Atascadero News • April 18, 2024

ECHO’s Empty Bowls returns for ninth year

The event took place in a new location, The Pavilion on the Lake

ATASCADERO — El

Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) was back for its 9th Annual Empty Bowls on Thursday, April 11, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The first installment of the event took place at a new venue, The Pavillion on the Lake, after eight years of being hosted at Atascadero Bible Church (ABC).

“We are so grateful for the years of support from Atascadero Bible Church, but we just wanted to move to a venue that we were able to access the night before. It helped with set up and really made the event run so smoothly,” said ECHO President and CEO Wendy Lewis. ECHO estimated that over 300 community members rolled out to the Atascadero Empty Bowls. That did not

count their celebrity servers or the volunteers who came out to help put it on.

This year’s celebrity server lineup starred Don Idler, Jen Idler, Pepper Daniels, Atascadero City Councilmem-

ber Charles Bourbeau, Randy Doty, Tom O’Malley, 2024 Atascadero Citizen of the Year Jerry Tanimoto, Andy Morris, Atascadero Police Chief Dan Suttles, and Atascadero Fire Captain Dean Pericic.

“This year’s Empty Bowls was extremely successful. Our community always steps up and supports us when we have these big events,” added Lewis. Another addition to this year’s Empty Bowls was a

collaboration between ECHO and The Pottery. The Pottery’s owner, Alecia Teague, hosted a series of classes where community members could come in and make two bowls for the

District given update on opening of AHS pool

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD) Board of Trustees met for its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, April 16, at 7 p.m. The meeting was held and streamed from the Creston Elementary School Cafeteria. Trustees Tracy EllisWeit and Rebekah Koznek were absent from the meeting. During his Superintendent’s Report, Tom Butler invited Atascadero Unified

SAN LUIS OBISPO

COUNTY — At the Tuesday, April 9, supervisors meeting, the San Luis Obispo County supervisors considered two projects under the 2024 General Plan Amendment (GPA).

Residents Andrew and Merry Joslin requested that the land-use category be changed from Office

presented with the Joslin project at the Feb. 27 meeting and tentatively approved it.

second amendment request had not been presented to the board previously. Resident Colter Negranti asked to amend the Inland Land Use Element of the County General Plan to change the land use from Residential Suburban to Multiple Use Industrial and Commercial Services. He also requested that the County Inland Land Use Ordinance be amended to add new planning area standards regarding discretionary land use permit requirements and establish water use limitations

NORTH COUNTY —

Despite disappointing rain last weekend, the community was able to enjoy some sun and art for the annual Spring Art in the Park. Many artists and craftsmen persevered through the rain on Saturday, April 13, and were welcomed with mid-morning blue skies on Sunday.

Recovering from the corporate world, photographer Nic Stover has spent the last four years as a professional photographer, traveling all over the world when he isn’t teaching photography classes at his home base of San Luis Obispo.

“I get to do this full time, so I’m really lucky in that regard,” Stover told Atascadero News. “I have images from all over the world.”

get involved in photography and more full-time and then was able to build it into my profession,” said Stover.

Specializing in nature and landscape, Stover says that the Central Coast boasts many opportunities to capture beautiful images.

“I’ve always been an outdoor guy but I made the decision to

Having his images printed on metal canvases not only brings his photography to life but were also convenient with the rainy weather on Saturday.

The spring Art in the Park is a must show for Stover to attend since he is usually traveling the world in the fall. What sets him apart from other photographers is he has no social media — rare these days for a photographer.

“I just didn’t have a healthy relationship with social, social media going all the way back into 2017 and going back in 2016,” he explained. “And I made the choice in 2018 to get off completely.”

Some people told Stover that decision would be the

CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

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ECHO’S EMPTY BOWLS

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event. One to keep and one to give to other attendees. Teague also hosted a class where ECHO residents could attend and make and give bowls for the event.

“One of our residents that attended the class, she’s actually found permanent housing and she shared how she was so excited to be able to have her first bowl in her new home. And it was this beautiful bowl that she had made,” added Lewis.

On top of the classes presented at The Pottery, many of the other bowls were made and donated by local artists and students.

“The other part that’s incredible about this event is most everything is donated. We have such a low event cost to put the event on, so almost all of the funds raised goes back into programming and that’s only possible because of our the donations of the beautiful bowls, the delicious soups,

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that’s the part that makes this event extra special,” Lewis said.

The community also showed up by providing soups for the beautiful handmade bowls, baked goods, and ice cream to go along with it.

In fact, 20 soup and food providers came through for the event, including Novo, Wild Fields Brewhouse, McPhee’s Grill, Don Q’s, Niner Wine, Street Side, Halfway Station, Dans Grub Shack, Cass

Winery, Brian’s Bread, Bread Bike, A Town Humble Pies, BL Brasserie , Red Scooter, The HATCH, Pappy McGregors, Thomas Hill Organics, Odyssey World Café, Etto Pasta, and Negranti Creamery.

“When they see what we’re trying to accomplish and see our incredible stats that we’re able to show. They support us,” said Lewis on the support from the Atascadero community.

Last year, ECHO was able to help 201 individuals or families get themselves back into permanent housing. That’s the most people they’ve helped in one year in the history of ECHO. So far this year, they’ve already helped over 70 individuals and families.

“We’re exceeding our record numbers from last year. It’s only possible with support from the community, our volunteers, our team,” Lewis continued.

Empty Bowls would not be able to happen without its sponsors; this year, those sponsors are: Howard Products, Home & Ranch Sotheby’s International Realty — David Crabtree, BBSI, Browder Painting, PG&E, Astound Broadband, Specialty Construction Inc., Mechanics Bank, Premier Valley Bank, Idlers Home, Community West Bank, American Riviera Bank, Central Coast Moving Company, The Pottery Atascadero, BHE Renewables, Don and Elaine Witmer, Corvus Wealth Advi -

sors, County of San Luis Obispo, Karlandia Foundation, SESLOC Bank, DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Brokers, Carmel & Naccasha LLP, Studios on the Park, All About Events, Atascadero 76, Steve Schmidt Topsoil, Boone Graphics, State Farm Insurance — Courtney Morrow, Arris Studio Architects, The Penny, Dignity Health, Mission Bank, Gerber’s Auto Services , Sky River RV, CoastHills Credit Union, KSBY, AGM, and Dimes Media.

ECHO’s second Empty Bowls event will take place in Paso Robles on Thursday, April 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. To purchase tickets, go to echoshelter.org/events-1.

All funds raised, which will be calculated after the second event later this month, will go directly toward both the Atascadero and Paso Robles ECHO campuses.

To find out more about ECHO and how they impact the local unhoused community, volunteer, or donate, go to echoshelter.org.

end of his profession as a photographer, but he is happy to report that he has been thriving ever since.

Among artists and photographers were many craftspeople at this year’s show. Bobbi Matuk of Paso Robles showcased her naturally dyed fabrics and clothing.

After taking a class a few years ago, Matuk was hooked and made her own business

Couleur de la vie — meaning “color from life.”

“I just fell in love with the whole process

AUSD CONTINUED FROM A1

School District Facilities

Director Brant Lloyd to the podium to give an update on the Atascadero High School (AHS) swimming pool. Lloyd said water was put into the pool a few weeks before Spring Break.

“Right at the beginning of Spring Break, we had the specialist come along,” Lloyd said. “He is the one that connects all of the equipment that was installed by the pool subcontractor. He’s the one who actually makes the connections and helps turn the equipment on.”

AHS’s pool operator, who came from the school’s

SUPERVISORS

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and then I just started experimenting and learning more and now I grow my own flowers that I use to do my dyeing with. I do also purchase some ancient dyeing materials,” she said.

All of Matuks fabrics and clothing are natural fibers which produce the best imprints and colors with the natural dyes.

This was Matuk’s fifth time at the Paso Robles Art in the Park weekend show, “I like this show because you get locals that are coming down, your friends, that stop by to see you. And you get tourists that are just walking around, you know, because ... this is just such a beautiful location.”

groundskeeping staff, is now working alongside the pool specialist to learn everything about this specific pool.

“Hand in hand, these guys are making sure the flow is correct, making sure the chemical balance is correct. It’s a good thing because with any type of new thing that comes along, you always have some issues to iron out,” stated Lloyd. Lloyd added that there’s still a bit of construction fencing around the pool, and some work is still being done, but that, for the most part, the pool is getting really close to being fully completed. The district has used this time to educate the maintenance staff on how to maintain the pool and bring the coaching staff in to show

The Negranti request would allow a large animal vet clinic on the property. Currently, the property has a single-family dwelling and a workshop.

Staff recommended that the board adopt the resolution and approve both projects. The motion passed unanimously.

The board then held a hearing to consider resolutions in the 2024 Action Plan with project allocations funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), as well as a resolution to a Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) for the unhoused population funded by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), and a resolution to approve 2024 General Fund projects that help programs and services for the unhoused community.

“As of today, HUD has not announced grant allocations for the 2024 Action Plan Program

them the ropes of the new pool.

“We’ll be letting the community know when Mr. Lloyd says the pool is ready, then we’ll get the word out to our entire community to come and see it,” Butler said.

Both the minutes from the March 19 meeting and the Consent Agenda passed unanimously.

The board was then presented with an item on the length of time that video recordings should be kept on the district’s YouTube channel. This was a carry-over item from the March 19 meeting.

Butler provided the board with answers to questions posed at the last meeting. He stated that the government code states that recordings

Year. However, Hud requires the 2024 Action Plan be submitted by May 16,” said Marge Castle, the Program Manager from the Department of Social Services Homeless Services Division. “Allocation received may differ from the estimated funding released in the 2024 NOFA (Notice of Funding Availability); therefore, staff requests the board’s approval for the 2024 Action Plan, authorization to submit the 2024 Action Plan to HUD for approval, authorization for staff to proportionally adjust allocations for projects in the 2024 Action Plan based on the actual grant allocations from HUD, authorization to amend the 2024 Action Plan and submit the amendment to HUD if required.”

The 2024 Action Plan is the fifth and final step in the 2020 to 2024 Consolidated Plan. It’s a document required for any jurisdiction that receives HUD entitlement funds and must be submitted to HUD. Staff estimates that the urban county will receive over $4 million from the grants in 2024.

Some artists took advantage of the rainy weather to create unique art pieces.

Morro Bay-based watercolor artist Kim Winberry could be seen on Sunday painting sea horses on a canvas that she prepped with blue paint and then setting it outside in the rain, creating a natural ocean like scene.

Winberry enjoys focusing on sea life and anything that provokes her interest.

The next Art in the Park weekend show is scheduled for Nov. 2-3. You can find more information here pasoroblesartinthepark.com/ PUBLICSIDE/welcome.html

may be erased or destroyed 30 days after recording. The California School Board Association recommended the same guidance, which has already been adopted by the AUSD. He also stated that all other school districts in the county have the same language in their policies. Most trustee board members said they would still like to see the videos kept online for more than 30 days. Butler recommended that the item be brought back at the next meeting to discuss timing in more detail.

“I would still recommend that we still follow this policy, but we could have a practice where, if the board decides to keep them up for, you know, 90 days, three months, so we could

try that. That’s a quarter of a year. We can monitor it and see if it increases workload,” added Butler.

California School District Financial Advisor Dale Scott then addressed the board with an informational-only item on the feasibility of a future bond. Scott presented the results of an Atascadero survey, which could lead to a measure on the November election ballot.

“This was a survey that was done of voters in your community, focusing specifically on the potential of putting a general allocation bond on the November ballot,” said Scott. The survey was done in both English and Spanish, and it was a survey for voters specifically. According to the survey, around

Estimated HUD 2024 Allocations are: CDGB (Community Development Grant Block Funds) would receive $1,695,269

The Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME) would receive $977,725

The HOME American Rescue Plan (HOMEARP) would receive $322,923

The Emergency Solutions Grant Fund (ESG) would receive $149,655

The board was then presented with a list of 2024 Housing Projects, including the Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) Minor Home Repair, CAPSLO’s 40 Prodo Homeless Services Center in San Luis Obispo, CAPSLO’s Adult Day Care, El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) Navigation Centers, and 5Cities Homeless Coalition (5CHC) Homeless Prevention, Rapid Re-Housing, Subsistence Payments, 5CHC’s Street Outreach, 5CHC’s Shelter Services, Food Bank of SLO’s no-cook bags, Lumina Alliance’s Emergency Assistance, and City of Atascadero’s

68 percent of the community would vote yes on the bond, with a margin of error.

“Before you can get on the ballot, the board needs to pass a resolution, the resolution is then sent to the County Elections Office,” Scott said. “You’re actually asking the county to put the measure on the ballot for you. That resolution has to be with the county by the middle of June (June 18) in this county.”

Passing of the resolution will need a two-thirds vote of approval from the trustee board and will be brought back to the board for approval in May.

The next regularly scheduled AUSD Board of Trustees meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 7, at 7 p.m.

Youth Scholarships.

“It’s really instrumental to know that these funds are coming from different buckets and are getting the results they’re getting,” said Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg after the board was addressed with success stories from many of the above organizations.

Ortiz-Legg also stated that it’s important to sustain the investments that the county has made toward helping the unhoused in the area.

“I would just ask to as we move forward and I support this that over the next year the organizations that are getting this funding, please share your success metrics with us,” said Supervisor John Peschong. We’d like to know what’s going on, what’s working and what’s not working. That way we can manage and really get a feel for how the money on the ground is effecting the community.”

The resolutions passed unanimously.

The next county supervisors meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 23.

Atascadero Police Chief Dan Suttles (left) serves community members their soup at ECHO’s Empty Bowls. Photo by Rick Evans.

Photographer Nic Stover shows off some of his work at the Spring Art in the Park event on April 13. Photo by Camille DeVaul

Avian flu in dairy cows puts focus on cattle movement

Outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza affecting dairy cows in six states

By CHING LEE CALIFORNIA FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

CALIFORNIA — With an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza affecting dairy cows in six states, the California Department of Food and Agriculture has implemented import restrictions on cattle from premises with confirmed or suspected cases of the disease.

The move comes as agricultural officials acknowledge the H5N1 virus has spread between cows. This has prompted calls to minimize dairy cattle movement.

Previously, it was thought that transmission was from infected wild migratory birds, which shed the virus through their feces, saliva and other secretions. It is suspected that the dairy cows initially caught the virus after consuming contaminated food or water. It is now believed that infected cows could pass the virus to other cows, as some affected states had received cattle from an affected dairy in Texas.

California’s new import requirements are “an attempt to mitigate potential transmission from affected premises and dairy cattle to susceptible livestock in California,” according to the state order, which took effect April 4.

To enter California, dairy cattle from states that have H5N1-infected cattle must be inspected by a veterinarian within seven days of shipment. A certificate of veterinary inspection must accompany the cattle saying they do not come from a premise that has infected cattle or is being investigated for H5N1 infection.

Other states, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia, have imposed similar import requirements.

As of Monday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, in dairy herds in Texas, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, Idaho, and Ohio.

A worker at an infected dairy in Texas has tested positive for the virus. It is the second reported human case in the U.S. The first occurred in 2022 in Colorado. Human cases of avian influenza remain uncommon but have occurred sporadically worldwide, according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control.

In addition, the virus has infected 19 different wild mammals in the U.S. The disease has so far not been reported in beef cattle.

The current strain of the H5N1 virus — first identified in Europe in 2020 — has pummeled commercial poultry farms and wild birds worldwide. In the U.S., which reported its first outbreak in 2022, the disease has affected some 86 million birds, with nearly 7.2 million lost in California.

Now that the disease has crossed over to cattle, Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, said some dairy farmers are “absolutely terrified” of the potential impact of an outbreak in California.

Even though H5N1 does not appear to kill cattle directly, unlike in birds, infected cows experience a sudden drop in milk production averaging 10 to 30 pounds per cow, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. About 10 percent of cows do not recover fully and return to previous milk production, Iowa State University reported.

Having to cull that many animals would be a major hardship, Raudabaugh said, as dairies are “already trimmed down to the bare minimum.” Add to that a nationwide shortage of replacement heifers.

“They’re operating on razor-thin margins,” she said. “In addition to production dropping (due to the disease), they now have a serious slump in production because they don’t have enough cows.”

Raudabaugh said farmers are also worried

about the lack of financial help for such losses, as there’s no insurance coverage. Government compensation programs “never pay the farmer what that cow would’ve been worth,” she added. What’s more, farmers cannot sell the infected animals for meat.

Because California still has no confirmed cases of HPAI in dairy cattle, Western United Dairies initially asked CDFA to ban all cattle coming from HPAI-infected states. But Raudabaugh acknowledged that closing borders to the growing number of affected states would be “very tricky,” considering the millions of cattle that move between state lines each year.

Even before the current import restrictions, California was already “ahead when it comes to protecting our cattle,” State Veterinarian Annette Jones said. With its agricultural border stations, California has always required permits to bring cattle into the state, she noted.

Weeks before it was known that HPAI was the culprit for making Texas cattle sick, Jones said CDFA met with border inspectors to ensure they were vigilant when checking for permits and certificates of veterinary inspection.

CDFA is also following up on cattle from affected states that have entered California to check for flu symptoms and to verify they’ve been isolated on arrival.

In addition to decreased milk production, other signs of H5N1 infection include milk that appears yellowish/brown and thicker, resembling colostrum; loss of cow appetite; low-grade fever; and changes in manure consistency. Sick cows must be removed from the milking string.

Steven Fenaroli, political affairs director for the California Farm Bureau, said he thinks the state’s current approach is prudent and measured, and that “blocking the border isn’t the solution” because there’s still the issue of wild birds.

Sonoma County dairy farmer Doug Beretta said it would be virtually impossible to keep wild birds away from the farm. Everything from seagulls, pigeons, crows, starlings, and ravens come to eat the cows’ feed. He said he’s tried

deterrents including owls and reflectors, but the feed remains a draw.

Unlike in the Midwest, where barns are built with doors and sides that can close due to the harsh winters, Beretta said California dairies are wide open.

Raudabaugh pointed out that some California dairies participate in conservation programs to help save the endangered tricolored blackbird by allowing them to nest in their forage fields. Dairy pastures on the North Coast also support Aleutian cackling geese.

Michael Payne, a veterinarian at the University of California, Davis, said how the virus is transferred and what factors promote it remain murky, but he thinks infection is occurring in a lot more than the estimated 10 percent to 15 percent of the milking herd. Some infected cattle may not show symptoms, he suggested.

Agriculture officials continue to stress the safety of pasteurized milk, as the process has been proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses. Jones said there remains “a lot of unknowns related to raw milk and human health risk from H5N1-affected cows.” She said if any of the state’s licensed raw milk dairies become affected, the department will work with them “to oversee the best way to assure consumers that appropriate safeguards are being taken.”

Until more is learned about H5N1 in cattle, Jones said dairy farmers should isolate and observe new additions to the herd. Keep them away from lactating cows for at least 21 days. The larger the group, the longer they should be isolated in case the virus is slow-moving without clinical signs. Put sick cows in the hospital pen right away and ensure the virus is not tracked to lactating cows. Pasteurize or safely discard hospital milk. Follow basic biosecurity, including cleaning boots, and handwashing.

“I also heard that vigilant water trough cleaning, even daily, has been a big help in limiting impacts,” she said. Jones also recommended talking to USDA Wildlife Services for ideas on how to reduce migrating waterfowl visitors.

NOW LEASING AT OUR NEW SENIOR COMMUNITY (62 and older) in Atascadero, CALIFORNIA GRAND MANOR APARTMENTS

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ESTAMOS ALQUILANDO EN NUESTRO

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• Instalaciones de area de lavandería en el lugar

Comuníquese con el número de arrendamiento hoy para obtener mas informacion (855) 452-8250 Esta institución es una proveedora de igualdad de oportunidades

PASO ROBLES

Live cooking show to support nonprofit “Central Coast Cooking Show,” a live cooking show at the Idler’s Home store in Paso Robles, featuring local food, beer, wine, hospitality, and vendors, will support the nonprofit organization Tree of Life. The next show will be on May 7, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Tree of Life is a local nonprofit organization that has helped to provide care for women and families in need for 35 years. They offer compassionate help for women facing pregnancy-related issues, and care for those going through an abortion, along with resources to assist women with some of the difficult decisions that stem from this.

Enjoy a five-course meal prepared within reach of the chefs. This interactive live cooking show demonstrates local food purveyors cooking right in front of your eyes alongside beautifully prepared table settings complete with local floral decor. This live cooking show provides information about the local food that’s being prepared while sipping on local wines and beer paired with each course. This month, they have the award-winning chef Trish Jacobs from Paso Catering Company preparing the meal.

Seating is limited; tickets are available at www.my805tix. com/e/central-coast-cookingshow-template-2/tickets.

Idler’s Home is located at 2361 Theatre Drive in Paso Robles.

Fundraiser to support Creston pool

The Creston Community Association (CCA) is gearing up for their annual pool fundraiser, inviting all to join in the fun at the “Fiesta de POOLooza” event.

Here are the details:

What: “Fiesta de POOLooza”

• When: Saturday, May 4, from 4 to 9 p.m.

• Where: The Creston Community Center, 5110 Swayze Street

Admission options include $25 for a single dinner ticket, $50 for a family dinner ticket (serving approximately two adults & two kids), or $300 for a VIP Table for eight (advanced purchase by April 27). Dinner will feature chicken bread, beans, salads, lemonade, or iced tea. Beer and wine will be available for purchase separately.

Entertainment for the evening

includes live musical entertainment, a silent auction, live dessert auction, and various other raffles. There will also be a Bounce House and games for the kids.

For inquiries, contact (805) 674-7296 or follow on Facebook: CCA Creston Pool Fund. Donations can be made via Venmo (Creston Pool@creston-pool) or mailed to CCA, PO Box 84, Creston. All donations are tax-deductible as CCA is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Paso Robles REC celebrating grand opening of Pump Track

Join the City of Paso Robles and the Paso Robles REC Foundation as they celebrate the grand opening of the new Pump Track at Barney Schwartz Park (2970 Union Road) in Paso Robles on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The celebration will commence with a ribbon-cutting program followed by riding demonstrations on the new track. There will be a bike safety booth, a BMX bike raffle from K-Man Cyclery, and food for purchase.

For more information about the BSP Pump Track, visit prcity.com/1184/BSP-PumpTrack RSVP for the event torecservices@prcity.com.

Paso Robles Library Foundation announces fundraising campaign for bookmobile

The Paso Robles Library Foundation announced the launch of a fundraising campaign on National Bookmobile Day, aiming to procure the Paso Robles City Library’s inaugural bookmobile.

The initiative, outlined in the library’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, marks a significant milestone in community outreach efforts. City Librarian Eric Lashley expressed enthusiasm, noting the bookmobile’s potential to extend services to all corners of Paso Robles.

Managed by the library’s outreach librarian and team, the bookmobile will cater to various demographics, including homebound seniors, at-risk populations, school systems, retirement communities, and remote residents.

Furthermore, the bookmobile will foster community engagement by facilitating partnerships with local nonprofit organizations. Alicia DiGrazia, president of the Paso Robles Library Foundation, hailed the initiative as a boon for the city.

The foundation aims to raise around $100,000 to cover the purchase of a bookmobile tran-

sit van, including essential equipment like shelving, a lift, and external branding. Interested donors can find more details on participation avenues via the Foundation’s website atprlibraryfoundation.com.

Miranda Lambert coming to Grandstand Arena for CMSF

The California Mid-State Fair announced three-time Grammy Award-winner Miranda Lambert will perform in concert on Wednesday, July 17. An opening act will be announced at a later date. The concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the Chumash Grandstand Arena at the Paso Robles Event Center and is part of the Michelob Ultra Concert Series.

Ticket prices for the show are $45, $60, $95, $115, and $140 (Pit, standing room only) and will go on sale Friday, April 12, starting at 10 a.m. to the general public. New this year is a program called “Local Fan of the Fair” which will allow registered local fans one-hour-early access to purchase tickets. For more information about this early access, visit MidStateFair. com.

Tickets are available for purchase exclusively through the California Mid-State Fair’s official website,MidStateFair.com. The Box Office warns against purchasing tickets from unofficial channels to ensure authenticity and validity.

The 2024 California Mid-State Fair takes place in Paso Robles and runs July 17 through July 28.

Probation/parole compliance check leads to six arrests

On Friday, April 12, the Paso Robles Police Department, along with the San Luis Obispo County Probation Department, California State Parole Office conducted a city-wide Probation/Parole Compliance Operation, focused on offender accountability and community safety. Twenty subjects were contacted based on their parole or probation status. Officers seized fentanyl (21 grams), psilocybin hallucinogens mushrooms (11 grams), weapons (brass knuckles), and ammunition.

The following subjects were arrested and were booked at the San Luis Obispo County Jail:

• Raul Munoz, 27, Paso Robles —Violation of parole.

• Sarah Dukes, 42, Paso Robles — Possession of controlled substance and violation of probation.

Maximo Hernandez, 41, Paso Robles — Felony evading, possession of a controlled substance, resisting arrest, violation of parole.

• Izaiah Coleman, 20, Paso Robles — Violation of post-release community

supervision (PRCS).

• Jesse Torres, 44, Paso Robles — Felon in possession of ammunition and violation of parole.

Tyler Whitener, 26, Paso Robles — Violation of parole.

ATASCADERO

Atascadero Cemetery District seeking Memorial Day volunteers

The Atascadero Cemetery District is seeking volunteers to help honor veterans by placing flags on their graves ahead of Memorial Day. The flag-placing event is scheduled for Thursday and Friday, May 23 and 24, between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. With over 750 flags to be placed throughout the cemetery, volunteers are crucial to this effort.

Those interested in volunteering should report to the cemetery office for instructions and flags. For inquiries, Cindy can be reached at (805) 466-1242.

Additionally, extra flags will be available over the weekend on the bench located in the office/ shop parking lot, ensuring any veteran’s grave without a flag can be properly honored.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Memorial Day Ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 27, starting at Section P by the flagpole.

Fraud Prevention with Bank of Sierra

Learn how to protect yourself from fraud.

Date: Thursday, May 23 at 2 a.m.

For more information on these programs, contact Sally LaPorte for children’s programs and Melanie Bales for adult programs.

Atascadero Police: Illegal motorcycle riding poses risks in Salinas Riverbed

Illegal motorcycle riding in the Salinas Riverbed has become a pressing concern, prompting an urgent notice from the Atascadero Police Department.

In recent months, unauthorized motorcycle activity in the riverbed has surged, posing grave risks to riders and the community. These actions violate local and state laws, endanger public safety, and threaten the fragile ecosystem.

The Atascadero Police Department strongly condemns this reckless behavior and urges residents and visitors to refrain from illegal motorcycle riding.

The consequences are: Safety hazard: Riding motorcycles in the riverbed poses serious risks to riders, pedestrians, and nearby residents due to rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents and

injuries.

• Environmental damage: Illegal riding harms the delicate ecosystem, causing soil erosion, damaging vegetation, and disrupting wildlife habitats, leading to long-term environmental degradation.

• Noise pollution: Motorcycle engine noise disrupts the area’s tranquility, affecting residents and wildlife, diminishing the quality of life for all.

The City of Atascadero is committed to collaborating with law enforcement and stakeholders to address this issue swiftly. Residents are urged to report illegal motorcycle riding to the Atascadero Police Department at (805) 461-5051.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

PG&E Project in San Luis Obispo to increase electric reliability for customers

This week, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) crews will begin a major project in San Luis Obispo that will increase electric reliability for customers and support several new projects that require more electricity. These projects include a large residential and commercial subdivision known as San Luis Ranch, the expansion of the city’s wastewater treatment plant, and electric vehicle charging facilities being installed by Tesla and the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority.

In San Luis Obispo, crews will be installing a new distribution line to eliminate forecasted powerline overloads in warmer months on existing circuits as these new projects increase energy demand. A total of 69 poles will be replaced on Broad Street and High Street, which will be taller and thicker to support the larger conductor lines being installed. There will also be several new poles added. Additional underground work will occur on Higuera Street near the intersections of Pacific, Walker, and Bianchi streets.

The funding for this project, and others like it, comes from PG&E’s General Rate Case (GRC), which the California Public Utilities Commission approved in November, to support investments in reliability projects that strengthen the electric system for customers.

This project, scheduled to end mid-November, will require intermittent lane closures along several roads in the construction areas mentioned above.

Full traffic control will be in place throughout construction with a possibility of temporary detours in narrower sections of High Street.

“We are proud to deliver safe,

clean, and reliable energy for our hometowns. A major project like this one in San Luis Obispo ensures we can continue to deliver for our hometowns and help meet the ambitious clean energy goals of both the City of San Luis Obispo and the State of California,” Teresa Alvarado, South Bay and Central Coast Regional Vice President, said. Land Conservancy of SLO County partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County is bringing a special hike of Santa Rita Ranch to volunteer mentors and their mentees, in partnership with The Land Conservancy of SLO County.

A benefit of being a volunteer mentor and mentored child with Big Brothers Big Sisters, the event will be held in May — a private hike around the beautiful rolling hills of the ranch. The attendees — volunteer mentors (“Bigs”) and their mentees (“Littles”) and the Littles’ families — will then enjoy a lunch with a beautiful view of the lake.

This event is sponsored by the SLO County Board of Supervisors and The Land Conservancy of SLO County.

This event is an example of the many benefits of mentorships with Big Brothers Big Sisters’ programs. Having access to special outings, like this special hike, is one of the reasons children who are mentored are statistically more likely to graduate from high school, attend college or trade school, and have positive relationships with their community.

Executive Director Stacy Salame said, “this event is an exclusive opportunity for our volunteer mentors and the mentored children in our programs to get outside for a hike in the fresh air, which is great for their hearts and muscles. Plus, being outdoors can help reduce stress, improve their mood, and feel a sense of community.”

Supervisors choose new county administrative officer

Following an extensive nationwide search, SLO County supervisors have offered the role of county administrative officer (CAO) to Matt Pontes, a Cal Poly graduate with county administrative experience in Shasta and Santa Barbara counties as well as service in Kern County. Most recently, Pontes was the director of wildfire and forest ecology at Sierra Pacific Industries, where he worked with private, tribal, state, and federal agencies to combat destructive wildfires and safeguard ecosystems across California, Oregon, and Washington.

“We conducted an extensive search to ensure we found the right person for the job, and we were fortunate to have multiple highly qualified candidates to choose from,” remarked Board Chair Debbie Arnold. “Matt’s extensive background in county leadership, coupled with his genuine understanding of our community’s challenges and the innovative solutions he presented, made him a standout choice to lead San Luis Obispo

Reflecting on his impending role, Pontes said San Luis Obispo has always held a special place in his heart and life. The opportunity to serve as CAO represents a profound chance to give back and shape a future defined by resilience, transparency, and prosperity. Furthermore, Pontes

RECORD

Bob’s grandfather, Harold J. Wilkins, was E.G. Lewis’s bookkeeper in the early 1920’s. Mr. Lewis was the founder of Atascadero. Harold sent Bob’s father, Bob Wilkins, Sr., and his uncle, Joe Wilkins, to Cal Poly to learn the printing trade. Bob Wilkins, Sr., and Joe Wilkins worked at various local newspapers and eventually landed a job with the Atascadero News in the Printery building. During this period, Bob helped with multiple tasks like sweeping and putting type away; he emptied the wastebasket for Marguerite Travis. She was an editor for Atascadero News and the author of Birth of Atascadero. Bob would

reprint the book in the 1960s for the Atascadero Historical Society. The newspaper moved out of the Printery building around 1945 with the help of Bob’s Dad and Uncle. After the move, they started their own business, Wilkins Studio. Bob Jr.’s dad continued his passion for photography while Joe was proficient with the letterpress. On occasion, Bob Jr. helped his uncle with the print shop, and in 1951 took over the printing business.

Bob’s mother, Helen Reynolds Wilkins, arrived in Atascadero around 1915 with her mother, Emma, and father, Stephen Reynolds, along with brother Cliff. Stephen and Emma ran the Eaglet Mercantile, where the Moose Lodge is currently located. Cliff eventually became the Bellhop Captain at the Atascadero La Plaza. When Bob Sr. and Helen Wilkins wanted to go out on the town, they would leave young Bob Jr. with his uncle Cliff, who would keep him in room number one for the evening while he did his bellhop duties.

the love of his life, Bonnie Lyn Gates, a fourth-generation North County resident, and they married in 1952. Bob and Bonnie grew the printing business known as Wilkins Creative Printing while starting their family.

Bob was involved in many organizations throughout Atascadero and San Luis Obispo County and had numerous accomplishments:

President of the Businessman Association in 1961 Received an award for being the outstanding president of the Jaycees in 1962 and 1963.

Businessman of the Year in 1971 and 1974

He served as the first mayor of Atascadero in 1979, served on the city council for five years, and helped guide the city’s formation.

Chamber Citizen of the Month in 1976

He was president of the Board of Directors of Atascadero Main Street in 2003.

Colony Days Royalty in 2003

Atascadero Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year in 2004

San Luis Obispo County Cattlemen’s Association dedicated the 18th annual Cattlemen’s Western Art Show and Sale to Bob and Bonnie in 2011. Bob and Bonnie supported the Cattlemen Western Art Show for over 30 years.

Bob supported Hospice of San Luis Obispo County and donated his time and printing. In addition, he supported the Faces of Freedom Memorial by providing printing for them. In October 2023, Bob was named Honorary Scoutmaster BSA Atascadero Historical Troop 51

nize Bob walking around the community. In his nineties, Bob was still walking two miles a day.

With all of Bob’s accomplishments and involvement in the community, he became known as Mr. Atascadero.

Robert J. Wilkins, Jr., passed away on February 25, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family. He is preceded in death by nephew

DEATHS

HAROLD “HAL” WILLIAM BELCH, 79, of Arroyo Grande passed away on April 14th 2024.

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

JOE BRAZER MITCHELL, 92, of Arroyo Grande passed away on April 12th 2024.

Services are in the

Ricky Landis, sister Sally Sylvia, and wife Bonnie. He is survived by his sister Denise Crabtree of Shelbyville, Tennessee, sister Nancy

Kerr of Atascadero, daughter Kerrie and son-in-law

In 1949, Bob joined the Naval Reserves and served for three years. He then met

Gregg Stoulil passed away at age 81 on March 28, 2024.

Gregg bravely battled Pulmonary Fibrosis for decades and has now joined his brothers Gordon “Gordy” Stoulil and George Stoulil. Greg continued to bless everyone who knew him with his grand smile despite his battles.

Gregg was born in Portland, Oregon, in 1943, grew up in Shadow Hills, California, and

A life-long member of the Chamber of Commerce

settled in Paso Robles, California, in 1985, where he spent most of his time exploring and pursuing many of his creative ideas and dreams.

Gregg was an amazing and proud father to his son, Aris Stoulil, who was the highlight of his life.

Gregg’s passions included singing and listening to opera, singing at St Rose Church and Chapel on the Hill, participating in the local community

Bob enjoyed many aspects of his life, including his passion for photography, in which he captured the realism of his subjects. While Bob was busy with his photography, Bonnie discovered her natural talent with her watercolor and acrylic paintings. Their interest in art took them on many exciting and fun travels in their motorhome with family and friends. Bob always had his camera, and Bonnie had her paintbrushes! As many locals know, Bob was passionate about his roses and garden. Bob was well known by many citizens who would recog -

theaters, gold prospecting, cooking cultural delights, and bringing many ideas to life.

Gregg loved his family with all his heart, including his adopted family, which includes nine grandchildren and their Grandma Carol Burbank.

Gregg was the oldest of eight siblings. He is survived by his son Aris Stoulil, twin sister Frances Mary Thomas, his brothers Donald Arthur Stoulil and Richard Donny Stoulil,

Tom McNerlin of Mesquite, Nevada, daughter Joyce Wilkins of Atascadero, son

Jim Wilkins of Creston, and daughter Jane and son-in-law

Bob Hilty of Santa Barbara. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on June 8, 2024, at the Atascadero Elks Lodge. Doors open at 1:00 p.m., and the service starts promptly at 1:30 p.m. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Wilshire Hospice, 277 South St., Suite R, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 ROBERT

sister Suzanne Marie Snyder, and many nieces and nephews. Rosary and Mass will be held on April 23, 2024, at 2:00 pm at St. Rose of Lima, 820 Creston Rd. Paso Robles, Ca.

In Loving Memory

emphasized his commitment to fostering alignment and collaboration among the seven cities, community nonprofits, leaders, and private entities. “It’s imperative that we work together to address pressing issues such as homelessness, affordable housing, infrastructure improvement, and longterm financial stability. By standing united, we can build a stronger, more vibrant future for our community.”

During his tenure as Shasta County executive officer, Pontes navigated similar challenges. His focus on public safety and innovative strategies aimed at enhancing emergency management response, mental health services, and infrastructure development underscores his dedication to addressing the diverse needs of the community.

In his role with Santa Barbara County, he partnered with the sheriff and led a group of dedicated individuals, staff, and partners to deliver a groundbreaking rehabilitative jail facility model, showcasing commit-

ment to progressive approaches in criminal justice. Additionally, over 18 months in his delegated role of Emergency Operations Center director and director of recovery for the Thomas Fire and Montecito’s debris flow, he demonstrated his adept leadership in crisis management, compassion, and community recovery efforts.

Pontes earned his Bachelor of Science degree in forestry and natural resources from Cal Poly, where he specialized in wildfire and sustainable land management practices. Pending approval of his contract on Tuesday, his first day on the job will be Monday, April 29.

Pontes says he is looking forward to working alongside Acting CAO Rebecca Campbell, who will resume her duties as assistant CAO.

Drone mapping happening this week for broadband expansion

Starting Saturday, April 13, through Saturday, April 20 (weather permitting), people in parts of Oceano and Arroyo Grande may notice drones flying about 200 to 3,000 feet over-

head as part of a broadband installation project in the community.

In addition to the drones, crews will be conducting safety checks and taking measurements on the ground. Work will be conducted between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. with minimal sound disruption.

The data captured by this operation only includes utility structures (poles and wires), roads, sidewalks, and curbs and is only used for mapping purposes. Data collection using drones and aircraft greatly increases how quickly this broadband installation/expansion project can be completed.

The engineering survey work is sponsored by the County of San Luis Obispo to generate construction-ready network designs for 40 miles of fiber to bring broadband into neighborhoods in and around Oceano and the Cypress Ridge area of Arroyo Grande.

Upcoming construction impacts near new parking structure

Work on the Cultural Arts District Parking Structure is ramping up quickly as the city set the stage for

the pedestrian-friendly Cultural Arts District. They will be starting dry utility infrastructure work to place underground overhead utility lines and community members can expect traffic impacts in the area beginning next week.

Dry utility work will begin on Dana and Nipomo streets, work will move up Nipomo Street and make its way to Palm Street. This is anticipated to be complete in the summer.

During construction, SLO Transit riders can expect to see detours on SLO Transit Routes 1B, 2A, 2B, and Old SLO Trolley Service. Detours are expected to be in effect from April 2024 through August 2025; however, these dates are subject to change.

The affected routes and impacted stops include:

1B — Nipomo at Higuera and Marsh at Broad

• 2A — Nipomo at Higuera and Nipomo at Pismo

• 2B — Nipomo at Higuera and Nipomo at Pismo

• Old SLO Trolley — Nipomo at Higuera, Marsh at Broad, Marsh

at Chorro, Marsh at Osos, and Santa Rosa at Higuera.

Commuters can expect flagging, lane shifting, soil-hauling trucks coming in and out of the area, road closures with detours, and night work to minimize traffic impacts during the day.

After the dry utilities installation, we plan to start the installation of wet utilities, like water and storm water pipelines.

Throughout the remainder of the project, the city encourages alternate routes and recommend allowing extra travel time when traveling in the area.

The Cultural Arts District Parking Structure, located on the corner of Palm, Nipomo, and Monterey streets, will offer 397 parking spots, 41 EV chargers, 32 bike racks, and solar panels for enhanced accessibility on the block.

The parking structure extends structured parking to the southern portion of downtown and opens new economic opportunities in this portion of downtown.

For more information about this project, please visitslocity.org/ CulturalArtsParking.

WILLIAM GREGGORY STOULIL 1943-2024

Happy Spring, I also hope we are all acclimated to Daylight Saving Time by now. April brings showers, flowers, green hills (again this year), and capricious weather. In San Miguel, it also brings Sagebrush Days, which CIRCLE celebrates our history and pioneer spirit.

San Miguel Sagebrush Days

This year’s Sagebrush Days Parade, sponsored by the San Miguel Fireman’s Association, will kick off on Saturday, April 20, at 12 p.m. on Mission Street. It proceeds south to Father Reginald Park by the Mission and returns through town. It’s the only parade in the area where the crowd can see and applaud both sides of the horses, floats, vintage cars, and other entries. The San Miguel Lions Club will be doing their popular barbeque downtown. This year marks the 33rd parade, which was founded in 1991 when Alan Belden gathered a large group of enthusiastic townspeople together to plan the event.

the Fire Station. Following the parade, members of the Model A Club will gather to display their beautifully restored antique “machines” (an old-fashioned term for early model automobiles) at the Historic Rios-Caledonia Adobe, just south of Mission San Miguel. The cars will be parked along a strip of the original Highway 101, which was built through San Miguel around 1915. You are invited to take a close look at the cars and learn about their history.

unable to continue on the site, it was abandoned and left to destruction by vandalism and the elements. People who wanted to save the historical site appealed to the county.

Entry forms are available on the website and at the Fire Station, 1150 Mission St., during business hours. If you’d like to help, let them know at

The Adobe was built in 1835 by the Salinan Indians and the Library was built in the 1920s when the property was purchased and improved by the last private owner, Charles Dorries. However, in 1952, when he was

In 1964, the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors purchased the property, a total of 6 acres, and the buildings. They created a county park with restrooms, a large parking lot, and sunny spots to have picnics. The buildings were carefully restored. In 1968, the Friends of the Adobes was formed to promote the restoration and maintenance of the Adobe for the new museum in the original structure and the building that now houses a research library.

April 13 is not a holiday; nonetheless, it is a special day. It is the birthday of Thomas Jefferson, one of our country’s founding fathers.

Tom was born on Saturday, April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. Freckled, sandy-haired, rather tall and shy, Tom was never comfortable as a public speaker. Instead, he expressed his eloquence through his pen. Serving in both the Virginia House of Burgesses and the Continental Congress, Tom contributed his written words to the American cause. The Continental Congress appointed Tom, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston to draft a declaration of independence. His fellow committee members delegated Tom the task of writing the document.

When Jefferson devised the Declaration of Independence; in the first part, he wrote that all

men have rights. These included “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” He wrote that the colonies were no longer bound to England and that governments should derive their power from the people, not a king.

With its soaring rhetoric about all men being “created equal,” the Declaration of Independence gave a powerful voice to the values behind the American Revolution. What isn’t widely known, however, is that Jefferson’s draft of the declaration included a passage that condemned slavery as one of the many evils foisted upon the colonies by the British crown. The passage was cut from the final wording by the Continental Congress.

One thing that many Americans do not realize is that the Declaration of Independence became important to other nations. Our founding fathers’ bravery made America a role model for the world.

After America’s independence, Tom succeeded Benjamin Franklin as U.S. minister to France. Jefferson’s posting meant he could not attend the Constitutional Convention, but that didn’t keep him from advocating for including a bill of rights and presidential term limits.

He returned to America in 1789 and accepted an appointment from President George Washington to become our nation’s first secretary of state. In the presidential election of 1796, Jefferson was a reluctant candidate and ran against John Adams. He received the second highest amount of votes, which according to the law at the time, made him vice president.

Jefferson ran against Adams again in 1800. However, when the electoral votes were counted, Thomas defeated John Adams. However, the election caused an uproar because the ballot did not distinguish between the presidential and vice-presidential candidates. Jefferson received the same number of electoral votes as his running mate Aaron Burr.

The House of Representatives broke the tie voting Jefferson into office. In order to avoid this in the future, Congress proposed the Twelfth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which required separate voting for president and vice president. The amendment was ratified in 1804.

Jefferson had the honor of the first presidential inauguration held in Washington, D.C. Instead of riding in a carriage,

With all its trials and tribulations, this year’s crop could likely go down as a “Vintage of a Lifetime.” After the record rainfall this year and a relatively cool summer, one of the coldest in the last dozen years, many varietals stayed on the vines for up to a month longer than usual. This allowed the fruit to “hang” on the vines and gain complexity, smooth tastes, and lower sugars because of the lack of sunshine and heat, resulting in lower alcohol. The cool, wet winter flushed out the accumulated salts from the last several years of drought and put the vines to sleep without stress. It also helped the growers that there were very few water delivery restrictions, so, for the first time in a while, the vines had all the irrigation water they needed to thrive.

However, the wet winter did not make it easy for the growers. Heavy May Grey, June Gloom, No-sky July, and Fogest made for little sunshine this summer, and it bunched up the normal scattered-out delivery of winegrapes by varietals resulting

in a late heavy delivery of grapes varietals on top of each other. This led to tank shortages, which would have been empty after a week or two of fermentation, ready for the next varietal’s turn. It also screwed up the harvest labor for the need of availability of more crews to pick the grapes almost all at once instead of a long steady late summer/fall pick.

Now, with the time and a half overtime payroll for farm workers, most growers do not want to work on Saturdays but were forced to pick on weekends and longer days and nights because the wineries demanded so. That made for an unbudgeted expense to the harvest. By the way, checking with my past vineyard foremen, they don’t like the overtime requirement because they work as much as 20 hours a week less, resulting in a smaller monthly income. Also, farmers, during the growing season, needed to cut overtime costs and had to hire more workers at 40 hours to do the job.

Farming is not a five-day 9-to-5 job!

The wet, persistent, foggy growing season brought on a historic powdery mildew problem, causing the growers to spray much more often than usual to control the problem. Fortunately, they are not the caustic fungicides used in the past. They are much safer, and many are organic in nature, such as organic mineral oil we had used

Jefferson broke with tradition and walked to and from the ceremony.

As president, Jefferson slashed Army and Navy budgets; eliminated the tax on whiskey, which was very unpopular on the western frontier; and reduced the national debt by a third. He also sent a naval squadron to quell the Barbary pirates, who were harassing American maritime commerce in the Mediterranean.

One of the most significant achievements of Jefferson’s first administration was the purchase of the Louisiana Territory from France for $15 million. At more than 820,000 square miles, the acquisition effectively doubled the size of the United States. Jefferson commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to explore the uncharted land all the way to the Pacific Ocean. The expedition provided valuable information about the geography, American Indian tribes, and animal and plant life of the western part of the continent.

In 1804, Jefferson was re-elected president. During his second term, Jefferson tried to keep America out of Europe’s Napoleonic Wars. However, Great Britain, desperate to

for years, the same oil you put on a baby’s butt, which smothers the mildew pores. The same is true for control of the frequent problem of mealy bugs and aphids with open pores on their backs, unlike hardback ladybugs and the like, which also are smothered by the oil. I am sure some of you had to use Neems or other safe oils for your plants this summer for mildew control. The local Sauvignon Blanc crop was a disaster because of its thin skin and the heavy mildew hit. Pinot Noir, also with thin skin, had its problems to boot. Cabernet Sauvignon’s thick skin makes itself almost bulletproof. It was a blessing that with a cool, wet year, there were no usual big forest fires that would have tainted the grapes with smoke this year, like in 2020 and later.

The yields will come in as an average crop year with excellent quality but large compared to the last three short years. It is estimated that the crop globally is down considerably, as much as 10 percent. You would think this would be a good thing for the American wine industry, but even with the previous light crop years here, there is too much worldwide wine in the bottle or in bulk because of the slowdown in drinking wine. There is a shift in demographics because the younger generations are not so interested in wine and drinking in general versus my generation’s war babies, and the

The library is open on Fridays from noon to 3 p.m. When the buildings are closed during these hours, it is generally because there are not many docents, even for such short hours. If you enjoy history and talking to people, leave a message at (805) 467-3357 to volunteer.

Lynne Schmitz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at editor@13stars.media

The museum is open from noon to 3 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. If you haven’t visited in a while, there has been ongoing work and interesting improvements, including a short video of San Miguel and Adobe history and installation of an El Camino Bell.

Through the Grapevine: Vintage of a Lifetime On his birthday, remember Thomas Jefferson’s

keep its naval ships crewed, began stopping American ships and seizing crewmen. Despite Jefferson’s attempts to maintain neutrality, the United States ended up going to war against Britain in 1812. Jefferson chose not to run for a third term in 1808. He retired from politics to his home Monticello, in Virginia. In the final 17 years of his life, Jefferson’s major accomplishment was founding the University of Virginia. The university was the last of three contributions by which Jefferson wished to be remembered: freedom from Britain, freedom of conscience, and freedom maintained through education.

In 1815, Jefferson sold his 6,700-volume personal library to Congress to replace books lost during the War of 1812, when the British burned the Capitol. Jefferson’s books became the foundation of the Library of Congress.

Jefferson died at age 83 at Monticello on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Coincidentally, John Adams, Jefferson’s friend, former rival, and fellow signer of the Declaration of Independence, died the same day. Jefferson was buried at

following boomers, who are the main wine-buying generations and dying off. Distributor sales to stores are down 7 percent this year, and direct-to-consumer winery sales are down 8 percent as of August this year.

At the end of harvest, there were extra tons left on the vine because wineries had enough, even when growers offered just to be paid harvest costs because they would have to be picked anyway or have rotting grape disease problems in the vineyards that would overwinter and cause problems next year. It is estimated that maybe 14 percent of the crop was rejected for quality (mildew and rot), waiting too long for a delivery time, grown without a contract — which is not a good idea, and growers completed their contracted tonnage, and the wineries didn’t want any more. Worldwide, it is a different story. Italy, France, and Spain had a long heat wave and other problems cutting wine deliveries. Argentina is a mess, where some vineyards have been abandoned because of a tough market and high inflation. Australia is in a trade war fight with its biggest customer, China. Italy is the biggest wine producer, followed by France, then Spain, the USA is fourth, Australia is fifth, Chile is sixth, and Argentina is seventh. The USA export business is still good for more expensive high-quality

Monticello. However, due to the significant debt the former president had accumulated during his life, his mansion, furnishing, and slaves were sold at auction following his death. Monticello was eventually acquired by a nonprofit organization, which opened it to the public in 1954.

Tom’s memory has been tarnished some in recent years, as a result of the fact he had a relationship with one of the slave women of his household, after the passing of his wife. But, we need to keep a perspective on what happens in folks’ private lives and not let them overshadow the grand accomplishments in an individual’s life. All the good and bad in our lives are the things that make us human, even our leaders past and present — even in ourselves.

I do think it is too bad, that as a nation we have forgotten one of Jefferson’s key beliefs about our country: “The maxim of buying nothing without the money in our pockets to pay for it would make of our country one of the happiest on Earth.”

John Copeland is an independent opinion columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email him at pigdog13@mac.com

wines, but it is flat because Australia, Chile, and others are dumping wine on the markets as low as $2 per gallon to help solve their woes.

Compounding problems include high-interest rates, the aforementioned time-and-a-half overtime wages, the severe scarcity of labor (where are all these new arrivals crossing the border who are potential farm workers, many with agriculture backgrounds — guessing they don’t need to work with living off the government and our tax dollars?), rising vineyard costs for replanting and construction of wineries and farm buildings financing is up 30 percent, lower winegrape prices, all leading to lower profit margins, saying there is a profit, for wineries and growers. Then there is the changing climate, making places like Napa Valley potentially becoming too hot, like the Central Valley, to grow quality grapes, to be offset with new expensive plantings in cooler areas once too cold for grapes. A good thing for consumers because of the oversupply is that much of this year’s great quality will end up in wine under $20/bottle, getting “more bang for the buck,” with whites showing up in stores around this time next year.

John Salisbury is an independent columnist

John Copeland COLUMNIST

Lynne Schmitz COLUMNIST

John Salisbury COLUMNIST

Third annual SafetyFest returns to City Park on June 1

Event features emergency, disaster, and safety preparedness training exercises and more from expert

PASO ROBLES — On Saturday, June 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. PASOSafe™, The City of Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services, Police Department, and North SLO County CERT return with the Third Annual SafetyFest; offering emergency and disaster training exercises, demonstrations and hands-on learning activities by first responders and the area’s top safety professionals.

SafetyFest, is the only event in the North County that offers compre-

hensive safety expertise from city, county, state, federal, nonprofit, and private entities in one place.

Earthquakes, fires, floods, tsunamis, emergency and disaster simulations, crime prevention, motor vehicle safety, cybersecurity, mental health,

Elk’s Lodge #2364 makes donation to local nonprofit

Payment of $850 going to From the Heart Animal Sanctuary

PASO ROBLES — The Paso Robles Elks Lodge #2364 has made a donation of $850 to From the Heart Animal Sanctuary. The Elks Lodge remains committed to supporting local communities and organizations that make a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.

The donation, which was presented by Past Exalted Ruler Carson Landreth to Leslie and Joe Thomas of From the Heart Animal Sanctuary, will provide vital support for the sanctuary’s efforts to care for and protect animals in their care. From providing medical treatment to offering shelter and love, the sanctuary’s mission is to ensure the well-being of animals that have been neglected or abandoned.

and personal safety exercises are featured in Downtown City Park.

“SafetyFest is a fun and engaging way to bring everyone in the community to learn and participate,” said Fire Captain/Paramedic John Pricket of Paso Robles Fire and

Emergency Services. “Each year we expand our educational and training exercises for all aspects of fire prevention, emergency and disaster preparation and response.”

Proceeds support the North San Luis Obispo Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), a public beneficiary program that educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may impact our community and trains them in basic disaster response skills.

“This event helps our local CERT program expand our training classes and increase our base of volunteers trained to assist in an emergency,” said John Spooner, volunteer program manager of North SLO County CERT.

“This year, we will provide additional disaster preparedness train-

ing for the public. In addition to the 20-hour CERT Basic training classes we will offer pet safety and other specialty emergency and disaster training,” he added. “Winter storms the past two seasons increased the need for CERT response, so we are increasing the number of qualified team members. This will require the purchase of additional equipment, more supplemental training classes, and additional certified instructors.”

SafetyFest exhibit spaces are available in the park for $100. Nonprofit spaces are $50. Safety-related organizations and businesses are encouraged to submit an exhibitor application. Bilingual exhibitor entries are encouraged and supported. For exhibitor applications, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, visit safetyfest.live or contact Mark Elterman at (805) 305-5584.

San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club’s Wildflower Century returns on April 20

Event supports annual donation of $50K for various cycling events and programs throughout the county

CRESTON — The San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club announced the return of its annual Wildflower Century bike ride on Saturday, April 20, in Creston. Over 900 cyclists will embark on routes ranging from 35 to 80 miles, traversing picturesque landscapes between Creston, Pozo, and Shell Creek Road.

This year’s event will see the participation of approximately 12 support vehicles and two CHP Officers stationed strategically along the routes to ensure the safety of all participants. Creston will serve as the focal point, hosting rest stops and providing essential support services for riders.

The Elks Lodge #2364 has a long history of community service and charitable giving, and this donation to From the Heart Animal Sanctuary is just one example of their dedication to making a positive impact in Paso Robles and beyond. By supporting organizations like the sanctuary, the Elks Lodge continues to demonstrate the power of compassion and kindness in creating a better world for all beings.

The Elks Lodge #2364 and From the Heart Animal Sanctuary are grateful for the support of the Paso Robles community and look forward to continuing their work in making a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.

As the event coincides with increased cyclist traffic on local roads, drivers are kindly reminded to exercise caution and be mindful of cyclists. The Wildflower Century emphasizes safe riding practices, adherence to traffic laws, and respectful interaction with local residents.

The Wildflower Century is not only a celebration of cycling and the beauty of the region’s wildflowers but also serves as a platform for community support. Proceeds from the event contribute to the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club’s annual donation of $50,000 to Bike SLO County and various cycling events and programs throughout the county. For more information about the Wildflower Century and to register, visit slobc.org/wildflower/.

Beaver mural to be revealed Saturday at Charles Paddock Zoo

Chumash artist John Khus, who created the mural, will unveil it with SLO Beaver Brigade

ATASCADERO — Beavers and their central ecological role in water and in culture will be celebrated on Saturday, April 20, at 10:30 a.m. at the Charles Paddock Zoo at 9100 Morro Road in Atascadero, with the unveiling of a mural by Chumash artist John Khus. This mural has been made possible through the California Coastal Commission WHALE TAIL® grants program and the San Luis Obispo Beaver Brigade in collaboration with the Charles Paddock Zoo and the City of Atascadero. The Coastal Commission WHALE TAIL® grants support experiential education and stewardship of the California coast and its watersheds.

The art of John Khus has been recognized by Chumash leaders as “striking, beautiful, unique, carrying the voices of our ancestral

artists with whom he has walked all his life.”

He has exhibited in galleries throughout the Central Coast and taught art and cultural heritage at the 2023 inaugural Chumash Heritage and Marine Science Camp in Oceano. His original artwork resulted in the “Tomol Rides Wishtoyo” mural in Cambria, which was recently presented with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.

“The beaver are my relatives, as are all the animals, plants, land, water, and air,” Khus said. “So, the importance of this mural is the same as someone might give to a family portrait or ancestral painting.”

The mural unveiling will include remarks by representatives from the SLO Beaver Brigade, and the artist.

“The mural represents the beavers tending the waters from the Salinas River all the way to the ocean in Monterey Bay,” said Audrey Taub of the SLO Beaver Brigade. “I love the representation of all of the life forms that depend on the beavers. The three young beavers in the center of

it all are just innocently doing their job of being beavers, unaware that all of the other critters around the ponds need them in order to live.”

About the SLO Beaver Brigade

The SLO Beaver Brigade, a local organization fiscally sponsored by Ecologistics, Inc., began in 2020 to raise awareness around beavers in San Luis Obispo County and the work beavers do to replenish the groundwater, provide fire refugia and increase the quality and quantity of water in the creeks and rivers. The Beaver Brigade also brings process-based restoration techniques to SLO County, along with beaver management tools to allow for people and beavers to share habitat.

The SLO Beaver Brigade focuses on education and strong public participation in watershed stewardship through river cleanups, citizen science surveys, tours, public art, and trail signage. The SLO Beaver Brigade frequently offers presentations and tours of beaver habitat on a donation basis to the public. To learn more about the Beaver Brigade, sign up for a tour or donate to their efforts, visit slobeaverbrigade.com.

The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to the Annual Awards Dinner and Gala at Rava Wines on April 20. This event is the Chamber’s largest and most prestigious event of the year! Celebrate the accomplishments of the local business community and those who make a difference.

the week of the event. Printed map will be available in the April 18 issue of Atascadero News.

ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER & GALA

RAVA WINES + EVENTS 5 p.m.

APRIL 20-21

WINE 4 PAWS TO BENEFIT WOODS HUMANE SOCIETY

With each purchase from over 80 wine, cider, and olive oil producers throughout SLO County, 10% of sales will go to Woods Humane Society. It is a win-win helping local homeless animals all the while supporting local businesses. For a map of participating vendors and more

Studios on the Park to host ‘Poetic Prints’

Art exhibition is in partnership with Central Coast Printmakers and local poets

PASO ROBLES —

Studios on the Park will feature an art exhibition in partnership with Central Coast Printmakers and local poets. The show, called “Poetic Prints,” will be held from May 3 to June 30 in the Atrium Gallery. Each piece in the show will be displayed alongside the poem that inspired the art. Central Coast Printmakers used some of their personal favorite poetry selections, as well as recruited local writers to submit poems for the exhibit. The public is invited to a Poetry Reading on Sunday, May 19, from 2 to 3 p.m. and a Printmaking Demonstration with Barbara and Rosey Rosenthal on Saturday, May 18, from 2 to 4 p.m. The public is also invited to the opening reception of the exhibition on May

4, with another reception on June 1, both from 6 to 9 p.m.

Studios on the Park (Studios) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a creative, educational, and transformational experience to enhance understanding and appreciation of the visual arts. Studios on the Park realizes its commitment by making the creative process available to the public. Studios engages and inspires the San Luis Obispo County community and its visitors with a unique open studio environment. Studios feature artists working in a variety of media, educational programs for children and adults, and quality exhibitions by regional, national, and international artists. A gift from the Up Front Gallery is also a gift to Studios — all purchases support the arts programming for children, teens, and adults.

“Poetic Prints” can be seen Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 4 p.m. and Friday & Saturday from 12 to 9 p.m. For more information on this exhibition, visit studiosonthepark.org/events/ poetic-prints/

CONTACT INFO

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

TREE OF LIFE Pregnancy Care Center

WOMEN. HEALTH. LIFE

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

Donations: We’re grateful that all of our support comes from generous individuals here in our community.

Friends of the Paso Robles Library

Support the Library through a Friends of the Library membership, starting as low as $10/year. The Friends of the Library appreciates donations, which are either added to the Library’s collection or used to generate considerable funds toward the purchase of new books, library materials, programs, services, etc. Support the Library in a 100% volunteer-run retail environment. We are seeking volunteers to assist with Gift Shop sales, book donation sorting, and to provide book sale support.

Due to limited storage space and staff, we are only able to accept two boxes or two bags of materials per household per day. Cash donations always welcome!

BOARD MEETINGS: Call (805) 237-3870 for information

CONTACT INFO

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

Operation Surf

aim to inspire injured military and veterans to seek wellness in all aspects of their lives while providing the necessary resources, tools, and peer-to-peer support to continue this mindset indefinitely. By staying true to our core values of care, inclusion, commitment, integrity, and communication, we change participants’ lives – one wave at a time.

Local Veteran Opportunities: OS3- Three Month Surf Program Application is Open! Apply via the website www.operationsurf.org

OS3 is a three-month, locally-focused program that provides veterans with an opportunity to bond through surfing, keep each other motivated, and move forward in life with a new perspective. Focused on four key pillars of mentorship, unity, family, and the peace of surfing, Operation Surf inspires to make lasting change in the lives of our community.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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

Atascadero Elks Lodge

ATASCADERO LODGE NO. 2733

Since 1987, the Atascadero Elks have contributed over $1,000,000 to local community-based programs, non-profits, youth groups, local sports teams, programs for handicapped and needy children, patriotic programs, veterans’ programs and many, many community activities.

CONTACT INFO

1516

Camino Real,  Atascadero, Ca 93422

www.elks2733.org

CONTACT INFO

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

Our mission as Elks is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize our belief in God; to promote the welfare of our community; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and to cultivate good fellowship.

We have a full calendar of events and activities for our members.

To learn more or to join us please contact us at (805)466-3557, visit the Lodge at 1516 El Camino Real, follow-us on Facebook or visit our website at: elks2733.org.

LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

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

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

Tiene un vehiculo no deseado? Donelo a Patriotic Hearts! Recogida rápida y gratuita en los 50 estados. Patriotic Hearts ofrece programas para ayudar a los veteranos a encontrar trabajo o iniciar su propio negocio. Llama ahora: 1-844244-5441 (24/7) (Cal-SCAN)

Get your deduction ahead of the year-end! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844491-2884 today! (CalSCAN)

Only. Any condition. Top $ paid! PLEASE LEAVE MESSAGE 1-707-339-5994. Email: Porscherestoration@ yahoo.com Cal-SCAN

DONATE YOUR CAR TO KIDS Fast Free Pickup – Running or Not - 24 Hour Response - Maximum Tax Donation – Help Find Missing Kids! Call 1-888-491-1453. (CalSCAN)

Donating your vehicle? Get more! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $200 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today. CALL 1-844-491-2884 (CalSCAN)

GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast free pick. Running or not! Call 24/7: 1- 877529-0495. (Cal-SCAN)

PERSPECTIVE

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL

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

Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living

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

St. William’s Catholic Church

6410 Santa Lucia Road, Atascadero, CA (805) 466-0849 www. stwilliams.org Weekday Masses : 10:30 AM Saturday Vigil Mass: 4:30 PM Sunday Masses: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM Spanish

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH

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

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA

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

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER-LCMS

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

PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC

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

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

ATASCADERO FOURSQUARE

CHURCH–FATHER’S HOUSE

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

ABIDE CALVARY ATASCADERO

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

THE REVIVAL CENTER

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

COMMUNITY CHURCH OF ATASCADERO, UCC

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

Unfortunately, due to the storm last weekend, Questers had to cancel their planned rummage sale to bring in funds for the replacement of windows at the historic Printery building on Olmeda Avenue in Atacadero.

But, have no fear, the show goes on, and this Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Printery location, 6351 Olmeda Ave., there will be a rummage sale. While you’re at it, mark your calendars for the Printery Foundation’s Annual Mother’s Day Spring Market on May 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be local vendors with handcrafted items, beautiful bouquets from Questers, and the “pick-up” of the popular lasagna take-out dinners. Lasagna dinners include the lasagna, Brian’s bread and salad to serve four. Choice of

Iread some news recently that should concern everyone with half a brain. Did you know that since animals, and I’m including humans here, became domesticated their brains have shrunk in size? The news is troubling because studies have confirmed that there is a high correlation between brain size and intelligence. This means that as animals have become more domesticated they have become dumber. Horse’s brains have shrunk 16 percent since they became domesticated, pig brains have shrunk a shocking 34 percent, dog brains have shrunk somewhere between 10 and 30 percent since they were first tamed and human brains have atrophied 10 percent over the last 30,000 years or so.

In addition to being dumber, this Shrinkage Syndrome has other symptoms, including docility, floppy ears, altered tails, and smaller teeth. I certainly know my teeth have gotten smaller and my ears more floppy.

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

Pizza and rumage sales

meat sauce or vegetarian. Orders are open now and will close May 9 at 12 p.m. To place your order visit atascaderoprintery.org. Treat Mom to a delicious Mother’s Day dinner. Orders are $45 and proceeds will help support the restoration efforts of the historic Printery building.

Make yourself a big reminder note for the Atascadero Tamale Festival on May 4, from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. in downtown Atascadero. The event offers fun for all ages and is free to attend. for more information: VisitAtascadero.com/Tamale Fest

I love the Atascadero Community Band concerts, and I’m sure you do too. So, I’m sending this message from Joyce Rabellino, ABC president, so you won’t miss this one. Joyce’s note reads “Lights, Music, Action! Get ready to tap your toes and hum along as the Atascadero Community Band presents ‘On With the Show!’ a sensational concert extravaganza celebrating the timeless melodies of Broadway! Mark your calendars for this unforgettable matinee performance set to

dazzle audiences on May 5, from 3 to 5 p.m., at the Atascadero Bible Church.” The concerts are free, but any donations from this concert will benefit the Atascadero Senior Center.

This week’s recipe uses tortillas instead of pizza dough for a flavorful pizza that will please the whole family.

Southwestern Shrimp-andSausage Pizza

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 pound sweet Italian turkey sausage, casings removed and crumbled

• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1/2 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup prepared mild salsa

2 tablespoons canned chopped green chiles

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 4 (6-inch) corn tortillas

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp

cheddar cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl in oil and add onion. Cook, stirring

Brain shrinkage syndrome

You don’t have to look any further to confirm these findings than Arizona cow country, where it might take a section of ground to support one cow. In such wild and raw country, it’s common to find feral cows that haven’t been domesticated by man, and these untamed cows have used their additional brain size to outsmart man and remain in their uncivilized state, thus avoiding becoming someone’s hamburger. Often the only way to catch such cows is to send crazy cowboys, whose brains have not been shrunk by domestication, out to catch them.

We have only ourselves to blame for all this stupidity because humans are “self-domesticated.” One of the definitions of “domesticated” is “the process of making someone fond of, and good at, home life and all that it involves.” I think this means that every time a husband does the dishes because his wife told him to, his brain has shrunk and he got a little more ignorant, even if you didn’t think that was possible.

In addition to wives, man has clearly been domesticated by dogs. Every time you see a six-foot-tall guy walking a purse dog, stopping frequently

to watch as their dog poops, that man has shrunk the brain and lowered the IQ of all future generations. So guys, cut it out. Just who is the “master” here? Your dog is making you look stupid. (Even more so than usual.)

The only thing humans can do to stop this dumbing down and further brain shrinkage is to become less domesticated and stop doing what your spouse, your dog, or your government tells you to do. We must be more rebellious. Stop eating with a knife and fork and eat with your hands instead. Don’t apologize or try to hide a belch or passing gas. Stop mowing the lawn or anything else that makes you appear cultivated. And for gosh sakes, quit buying or riding in those little toy cars called EVs (electric vehicles) that look like they belong on a ride at Disneyland. Buy the biggest one-ton pickup you can find and infuriate the greenies by driving through nice, quiet neighborhoods and letting your Cummins scream at 2 a.m.

I used to make fun of those guys who walk around with jeans that look like they have five rolls of nickels in one pocket and a pipe wrench in the other, whose pants look like they could fall

frequently, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add sausage and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sausage is browned, 6-8 minutes. Add shrimp, salsa, chiles, and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until shrimp just begins to turn pink, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Spray a medium nonstick skillet with nonstick spray and set over medium-high heat. Add one tortilla and cook, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden, about 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining tortillas. Arrange tortillas on a nonstick baking sheet. Spoon sausageand-shrimp mixture onto tortillas. Sprinkle evenly with cheese. Bake until heated through and cheese melts, about 5 minutes.

Note: Consider adding a 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen corn kernels to the sausage-shrimp mixture. The sausage-shrimp mixture could also be used with flour tortillas and rolled up like a burrito. Be creative — cheers!

Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com

off at any minute. Now I realize those guys are just being less domesticated, which is a good thing. The same goes for those senior citizen females who dye their hair pink and green. Ditto those guys who are sporting Mohawks or big buns of hair on top of their head. Such actions could go a long way toward stopping future brain shrinkage. Cowboys, who have a rebellious streak anyway, should ditch the familiar grey cowboy hat and start wearing either a black one or a ball cap that’s turned around backward. Henceforth, wear only square-toed cowboy boots and stuff your jeans inside your boots that should be at least two feet tall. Cowboys should only date bad-to-the-bone cowgirls and cowgirls should quit looking for Mr. Right and instead marry their horse. (Hey, its been done before!) A horse husband will never come home drunk, eat in bed or leave you for some dimwitted lounge lizard. So people, stop brain shrinkage ... live life like a wild barn cat, and future, more intelligent generations will thank you for it. Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@ leepittsbooks.com.

Participating in your miracles

od helps those who help themselves” is probably the most often quoted phrase that is not found in the Bible. This saying is usually attributed to Ben Franklin, quoted in Poor Richard’s Almanac in 1757. In actuality, it originated from British politician Algernon Sydney in 1698 in an article titled Discourses Concerning Government.

Even though it isn’t scripture, the message rings true. God is completely capable of doing things on His own. Obviously. That is why He holds the title of “God.” He’s the only miracle-working God. But more often than not, He requires obedience

of us to participate in the miracles we ask for. Not because He needs help. I believe He wants us to prove our faith and dedication to the request. Many people fall into the trap of inactivity. People ask God for help, but then expect God to do everything Himself. They excuse this by pointing to the fact that God will provide according to His will and in His timing. However, this is not a reason for inactivity.

The first miracle that Jesus performs on Earth, at the request of His Jewish mama, He required humans to put in some effort. In John 2 He performs a crazy miracle of turning water into wine at a wedding! Before seeing the wine pour, Jesus told the servants to fill the waterpots with water. They had to do the carrying and filling.

In John 11, Jesus’ personal friend, Lazarus, has died. When He arrives at the tomb with Lazarus’ sisters and mourners,knowing full-well he is going to raise Lazarus from the dead,

Jesus tells them to “Remove the stone.” He knows that they will see the glory of God when He calls Lazarus from the tomb. But only after they sow their faith in this miracle by moving the gravestone themselves. In the Old Testament, this was also a proven theory. In 2 Kings 4, we find a widow who was about to lose her children to a creditor. The prophet Elisha asked her what she had. All she had was a jar of oil. He ordered her to go get as many vessels as she could gather from her friends and neighbors. As long as she poured from that one jar of hers, the oil kept flowing. But she had to gather, collect, and fill them herself. The power of God showed up and provided miraculously to pay off her debts!

If you are believing the Lord for a healing, you must put yourself in the place of provision. You can’t believe the Lord to cure an ailment that you are simultaneously contributing to, be it lung

cancer or obesity. If you are in need of employment, you go out and hit the pavement. Get on board and do your part; God will meet you. Even in James 4:8 He says if you draw near to Him, He will draw near to you.

Let me be very clear about something: the only area where our works will be completely useless is in regard to salvation. There is nothing we can do to work for or buy our salvation. If any organization, religion, or church comes to you and says you must add anything to what Jesus did on the cross for you, then what they are saying is what Jesus did wasn’t enough. It is unbiblical for anyone to add membership, communion, good works, even water baptism to Jesus’ sacrifice.

If that was needed, then His sacrifice was in vain.

Sarah-Kate Duran is an independent columnist

lee pitts COLUMNIST

barbie butz COLUMNIST

sarah-kate duran COLUMNIST

The Paso Robles Bearcats Boosters congratulated the competitive cheer team on their state championship with “State Champions” hoodies.

The Eagles golf team traveled to Arroyo Grande, where they were hosted at Cypress Ridge Golf Course for the last tournament of the regular season. The host Arroyo Grande team posted a season-low score en route to the win, while the Templeton Eagles, in fourth place, couldn’t keep pace with SLO, who took second place. The Eagles were led in scoring by a solid performance from Wyatt Wilson, who shot a 78.

The other scorers were Quinn Tannehill at 80, Rex Koen at 83, Owen Bousman at 84, Luke Davis at 85, and Luke Cherry at 91.

The Greyhounds boys volleyball team celebrated its seniors, shown from left: Skylar Martin, Alex Ring, Mason Degnan, David Lines, Rio Leschinsky, Zac Anderson, and Dane Lewis.

The Paso Robles Bearcats Boosters congratulated the girls soccer team on its league title with “Sunset League Champions” T-shirts.

Templeton runner Josh Bell had another record-breaking performance, this time at the Arcadia Invitational, where some of the fastest runners in the nation faced off. Josh’s 8:42.79 was not only a school record but also a CIF Central Section record. It was the third-fastest in California this year and is currently the 17th-fastest in the U.S. He is just 8 seconds off the national record.

The Greyhounds boys tennis team currently has an undefeated season and are the 2024 Ocean League champions.

The Bearcats celebrated their senior beach volleyball players, shown from left: Ashlee Wescom, Skylar McEntire, and Kenzie Cobb. All photos contributed

The JV softball team crushed Santa Maria 16-4. They are undefeated in league play and 5-1 for the season. Their next game is Friday at Cabrillo High School. Sophomore Gabi Ramsey ran a 5:19 1,600-meter time to