts District. The Equality Mural Project is working hard to bring art back into our thriving community.
Winemaker’s
Published August 18: The Paso Robles Rotary Club held their community favorite Winemaker’s Cookoff, which benefits their scholarship program for Paso Robles High School graduates.
Published September 1: Seventeen U.S. veterans took flight on Saturday, August 27, in the “Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber,” a restored World War II C-47 aircraft, for an Honor Flight around the Central Coast.
Published September 1: Born on September 2, 1922, World War II veteran Charles "Cap" Capper will celebrate his 100th birthday.
Published September 8: On Friday, September 2, the aviation community lost one of its own when Sherman Smoot died in a plane accident in Kern County. Smoot was piloting his Yakovlev Yak-11, named “Czech Mate,” in preparation for the upcoming Reno Air Races, held yearly in September.
Published September 1: Children's House Montessori School has been a staple in education in Atascadero for the last 42 years. Even though the school officially missed its 40-year anniversary in 2020 due to COVID, the school has thrived through the last two years and stayed open to the community.
Published September 15: Three of Atascadero's residents have been awarded the roles of Grand Marshal, King, and Queen of Colony Days by the Atascadero Colony Days Committee. Ann Little will act as Grand Marshal, while Dan and Ramona Phillips will be crowned the King and Queen.
Published September 22: Dancing with our Stars (DWOS) was back and bigger than ever this year. The local dance charity fundraiser took place at the Atascadero Lake Pavillion over the course of four nights.
Local Named First Creston Man of the Year at Creston Classic Rodeo
Published September 22: A special member of the Creston Classic Rodeo family was recognized the weekend of, Sept. 15-18, at the 26th Annual Creston Classic Rodeo (CCR). Cole McKenney was honored as the first Creston Man of the Year.
Published September 22: The Bearcat community unexpectedly lost Jim Wiemann on Thursday, August 4, at the age of 56, leaving a hole in the Paso Robles sports community, where he was the go-to sports announcer and broadcaster.
Published October 20: After 26 years of investigation, Paul Flores has been found guilty of the first-degree murder of Kristin Smart. The verdict came on Tuesday, October 18, right before noon when Paul’s jury reached a decision after just over 20 hours of deliberation.
many people showed up that more chairs needed to be added to the tables.
Published November 24: Park Cinemas celebrates 25 years in business this December, and they are ready to celebrate the milestone with the community.
Published December 1: On Friday, November 25, in front of a packed house at Memorial Stadium, the Atascadero Greyhounds football team was crowned CIF Central Section Division 5 champions, defeating Pioneer Valley 27-13.
Published October 6: On Saturday, October 1, Atascadero residents and spectators from all over the county lined El Camino Real to watch and cheer on the 48th Colony Days Parade. The parade started at 10 a.m., with Colony Days festivities carrying on until 3 p.m. in and around Sunken Gardens.
Published October 20: The Estrella Warbirds Museum celebrated 30 years of preserving and hosting aviation history on Saturday, October 15. The celebration honored the museum’s beginnings, remembered late aviator Sherman Smoot, and kicked off funding for the museum's proposed western expansion.
Published November 10: Fans of the classical composer Ignacy Jan Paderewski (known for stopping in Paso Robles while on tour) headed out to experience the three-day Paderewski Festival dedicated to the famous musician.
Published November 24: On Friday, November 25, the Hidden Springs Christmas Tree Farm in Atascadero will open for its 60th season with seven varieties of trees to choose from, hot cider, and plenty of opportunities to make memories.
Published November 24: Coats for Kids has been helping keep families warm for 35 years, and after two years of modified giving, they will be joining the Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles for the “Day of Giving” on Saturday, December 10.
Published December 8: San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors approved the adoption of a new Paso Basin Planting Ordinance. The new ordinance was greatly opposed by the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau, SLO County Cattleman’s Association, Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, and SLO County Planning Commission, among others.
Published December 8: A cold, wet, and pitch-dark night didn’t dampen festivities too much on Friday, December 2, as the City of Atascadero and Chamber of Commerce once again lit up the Sunken Gardens and the iconic City Hall for Christmas.
Published October 13: The day Paso Roblans have been waiting for finally came, the 92nd Annual Paso Robles Pioneer Day and Parade.
Published November 17: Saturday, November 12, Atascadero High School alumni, sports alums, members of the Atascadero Greyhound Foundation, and former Greyhound Foundation Athletic Hall of Fame inductees gathered at the Pavilion on the Lake to celebrate the 2022 inductees into the Hall of Fame. Approximately 140 people attended the ceremony, and so
Published November 24: The Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center and Templeton Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce Brett Butterfield as the 2022 Roblan of the Year.
Published December 8: Rain could not keep the Christmas spirit away Saturday, December 3, as the community lined the streets to watch the 61st Annual Christmas Lights Parade in Paso Robles.
Welcome, 2023. We have an exciting year ahead of us. It’s our 100th anniversary here at the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce and we’re pulling out all the stops. There’s no better way to celebrate than with new programs to help our local business community thrive in the new year. The team and I have worked hard and we’re in the process of rolling out three new programs to benefit you.
First is the Get Your Business Online! Program; this initiative supports assisting small businesses to modernize the way they conduct business in 2023 and beyond. The trend of online shopping and booking has only grown, and COVID-19 only accelerated this trend. Now, it’s even more essential that local shops get online to meet the new way customers are shopping and booking. This program seeks to bridge the gap between stores and the digital space by offering in-person training, expert guidance, and creative assistance online.
The second program we’re working on addresses one of the top challenges faced by our region’s businesses — workforce
development. The COVID-19 Pandemic brought significant and unforeseen impacts to the local business community. That’s why immediately after the economic shutdown in 2020, our Chamber team began partnering with local employers regarding funding assistance and business retention solutions. Now, we’ve agreed to serve as the Contract Lead on behalf of the San Luis Obispo County Chambers of Commerce for our Workforce Development Program to engage our business community with workforce development programs to keep, create, and promote local jobs.
Last but not least is our Jr. CEO Program, a five-week digital business education course that teaches children the basics of starting their own company. It includes a fall and spring program around scenarios like opening a hot chocolate stand or an orange juice stand. This program is great for sixth-graders and above and covers essential concepts like business fundamentals, cost models, safety/ food prep, marketing, customer service, and money management.
The Chamber team and I want to thank you for your support over the years. Every day that we can work to help local businesses is another day well spent. Thank you for an amazing 100 years — let’s keep this going strong for another 100.
A-1 Pest Management a-1-pest-management.business.site
Ametza Clothing Shopametza.com
Beacon of Hope beaconofhopefacility.com
Better Business Bureau of the Tri-Counties BBB.org
Bramble Pie bramblepiecompany.com
Delta Bioproducts
Independent Bemer Distributor IBD#US79969 nancyspitzer.bemergroup.com
Ernest Grace Enterprise
Ice Cream Shop La Michoacana facebook.com/icecreamshoplamichoacana/
Martinez Restaurant facebook.com/martinezrestaurant14/
Maxine Rodriguez talkeasthills.com
Planet Fitness planetfitness.com
Tera Brandolino
WCP Property Management & Real Estate wcjpm.com
Note: All Chamber Members were asked to participate in this Guide by submitting entries.
The Atascadero Printery Foundation hosted its annual Founders Reception on November 13 at the Community Church of Atascadero. The Printery Foundation board members and supporters of the performing arts gathered for a silent auction, live performances, and an update on the Foundation's fundraising efforts throughout 2022.
Performances from the Atascadero Printery Foundation's inaugural Talent Show winners, Class Act Dance, singer/songwriter Shea Angles, pianist Julz Muya, and Kobe Wescom (who performed a live monologue from Shakespeare).
"We had some great live performances and good music," said Atascadero Printery Foundation President Karen McNamara.
After his monologue, Wescom went on to give a speech about how the arts have affected his life and how much the North County needs a usable facility this side of the Cuesta Grade.
"We don't have any public community performance centers in northern San Luis Obispo County," added McNamara.
On top of the performances and auction, the board gave an annual update for the attendees of the reception, themed It's Time.
"During the event, we gave an update on where we are at with [this year's] fundraising. At the reception, we accepted a check from the Atascadero Performing Arts Center Committee for $13,700, which completed the match of the gift that we were pledged last year at the
Founder's Reception of $100,000," McNamara explained.
The match was raised in a year, and at the reception, they officially received the $100,000 donation from Jennifer and Lucas Pierce.
"Now we have $200,000 in our red tag fund. That's just the red tag removal fund. That's not what our general fund is," McNamara said. "That tells me that the community is behind our project. We've raised total this year of at least $300,000."
The Foundation has been working toward the goal of getting the red tag off the Printery building and allowing people inside. McNamara also stated that they shared the sustainability of getting the Printery functioning and open to the public in their business plan.
"Our business plan looks very good for the sustainability of the project because of the many uses. So we drive that home a bit," she added.
At the reception, at least $20,000 additional funds were raised for the Printery's general fund.
"It was just a wonderful event. Everything turned out beautifully," McNamara said. "We're well over $500,000 that we've received from the community [in total]. The $200,000 is just our red tag campaign."
McNamara explained that they have big plans ahead for 2023 and welcome all community involvement.
To learn more about The Atascadero Printery Foundation, volunteer, or donate, visit atascaderoprintery.org.
Happy New Year! Do you have what it takes to serve in the public sector? If so, the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education may be able to help. Grants, scholarships, and partnerships with local university preparation programs are available. January’s article reflects on the past, a call to service, and assistance in becoming a public sector employee. The private and public employment sectors have benefits and drawbacks. I encourage anyone considering the public sector to weigh the advantages, priorities, and preferences to make an informed choice, as I did more than 35 years ago.
As I completed my undergraduate education at the University of California, San Diego, my career path suddenly came to a screeching and confusing halt. While applying for graduate school to become a clinical psychologist, I realized this was not my path. As part of the graduate school application process, I had been volunteering at a group home for children in San Diego for a year. However, I did not see myself serving the community as a psychologist. During the next few weeks, I spoke with family and friends about my uncertainty. My father, an engineer, encouraged me to follow the emerging boom in high-tech, grandma wanted me to become a priest, and the rest of my family or friends said to pursue something I enjoyed. Finally, I phoned a former mathematics teacher from my high school with whom I had maintained contact throughout college.
Brother Jerome Gorg, a Marianist who dedicated his life to service, had encouraged me to work in the math lab at my high school to tutor other students for credit and then as a volunteer. He often quoted Ben Franklin, “Tell me, and I forget. Teach me, and I remember. Involve me, and I learn.” Brother Jerry involved me in mathematics and teaching. He had a Socratic way of responding to a question with another question designed to make one think. During our phone conversation, he reminded me of my service and asked why I continued volunteering after completing my required elective time. I responded that I enjoyed assisting others and grew in my passion for learning as a tutor. Brother Jerry said, “I think you have an answer to your question.”
In dedicating my career to public service, I have worked as a custodian, teaching assistant, classroom teacher, college instructor, and administrator. The first ten years of my teaching career were in service to English language learners and students living in poverty. The past twenty-five has
been as an administrator dedicated to promoting high-quality programs. Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Public service is a place to promote social justice for a democratic society. It is the responsibility of all concerned about our country to encourage highly qualified and dedicated public sector employees. The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education has written and received several grants offering scholarships, program subsidies, and tuition reimbursements that can address the recruitment of public sector employees.
California continues to experience employee shortages across the state because of the economy, retiring baby boomers, and a reduction in avenues for training. Business leaders in private industry, the public sector, and local small businesses are experiencing a shortage of employees. Surveys conducted by organizations such as Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and the Society the Human Resource Management (SHRM), report that some sectors have nearly 48 percent of current employees considering leaving for better work opportunities. Will the tight labor market continue in 2023, and how can business leaders address employment challenges? Research indicates that employees are empowered to go where they feel valued, directly impact positive workplace outcomes, and have opportunities to improve skills.
The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education works with all districts, charters, and childcare centers to scholarship pre-apprentices, apprentices, interns, substitutes, and current employees interested in obtaining additional training. Individuals interested in public sector employment found in our local school districts, such as administration, classroom service, fiscal services, human resources, IT, maintenance and operations, support services, and transportation, should consider the support we can provide. Please contact your local school district or the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education for additional information. Our tax-payer-funded system controls whom we train and employ in our organizations. We should prioritize the value of highly qualified and locally trained employees. We must now encourage intelligent young people to consider public-sector employment. Our secondary and post-secondary education leadership should promote expanding capacity and recruiting highly qualified public sector employees. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.
January — the beginning of a new year and on an average, known to be the coldest month of the year. When I think about all the rich meals, all the holiday parties, and all the decadent desserts, I’m ready for a simple, warm bowl of soup.
Just picture yourself sitting by a cozy fire, sipping a delicious soup, served with a slice of fresh bread, and a glass of your favorite wine.
I love to make soups, so I watch for new recipes or scan through my cookbook collection in search of a new idea. I did just that for this January issue.
Ingredients
4 quarts chicken broth
2 pounds dried split peas
1 cup chopped ham
Directions
½ cup chopped onion1/2 cup chopped celery
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker. Stir well to combine. Cover; cook on low 8 to 10 hours or on high 4 to 6 hours; or until peas are soft. Mix with hand mixer or hand blender on low speed until smooth. Serves 8
Ingredients
1 can Anderson potato soup
1 can cream of asparagus soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can king crab or fresh crab
1/3 package frozen chopped spinach 2 green onions, chopped ½ cup grated Cheddar cheese
Dash cayenne ½ cup white wine
Directions Mix all ingredients together and heat.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large Vidalia onions, coarsely chopped
1 package (10 ounces cremini mushrooms
1 package (10 ounces) button mushrooms
Directions
Kosher salt and black pepper
2 tablespoons butter 6 to 10 cloves garlic, peeled and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons sherry 4 cups beef broth
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and mushrooms and season well with salt and pepper. Cook vegetables, stirring often, until cooked down and fragrant, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add butter and garlic and cook gently another 1 to 2 minutes. Add sherry to pan and stir to scrape up any bits stuck to bottom. Transfer sherry and vegetables into a slow cooker and add broth. Cover and cook on low 5 to 6 hours or on high 3 to 4 hours. Serves 4-6 Serves 4-6
Ingredients
4 medium leeks (white portion only), chopped ½ cup minced chives
½ cup butter
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared
Directions
with milk and butter)
2 tablespoons minced fresh savory or 2 teaspoons dried savory 3 cups half-and-half cream
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large saucepan, saute leeks and chives in butter until tender. Add the broth, potatoes and savory; bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes. Cool slightly. Process in batches in a blender or food processor until smooth; return to pan. Stir in cream, salt and pepper; heat through. Serves 8-10
Ingredients
8 medium onions, thinly sliced 1/3 cup butter
2 tablespoons allpurpose flour 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper
Directions
8 cups chicken broth 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream ½ cup milk
12 slices french bread (1-inch thick), toasted 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
In a large kettle or Dutch oven, saute onions in butter until tender. Sprinkle with flour, salt and pepper; cook and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add broth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered, for 30 minutes. Combine sour cream and milk. Stir into soup; heat through (do not boil). Place a slice of toasted bread in each soup bowl; ladle soup over bread. Sprinkle with cheese. Serves 12
Fix a cup of soup and enjoy the month of January. Cheers!
EAST SIDE OF AVILA BEACH PIER
11:30-2pm
The 11th annual Polar Bear Plunge is a celebration of fitness, nature, camaraderie and a New Year! Leave your wet suit at home and come with friends and family to the Avila Beach Pier. Bring costumes, floaties, etc, but no dogs, please. Commemorative shirts are available for purchase, and proceeds benefit the 40 Prado homeless shelter. For more info, go to avilabeachpolarbearplunge.com.
Starting at 8am, take a walk along the beach at low tide to celebrate the New Year and to see what ocean curiosities show up. Meet at the Morro Rock parking lot restrooms, dress for the weather. Strollers and wheelchairs encouraged, but should have big tires for sand. Easy, and fun for families.
CAYUCOS BEACH 12pm
Each year, thousands of brave individuals and teams start the new year with a dip into the Pacific Ocean in Cayucos. Cayucos Chamber of Commerce puts on the family-friendly event, in partnership with multiple county agencies. Commemorative t-shirts (designed by local Cayucos elementary school students) and participant certificates will be available. Proceeds of shirt sales cover event costs and local Cayucos Chamber flagship events.
6500 PALMA AVE., DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO & THE SUNKEN GARDENS 11am-7pm
Enjoy a variety of tamales, including gourmet, traditional or sweet, from vendors all over California. While indulging in tamales, there will be entertainment from Emcee Francisco Ramirez along with Medina Light Show Designs and over 50 vendors displaying merchandise and crafts, as wells as adult beverages. There will also be a tamale eating contest and Chihuahua & Pet Costume Contest.
PISMO BEACH
Time Tentative
Men and Women’s professional surfing contest where young California athletes are able to compete at the most important and recognizable events in their sport without having to leave the state or travel great distances. This includes the ability to earn valuable WSL Qualifying Series points, compete against international athletes, and gain valuable competition experience.
PAVILION ON THE LAKE, ATASCADERO 6:30-9:30pm
(ages 12 and under) Bring your special girl to the Father-Daughter Dance at the Pavilion on the Lake for a semiformal evening of music, dancing, refreshments, & more! A professional photographer will be on-site with affordable picture packages.
(ages 12 and over) Bring your special girl to the Father-Daughter Dance at the Pavilion on the Lake for a semi-formal evening of music, dancing, refreshments, & more! A professional photographer will be on-site with affordable picture packages.
Paso Robles
11TH & SPRING, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446
9am - 11am
Welcome the 2023 Board of Directors and thank the 2022 outgoing Board members. They will also honor the Roblan of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Beautification Award recipient, and Business of the Year, as they share the Chamber's accomplishments from 2022 and look forward to the year ahead.
Atascadero
6505 EL CAMINO REAL, ATASCADERO, CA 93422
3pm - 6pm
Templeton
CROCKER ST & 6TH ST, TEMPLETON, CA 93465
9am - 12:30pm
Paso Robles: County Farm & Craft Market
11TH & SPRING, PASO ROBLES 9am - 1pm
6555 Capistrano • (805) 461-6161
Register online at slolibrary.org
Hours:
• Tuesday 10-6
• Wednesday 10-6
• Thursday 9-5
• Friday 10-5
• Saturday 9-5
Thursday Jan. 5th & 19th from 3 to 4:30 p.m.Come read stories to Jack the dog!
Toddler Storytime
Every Friday at 10:30 a.m.- Join Ms. Sally in the library and read books, sing songs, and have fun!
Every Friday at 10:30 a.m.- Join Ms. Sally in the library and read books, sing songs, and have fun!
Every Friday at 10 a.m.- Bring your device in and Donna will do her best to answer any questions you have.
January 4th from 10 - 11:30 a.m. - Get connected with Primary care, recovery, clothing, food, Medicare, shelter, mental health, showers, health insurance, and more.
Teen Scene
Friday Jan. 13th & 27th from 2-3:30 p.m. Activities for teens at the library, including Legos, board games, movies, and more! Ages 10-17
Lego Club
Saturday Jan. 28th from 2 to 3 p.m. Create and build with Legos at the Library! For kids age 5-12
Creston
6290 Adams St. • (805) 237-3010
Santa Margarita Library
9630 Murphy Ave. • (805) 438-5622
San Miguel Library
254 13th St. • (805) 467-3224
Shandon Library
195 N 2nd St. • (805) 237-3009
Providing support, education and hope 1051 Las Tablas Road, Templeton • (805) 238-4411 • Cancer Support Helpline • (888) 793-9355, 6 a.m.- 6 p.m. PST.
• Visit: cscslo.org for more info Special Programs Email programs@cscslo.org for Zoom links and more info
• Every Wednesday
• Tai Chi Chih | Virtual via Zoom• 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
• Mindfulness Hour | Virtual via Zoom • 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month
• Grief Support Group | Virtual via Zoom • 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
• 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month
• Adv. Cancer Support Group | Virtual
• 10:00 a.m - 11:00 a.m.
• 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month
• Caregiver Support Group | In Person • 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
• 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month
• Cancer Patient Support Group | In Person • 11:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m.
• 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month
• Grief Support Group (Templeton) | Virtual via Zoom • 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Explore Cancer Support Community’s Virtual Home:
• cancersupportcommunity.org/virtual-programs
Atascadero Bible Church Library, 6225 Atascadero Ave, Atascadero
• 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month
• 6-8pm
Meet in the Pavilion parking lot 9315 Pismo Ave Atascadero
• 1st Saturday of each month 11:00 am
• Bring your walking poles if you have them Contact for more info: Vic Breault vjbreault@gmail.com
• (951) 663-9841
Atascadero Chamber of Commerce
atascaderochamber.org • (805) 466-2044
6907 El Camino Real, Suite A, Atascadero, CA 93422
Templeton Chamber of Commerce templetonchamber.com • (805) 434-1789
321 S. Main Street #C, Templeton, CA 93465
• Atascadero #14927 • 2rd Thursday of each month, 6:00 p.m., Outlaws Bar & Grill, 9850 E. Front Rd.
• Atascadero • Meeting • every Wednesday, 12 p.m. at Springhill Suites by Marriott, 900 El Camino Real
• Atascadero • 7848 Pismo Ave. • 805-610-7229
• Meeting • In person or Zoom every Thursday, 7:00 a.m.
Atascadero #2814 • 9555 Morro Rd., • 805-466-3305
• Meeting • first Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
• Atascadero Lodge 2733 • 1516 El Camino Real • 805-466-3557
• Lodge Meeting — second and fourth Thursdays
Atascadero Club 2385 • 5035 Palma Ave. Atascadero
• Meeting — Every 2nd, 4th Wednesday at 7 p.m. Santa Margarita Club 2418 • 9610 Murphy St.
• Meeting — 2nd, 4th Monday, 7:30 p.m. Shandon Valley Club • (630) 571-5466
• Meeting — Call ahead for meeting times Templeton Club 2427 • 601 Main St.
• Meeting — 1st and 3rd Thursday, 7 p.m.
• Atascadero 2067 • 8507 El Camino Real • 805-466-5121 Visit mooseintl.org for more information
• Republican Headquarters - 7357 El Camino Real, Meetings • 4th Tuesday 11:00 am
• visit atascaderorepublicanwomenfederated.com
first and third Tuesday, Closed Session 6pm, Open/Regular Session 7 p.m
• first and third Tuesday, 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 6500 Palma Avenue
• second and fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 6500 Palma Avenue
Visit atascadero.org for virtual & up to date meeting info. General information: City Hall M-F, 8:30 a.m. to 5p.m. (805) 461-5000
In 1963 on August 28, Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. In the speech, Dr. King drew directly on the promises made in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution to call for civil rights and an end to racism.
“When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
King’s most important work applied America’s founding ideals to the cause of civil rights. The last best hope for true racial progress, King realized, was solidarity: For people to see and treat one another as equals, they had to feel the tugs of a bond far stronger than either race or politics, and for King, that bond was America.
After all, there are two words in the phrase “civil rights,” and King grasped that both are crucial. Civil rights are about the fair and equal participation of all citizens in the American community. For those rights to have any power, the bonds of that community must be close-knit and resilient.
“I criticize America because I love her,” King said in a speech about the Vietnam War, “and because I want to see her to stand as the moral example of the world.”
All Americans alike can learn from King’s example, “In the United States of America, every citizen should have the opportunity to build a better and brighter future. United as one American family, we will not rest, and we will never be satisfied until the promise of this great nation is accessible to each American in each new generation.”
The premise and promise of King’s dream is that we don’t need to replace or transform our nation’s shared ideals to make our country a better place.
We simply need to live up to them.
On April 3, 1968, the eve of his assassination, King gave his “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” address at the Bishop Charles Mason Temple in Memphis, Tenn. In standing with the Memphis sanitation workers on strike, Dr. King struck a familiar chord in tying the striking workers’ economic rights to their natural human rights and their civil rights, as promised in the founding documents.
“But somewhere, I read of the freedom of assembly. Somewhere I read of the freedom of speech. Somewhere I read of the freedom of
press. Somewhere I read that the greatness of America is the right to protest for right. And so, just as I say, we aren’t going to let any dogs or water hoses turn us around; we aren’t going to let any injunction turn us around. We are going on. We need all of you.”
In that same speech, he went on to say, “Because if I had sneezed, I wouldn’t have been around here in 1960, when students all over the South started sitting in at lunch counters. And I knew that as they were sitting in, they were really standing up for the best in the American dream and taking the whole nation back to those great wells of democracy, which were dug deep by the founding fathers in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.”
King left a legacy of hope and inspiration that continues on today; his love and admiration of the founding fathers, the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution were unwavering and gave him hope of what could be and what was to come.
Monday, January 16, will mark America’s 38th celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy. Honoring King with the sacred status of a federal holiday, of which there are only ten, none other named for a 20th-century figure, is a testament to the unifying power of his legacy.
